The Circle is a framework of spiritual teachings and practices that are used by individuals for their personal path. There is no dogma or specific requirements in the Circle of the Dark Mother (other than to be kind to others and respectful of all beliefs). We are a Dark Gnostic tradition that uses both gnosis and reason to direct our path. We use meditation and a kabbalistic framework in much of our workings Every practitioner has the freedom to use the tradition however they choose. We embrace every spiritual path as valid and able to be incorporated into our teachings.
When deciding on a name we wanted to capture the idea of people who are equals coming together to study and practice for transformation in both themselves and the world. We chose Circle of the Dark Mother because dark mother deities represent the power of change. Circulos Tenebris Matrem Arcanas means Circle of the Dark and Mysterious Mother - this is our Inner Order of the group.
Church of All Worlds
Circle of the Dark Mother is also a proto-nest in Church of All Worlds.
The CAW is the first Pagan Church founded in the US. It was incorporated in 1968 by Tim Zell (now Oberon Zell) and recognized by the IRS in 1970. Oberon read Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein and was so inspired by the vision of a Nest — a close-knit group seeking a deep knowing of each other — that he brought his vision alive with the CAW. He continued his vision of forming community by founding Green Egg Magazine and the Mythic Images statuary company.
We express our connections with each other with our most sacred rite of Watersharing. On a general level, it signifies our connection in the web of life. As we grow closer, it can be a reflection of a chosen kinship.