The Church of the Knotted Ash entered into it's legal existence on June 1, 2009 by filing our Certificate of Incorporation with the Erie County Clerk in the state of New York. As a church we are automatically granted exempt status by the IRS, however, we have decided to file for the documentation that shows our exempt status. That process is currently underway.
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The governing body of the Church of the Knotted Ash is called the Magisterium. The Magisterium is an elected body of church members that are responsible for the government of our church. The Magisterium will consist of two (2) Elders, of which one or both shall be Clan Heads, two (2) Third Degree Clan Members, one (1) Second Degree Clan Member, and (1) First Degree Clan Member. The First Degree will be limited as a non-voting director of the Magisterium.
Directors will hold their term based on their degree. Elders for four (4) years, Third Degrees for three (3) years, Second Degrees for two (2) years, and First Degrees for one (1) year. Elections are held at our annual retreat
The degree system of the Church of the Knotted Ash is based on a traditional five tier system. The levels are Dedicant, First Degree, Second Degree, Third Degree, and Elder. All members enter as Dedicants and can choose from three training options; Forever Firsts, High Priest/High Priestess, or Ordained Clergy.
Within our system Third Degree Members may also choose to take additional training to become legally Ordained Clergy. Ordained Clergy are legally able to sign certificates of marriage, birth, and death as allowed within their state. In addition to further training, our Clergy applicants are required to complete 75 hours of community service, complete a written thesis, and pass an examination before ordination.
Lineage is a term often heard in the traditional circles of Wicca and Witchcraft. Lineage refers to the direct linear descent of initiation down from Gerald Gardner and as such would only pertain to Gardnerian groups.
We are not a Gardnerian group, therefore, our lineage does not follow the traditional Gardnerian line since many of our forbearers have changed paths in the course of their spiritual growth. Traditional or not, spiritually and physically we can link ourselves back to the birth of modern Witchcraft and Gerald Gardner through initiations and elevations bestowed on those who have guided us. Each of our Clan Heads have a direct and distinct link that ties us to the path we walk.
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As our Church and Clan continue to grow new covens are born. When a member of the Church of the Knotted Ash has reached his or her Third Degree they may choose to form a Coven. Coven membership is by invitation only.
The Church of the Knotted Ash holds an annual retreat each August in Letchworth State Park. All members of the Church are expected to attend the retreat as this is where we hold our annual meeting and share in a weekend of magick, ritual, learning, and community.
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