I. Who is eligible to join the NW Coven list?

Any member of the main Nightworld/Circle Daybreak list who is interested in learning about and exchanging opinions on witchcraft, especially on LJS’ portrayal of witchcraft in her books.

II. What is the purpose of the NW Coven list?

(a.) To discuss LJ Smith’s portrayal of witchcraft in TSC and NW books.

This is the main reason this list was created. There is so much to discuss concerning LJS' portrayal of witchcraft that can't be discussed on the main list. For example, the fact that LJS does not portray her witchcraft as a religion, but more as a birthright or a talent the character possesses, or the comparisons between her witch characters from TSC and the NW books.

(b.) To teach and learn about the various aspects and practices of the Craft.

Just like the main NW list has a book of the month to discuss, we plan to have a main topic for each month. For instance, one month we could focus on stones, and the next month the topic might be herbs. And of course, we don’t have to stick to a strict time limit. If the topic needs to go on for another month, it could. Also, we hope to have weekly lessons for all three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced, so we can all learn from each other.

(c.) To ask and answer questions regarding the Craft.

Although we will have specific weekly or monthly topics, the list will always be open to whatever Craft-related questions the members may have that they may need to know the answer to right away.

III. Are there any subjects that will not be allowed on this list? The following subjects are banned from the NW Coven list:

(a.) Satanism

This subject will not be allowed on the list for various reasons, not the least of which is that most people have misconceptions about it and fear it. In the long run, it would cause more problems to discuss it than to not discuss it. Besides, most Wiccans and pagans do not recognize Satan as an entity anyway. They view him as a myth. And most importantly, Satanism is not mentioned anywhere in LJS’ books.

(b.) Off-topic subjects

This list was created specifically for members who are interested in the Craft to discuss LJS’ portrayal of it in her books, and to share their ideas, opinions and experiences with each other. This is not the place to gossip about your boyfriend, complain about the bad day you just had, discuss the cool video you just saw, or any other subject that is not directly related to the topics on this list.

(c.) Bashing anyone else’s opinions or beliefs

This topic is a volatile one, even among like-minded people. Even though there are many schools of belief in witchcraft, wicca, paganism, shamanism, etc., there are still practitioners who believe their way is the only right way. And we don't want any fighting or flaming on this list. We respect that there are people in the club who are strict Wiccans or follow another specific path, but since LJS preaches tolerance, we should try to make sure that this is an eclectic list, and a place where everyone’s opinions will be respected.

This includes pulling rank on other members of the list. It will not be allowed! No saying, "Well I've been a High Priestess of (fill in the blank) for 5 years now, so I know what I'm talking about and you don't" or "I've been a witch for 3-5 years so my opinion is right and yours is wrong." That type of attitude only leads to arguments and flame wars.

(d.) Asking for/exchanging any type of spell onlist. Especially any type of spell that can be used to manipulate the free will of another person (love, revenge, etc.)

First of all, practitioners tend to be a bit possessive when it comes to their spells. Spells are very personal and individual things and most practitioners will not give away their spells. Not to mention that spells have more power and effectiveness when they are created by the person casting them.

We will, however, give general advice on how to create your own spells, information on which types of spells (elemental, herb, crystal, etc.) work best for different situations, and how incantations are created.

Secondly, we expect to receive a lot of email to the list and we do not want a ton of posts asking for spells filling up our inboxes. Most of us are on several different mailing lists and already receive close to 100 emails a day. Plus, emails asking for spells would override whatever lesson or discussion is currently taking place.

The part about no spells that can be used to manipulate others should be fairly obvious. It goes against the Wiccan Rede, and all other rules of conduct concerning magick, to manipulate another person’s free will or choice. Not to mention the fact that anything you send out comes back on you three times over. How would you like someone causing you to do something you didn't choose to do?

For example, creating or using a spell to make a specific person love you is not allowed. But creating or using a spell to help draw more love into your life is acceptable.

Here’s another example: Creating or using a spell to make an employer give you a certain job is not allowed. But creating or using a spell to increase your confidence so you can win the job on your own is acceptable.

(e.) Writing to the list just to ask why the list has been so quiet lately, is not allowed.

If you think the list has been too quiet, then ask a question or bring up a new topic. But make sure the question or topic is Craft-related in some way. You could also share an experience you've had, an interesting historical fact you've found, a spell you've tried, etc.

IV. Are there any specific rules regarding Subject lines when posting to the list?

When posting any information or questions to the list, always identify the list and the topic of your post.

The same rule applies whether posting information, personal experience, or questions to the list. Always identify the list and the specific topic of your post. For example: "NW Coven: Question: Crystals," "NW Coven: Scrying Info," "NW Coven: Experience: Yule Ritual." Never post with an obscure Subject line, like, "Help" or "Timing?" or "I have a question."

First, let us know that this email is for the NW Coven list (because a lot of us belong to many different lists) so that your message will not accidently get deleted. And, secondly, let us know what you need help with, or which type of ritual or spell you need info on regarding timing, or what your question is about. That way, we know immediately which posts apply to our interests and specialties. It saves time and confusion, and you'll probably have a better chance of getting a response.

This NW Coven FAQ was written by Hestia.