FAQ | Temple Of The Roses

How do I get involved?

New members begin as Seekers, with access to public rituals, online classes, and discussion spaces at their own pace.

Those who wish to pursue deeper study may apply to join the Inner Court — a hybrid study group limited to thirteen members, known as Cowans. This year-and-a-day program explores Wiccan philosophy, ritual practice, and ethics through structured study and mentorship.

Upon completing the Inner Court, each Cowan participates in a Naming Ceremony, marking their passage into the role of Dedicant. This recognition affirms commitment to the path and formal membership within the Temple.

Dedicants serve the Temple through volunteer participation in rituals, community events, and mentorship, fulfilling the requirement of service as part of their preparation for ordination.

Ordination as Priest or Priestess is determined by the Board of Trustees and requires:

Successful completion of the ordination exam (essay-style questions)
Demonstrated service as a Dedicant
A formal ordination ceremony

This process ensures that ordination represents not only study but also lived experience, ethical maturity, and dedication to community service.

When the Patreon membership model launches, joining will be as simple as selecting a tier aligned with your current stage—Seeker or Cowan (by application and interview, if available) —and engaging at your own pace.

What makes the Temple Wiccan?

The Temple follows the central principles and ritual forms of Wicca, including the eight Sabbats, circle casting, and the invocation of the elements and deities.

Our guiding ethic is the Wiccan Rede: “An it harm none.” This principle serves as the foundation of our spiritual, educational, and community work.

What is the Temple’s focus?

The Temple of the Roses is an Eclectic Wiccan temple and clergy collective devoted to study, service, and sacred community. We draw from a range of Wiccan and nature-based traditions while maintaining an organized structure for spiritual education and ritual practice. Rather than aligning with a single lineage or oath-bound tradition, the Temple emphasizes accessible learning, balanced devotion, and integrity in practice.

What types of gatherings do you offer?

The Temple hosts Sabbat and Esbat rituals, classes, workshops, and mentoring sessions in hybrid format—both online and in person at sites across Maryland, including Southern Maryland, Columbia, Arbutus, and Marriottsville.
Our work blends traditional Craft foundations with creative liturgy, celebrating the cycles of nature and the Divine in all its expressions.

How does membership work?

Membership will soon transition to a Patreon-based model for simplicity and accessibility.
Supporters will be able to join at different levels corresponding to Seeker, Dedicant, and Priest participation.
Each tier includes access to classes, rituals, and mentoring, with additional privileges for voting members and clergy candidates.

(Existing members will be guided through the transition when the new system launches.)

What about ordination?

Ordination within the Temple is optional and considered on a case-by-case basis. It recognizes demonstrated study, participation, and readiness for spiritual service rather than automatic advancement. Ordination is open to people of all genders and identities who feel called to leadership in ministry and ritual.

Our coursework draws primarily from Scott Cunningham’s Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner and Raymond Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft, along with original materials developed by Temple leadership.

What deities does the Temple honor?

The Temple does not elevate any single deity above others. Members are free to connect with the Divine through the names, forms, and symbols that speak most clearly to them.

Is the Temple’s website complete?

The Temple of the Roses website is currently under construction as we update our materials, membership structure, and class content. Some pages may still be in progress while new information is added.

If you have questions about membership, study programs, or upcoming events, please contact us at templeoftheroses@gmail.com.

We appreciate your patience as we continue building a space that reflects the spirit and integrity of the Temple.