Ranks and Degrees
Blue Star is unusual for having a five-part rank system, as opposed to the three degree system of most initiatory Wiccan traditions.
Dedication is the first rite of passage within the Blue Star tradition, and indicates a commitment to a Pagan spirituality generally and a loose commitment to the tradition specifically. Those who have been through this ceremony are referred to as "Dedicants".
Neophyte marks an intermediary step between Dedication and Initiation, and indicates both a level of facility with Blue Star practice and theory, and a willingness to take on increased responsibility within the tradition. Neophyte differs from the other ranks in being seen as a preparation for Priesthood, as opposed to an end in and of itself. After this rite of passage, the person is referred to as a "Neophyte".
First Degree Initiation is the ritual through which someone enters the clergy within Blue Star. Someone who has attained their First Degree is referred to as a priest, priestess, or simply "initiate."
Second Degree recognizes further training and commitment within Blue Star beyond that of the First Degree. It is usually, although not always, the time when one takes a leadership role in a coven, preparatory to "hiving" or establishing an independent coven.
Third Degree is given to those people who are judged by their teachers to be capable of leaving the coven that they were trained in and taking full responsibility for creating a new coven of their own.
Read more about this topic: Blue Star Wicca
Famous quotes containing the words ranks and, ranks and/or degrees:
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—Frances E. Willard (1839–1898)
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—Marie Winn (20th century)
“Gradually we come to admit that Shakespeare understands a greater extent and variety of human life than Dante; but that Dante understands deeper degrees of degradation and higher degrees of exaltation.”
—T.S. (Thomas Stearns)