Many of the Wiccan traditions are very well-known and well-established, such as the Gardnerian, Alexandrian, Reclaiming, or Dianic traditions. These trads have a history and documented background, giving them a strong sense of authenticity. And to be clear, I’m using the term “traditions” in the sense of different paths within Wicca, much like Christian denominations. I don’t mean “traditions” as in activities and rituals that they do regularly.
As I have spent time looking for regional web pages from across the country, I’ve discovered a number of new and growing traditions. My listing of them here doesn’t mean I endorse their practices or consider them to be ‘authentic’ or ‘official’ in any way.
Sometimes it’s difficult to really tell what is unique or different about a tradition when reading a short synopsis. Differences can be quite subtle. Further research into the beliefs, rituals and other practices would be necessary to really isolate what makes a trad stand out. Nonetheless, these smaller traditions have stuck out in my own mind for whatever reasons. If nothing else, these traditions may give you some ideas on how to structure your own practices.
American Tradition of the Goddess
Known as AmTrad, this Wiccan tradition is found mostly in the northern part of Texas. Their focus is on the triple aspects of the God and Goddess, as well as our connection with the Earth. Creativity is encouraged among its members with respect to ritual creation. This trad lists 17 covens on their website but many links are no longer working, or list themselves as “retired”
Assembly of the Sacred Wheel
The practices within this tradition are rooted in Ceremonial (Western) Magick, the Kabbalah as well as more typical Wiccan beliefs. The structure of the Assembly is based on the 12 houses of the Zodiac, with member covens (and solitaries) fitting within each house. This tradition was founded in the mid 80s and is particularly active in Delaware. The are 13 covens in the Assembly at the time of this writing.
Unfortunately, as I worked to produce this article, I found that many new traditions were not truly active, with out-of-date pages and no participating covens. I suppose it’s one thing to devise a program of study, rituals, beliefs, and practices. It’s entirely another thing to make it all work and thrive in the real world.
Even so, I figured I’d post what I’ve found. Even just reading about these few new Wiccan traditions can illustrate how varied the Craft can be.