The Temple of Witchcraft - Introduction

Welcome to The Temple of Witchcraft Study Group!
Our magic circle is a sacred space for those who share a profound love for nature and are curious to learn about the secrets of witchcraft. Together, we will explore the foundations of magic using "The Temple of Inner Witchcraft" (1st book in the series) by Christopher Penczak as our guide (use the updated 2021 edition if possible). The book can be purchased for €12 (ebook) to €30 (paperback), and it’s an excellent starting point for everyone interested in witchcraft, covering the core principles of magic such as intention setting, inner visualization, energy direction, and magical mindset. Beginners aspiring to become witches, magicians, sorcerers, shamans, or druids, as well as seasoned practitioners of witchcraft seeking to broaden and deepen their knowledge, are all warmly invited.

We will meet for two hours every two to three weeks to discuss chapters from the book and engage in exercises over an eight-month period. Each session will include breathwork, grounding, centering, setting up a magical circle, and a meditation exercise to practice the teachings. Afterward, there will be time to share food, engage in conversation, and build connections.

At the end of the 1st book, we will perform a self-initiation ritual to become 1st degree witches or witchers. We will continue with the 2nd and 3rd book of the Temple of Witchcraft series and learn everything about spellcasting, rituals, and spiritual journeys.

When: Every other Saturday starting from 5:30 PM. The circle takes place from 6 PM to 8 PM (please make sure to arrive beforehand). Our 1st meeting is on December 14th, 2024. You can join at any time, as long as you read the missed chapters and do the proposed exercises beforehand.

Expected dates:
14th of December 2024 (getting to know each other)
4th of January 2025 (chapter 1 & 2)
18th of January 2025 (chapter 3 & 4)
1st of February 2025 (chapter 5)
15th of February 2025 (chapter 6)
1st of March 2025 (chapter 7)
15th of March 2025 (chapter 8)
29th of March 2025 (chapter 9)
12th of April 2025 (chapter 10)
26th of April 2025 (chapter 11)
10th of May 2025 (chapter 12)
24th of May 2025 (chapter 13)
7th of June 2025 (chapter 14)
21st of June 2025 (chapter 15)
5th of July 2025 (chapter 16)
19th of July 2025 (chapter 17)

Where: We will meet at Kaffee Alt-Wien for the 1st circle to get to know each other (please order drinks and food to "pay" the inn for the reservation). For the 2nd circle, we will initially meet at my place in Oberlaa (10th district of Vienna). The address will be shared once you have been accepted into the group. For the following circles during autumn and winter, anyone who wishes can offer their home and host the others (October to April). The idea is to create a rotating space of connection, where everyone who is able can contribute by hosting the magic circle. For the circles in spring and summer, we will meet outdoors at Kurpark Oberlaa (May to September).

What: At the 1st circle we will get to know each other and share our reasons for being interested in witchcraft. Please get a copy of the book and read the foreword and introduction beforehand. At the 2nd circle, we will discuss chapters 1 & 2 of the book. At the 3rd circle, will address chapters 3 & 4. After that each circle will focus on one chapter (5-17) and the proposed exercises.

Who: Anyone interested in personal growth and the study of witchcraft is welcome. Our goal is to create a regular group of 13 people who will form bonds of friendships that may hopefully last a lifetime.

Why: Please answer the questions carefully when joining the group. It will help you reflect on your motivations and give me insight into the group composition.

How: The circle meetings and transmission of magic are free of charge - as they should be - for historical, ethical, and spiritual reasons. However, I kindly ask that you bring some (vegan or vegetarian) food from the 2nd meeting onwards to share with everyone after the session. This is our way of thanking the host for offering their place and it will surely be greatly appreciated by all :P

Ethos: We practice magic for our highest good while harming none (white magic). We value human virtues such as fairness, honesty, loyalty, respect, compassion, and integrity. If you want to practice magic for personal gain at the expense of others (black magic), please look for another group.

Disclaimer: Building a solid foundation in witchcraft and magic requires time and dedication. If you're only interested in doing the shiny stuff right away such as spells and rituals without knowing why and what you are doing or if you're here for some movie magic, our group might not be for you. We may start slow, but we will likely become far more powerful along the way! :)

Secret: Reading a book takes time and we all lead busy lives. I personally use the Kindle app on my phone and listen to the book during commutes, workouts, or walks - this really works great for me!

All the best,
Ken