ABOUT THE TEMPLE

Our Story

Founded by High Priestess Elder Starr RavenHawk in 2003 and officially established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2007 by High Priestess Elder Starr RavenHawk and High Priestess Elder Luna Rojas, the NYC Wiccan Family Temple is a Nature-Based Spirituality temple dedicated to nurturing spiritual growth, building community, and preserving the traditions of Wicca and contemporary Paganism.

The Temple fulfills its mission through regular Esbat and Sabbat celebrations, educational programs offered by the WFT Academy of Pagan Studies, community service, and public events throughout New York City.

Our community gathers throughout the year for Full Moon and New Moon Esbats, the eight Sabbats of the Wheel of the Year, WitchsFest USA, and other seasonal celebrations and educational events. We also maintain relationships with Pagan communities across the United States and around the world.

Whether you are an experienced practitioner, new to being a Witch, or simply interested in learning more about contemporary Pagan traditions, we welcome you to explore our community.


Our Purpose

The NYC Wiccan Family Temple exists to:

  • Foster the evolution of the Witch spirit through the study and practice of the Craft of the Wise.

  • Honor the Lady and the Lord, the Earth, the seasons, and all living beings.

  • Celebrate the Sabbats, Esbats, and other rites of passage.

  • Teach Theology, WitchCraft, Pagan traditions, and Earth-based spirituality.

  • Support practitioners in their spiritual growth and personal development.

  • Educate the public about Witches and contemporary Paganism.

  • Promote environmental stewardship and respect for Nature.

  • Prepare and ordain qualified clergy to serve their communities.

  • Build and strengthen a welcoming Pagan community through education, fellowship, and service.


Our Community

Being part of a community is an essential component of the learning experience at the NYC Wiccan Family Temple.

By bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and spiritual experiences, we create opportunities for lasting friendships, mutual support, and shared learning. Through rituals, celebrations, classes, and service, our members grow not only as practitioners but also as a community connected by shared values and respect for one another.


OUR TRADITION

The Wiccan Family Tradition is an eclectic path that harmoniously blends teachings and practices from many Wiccan, Pagan, and Nature-based traditions.

Rather than following a single lineage, our tradition draws inspiration from multiple paths while encouraging each practitioner to develop a meaningful and responsible spiritual practice grounded in study, experience, and respect for Nature.

We welcome Witches of all traditions and experience levels and believe that lifelong learning is an essential part of the Craft.

Our tradition emphasizes:

  • Dedications rather than initiations.

  • Lifelong learning through study and practice.

  • Family participation in spiritual life whenever possible.

  • Respect for Nature and environmental stewardship.

  • Healthy living in body, mind, and spirit.

  • Service to our communities.

  • Respect for the many paths within contemporary Paganism.


OUR BELIEFS

Articles of Faith

Members of the NYC Wiccan Family Temple identify as Witches, Wiccans, Pagans, and followers of the Old Religions, the Craft of the Wise and many other names.

We accept the principle:

“An it harm none, do as ye will.”

as one of our ethical ideals.

We honor the natural rhythms of the Earth through observances of the Sabbats and Esbats and recognize the sacredness of Nature and all living beings.

We believe the Creative Power of the Universe manifests through both the feminine and masculine, each equally essential and complementary.

We view religion, magick, and wisdom as inseparable aspects of living in harmony with Nature and with one another.

We respect the beliefs and spiritual experiences of others and value courtesy, tolerance, and mutual respect within our community.


EDUCATION

The WFT Academy of Pagan Studies was established in 2007 to provide structured education in WitchCraft, Pagan traditions, some knowledge of Wicca practised today and related Earth-based spiritual practices.

The Academy offers opportunities for both personal study and group learning, encouraging students to deepen their knowledge through direct experience, ritual practice, and ongoing education.

The Temple also prepares qualified members for ordination as licensed Interfaith Ministers and supports those called to serve their communities through ministry and religious leadership.


COMMUNITY SERVICE

Service is an important part of the Temple’s mission.

Our community supports charitable initiatives, Prison Outreach, public education, and efforts that foster understanding of Wicca and contemporary Paganism.

We believe that spiritual practice extends beyond ritual and includes caring for one another, supporting those in need, protecting the natural world, and contributing positively to the wider community.