Our first guest speaker at our 3rd Annual Spring Luncheon, was Deena Hartray-Butta, Arch-Priestess from the Fellowship of Isis (FOI). Deena’s Lyceum serves the north side of Chicago area. Touching on a few points, she wove the FOI’s spiritual philosophy in her exploration of clergy; while at the same time honoring passed-over Craft priestesses, Donna Cole Schultz and Vicki Carlson.

Speaking about FOI clergy ordination, Deena shared that “…clergy works within the Goddess or God/Goddess of their own faith. Every human, animal, etc., is an offspring of the Mother Goddess’s Divine Family of Life.” Lady Olivia, the founder of the FOI sees, “…service is the bottom line”, for FOI clergy, together with “spirituality, compassion, intellect, philanthropy, and strength”.

On Donna and Vicky: They “displayed a generous spirit, that transcended partisan lines, nourishing our spirits with respect, all the while supporting us.” They were both FOI members, embracing the FOI’s vision through their work within the community. Their energy seemed to be limitless, “everywhere you went, there they were!” She also felt they demonstrated “fairness, courtesy, open-mindedness, and respect, yet were not afraid to say what was on their mind”. Showing the personal touch is vital in making other’s feel connected, elements that Deena felt they both had in abundance.

Deena considers “service and multi-tasking” and important twin roles for today’s clergy, And believes that “clergy gives direct guidance, not just information”.

Regina Stovall, High Priestess of Sacred Spirit Temple and the founder of Witch Hat Society, serves the North West Indiana area. She feels that Linda Batwinski’s impact in the community had a “rippling effect”.

She gave a slide show presentation, sprinkled with fond memories of festivals, fellowship, and area leaders such as Jack Armstrong, Herman Enderly, Carol Stowe, Nancy Machin, Richard Clark, and others.

“Linda loved to party…Yule was her favorite time of year”, recalled Regina. She and others remembered how Linda “worked the phone”, keeping connected without the use of a car or computer with the entire Illiana community.

The changes in the Wiccan community have been profound, as the years have shown, with one priestess observing “People don’t have the time to be dedicated in a coven, with their busy schedules.”

Area clergy were divided on the impact that the Internet has had on spiritual relationships and covens. Some felt it was a blessing, allowing for an immediate connection, via online rituals and groups. Others felt it threatens the integrity of Wicca, “…anyone can claim titles and training now, without meeting face-to-face.”

Deena sees the Internet as an “electronic campfire”, allowing spiritual work to continue, despite rising gas prices, the harsh winters, and the fluctuating economy.

Regina stressed that “quality over growth” was the most important element to accepting new seekers for coven training.

The questions that were raised during Deena and Regina’s presentations seem to be ones that call for constant evaluation and reflection. For those that missed our Symposium or wish to share their thoughts…we invite you to BLOG IT!

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