Authored by Stacy Hensley in Paranormal 
Published on 10-18-2009

Modern day witches do exist. But you won’t find them wearing a pointy black hat, riding a broomstick, or turning anyone into a frog. The media has had a big hand in helping people to have a better understanding of modern day witches. Television shows like “Charmed” have helped show people that witches do not have to be evil. This show was about Wiccan sisters who used their magical powers to help fight evil. This helped to show people that having different beliefs does not mean that a witch is evil or is involved in satanism.

Modern day witches may practice different forms of divination. They often participate in altered states of consciousness, such as trances. Magical spells, incantations, and rituals are also performed by some modern day witches.

Wicca

Many modern day witches are Wiccan. Wicca is a neo-pagan religion that is based on nature. They may choose to practice withcraft alone or in a group environment. Groups of witches that practice together form what is known as covens. These covens are normally led by a High Priest or Priestess. Covens are not cults. Anyone that joins a coven is free to leave at anytime without having to worry about negative consequences. Members are not encouraged to isolate themselves from their friends or families.

Wiccans do not force their ways on children. Parents who are Wiccan may share their beliefs with their children, but the children are free to choose their own religious path. No one under the age of 18 is allowed into Wiccan circles. The children of Wiccans may, however, be allowed to attend seasonal festivals such as “Yule”, which is what most people know as Christmas.

Myths about Witches

Myth-Females are called witches, and males are called warlocks.

Fact-Men and women practicing witchcraft are both called witches.

Myth-Witches use drugs during rituals.

Fact-Modern day witches may drink alcohol at a festival, ritual or celebration, but witches do not use drugs in their rituals.

Myth-Rituals are performed that involve sexual acts.

Fact-Most witches are not promiscuous, and sex is not a part of the rituals they perform.

There are a lot of different types of witchcraft. Not all of those that practice witchcraft call themselves a witch. Many religions have close ties to witchcraft, although their beliefs and practices may be very different from Wicca. Here are just a few of these other religions:

• Shamanism
• “Native” or Indiginous
• Voodoo
• Santeria
• Discordian
• Odinism
• Dianic

Modern day witches are caring and powerful witches that try to help their communities by offering guidance and help when needed. They do not try and force their beliefs on others, and ask for this same respect in return. Encouraging people to ask questions, is a way for those that practice witchcraft to help others understand their ways and beliefs.