SOURCE : Wicca as a self-directed, non-initiatory path
In recent decades, this creative blend of ceremonial magic, 19th-century romanticism, and Celtic custom has enjoyed a synergistic relationship with feminism and the women’s spirituality movement. Wicca is a goddess-focused religion, and this has made it attractive to those exploring alternatives to patriarchal theology and culture. Wicca is non-hierarchical; there is no denominational headquarters or bureaucracy; each coven is autonomous. Consequently, there is no official control over the use of the name “Wicca”, and disagreements do arise about how the term should be used. Wicca, as originally conceived and practiced, is a mystery religion. One becomes a Wiccan not by endorsing a creed or paying membership dues, but by experiencing a sequence of progressive initiations under the direction of other Wiccans. Therefore there is some contention regarding the status of people who perhaps read a book or website about Wicca, decide they like it, and then identify themselves as Wiccans.
