Year One 

We now offer two programs within the Apple Branch.  One is for women only and has been in existence for several years.  This year we are beginning a mixed group - that is, we will welcome men and those women whose desire is to work in mixed gender Circles.  There will be opportunities for both groups to work together but that option will remain one of personal choice.

Each student must make a commitment to complete assignments and attend the 13 Lunar rituals.  Sabbats ought to be observed as well – but in all cases – communication is vital.  Certainly exceptions can be made and we wish to be flexible – but attendance is a measure of commitment that is watched.  The list below reflects areas of study a student may wish to explore but is not limited to just these.  Each may self-design their own course of study tailoring it to meet the goals as a priestess or priest.   

A good amount of the reading list must be completed.  Some students may not be able to complete all of this in one year.  That is fine!  What is important is the commitment made, goals set, and accomplished.  Time may be self-paced.      

Year Two

The Student must commit to the entire year – and each on-line Moon is required attendance.   Further study on areas of choice, monitored study – reports and papers are written.    

Year Three 

Solar Rites – each on the Day appropriate

Each of the students will facilitate for the Lunar rituals in their third year for those who are in second year.  Third Year Students work with me in setting goals and outline the entire year and will include public ritual at least four times and teach on-going classes – creating – setting up and teaching in location of their choice.  At all classes and rituals they hand out survey sheets to be completed by those attending – with comments and questions being answered about content – performance and energy of rites.  Goals must be met and on time.  Students are encouraged to set up an on-going study group so that a group is available to work with.  They are all informed that this is a part of her training.  They also help with the teaching of first year students.  Each student is encouraged to volunteer to do rituals for festivals and events in the community.  Further study on areas of choice.  Reading list should be relatively completed.  Each student must do public service work as a part of their commitment to Goddess.  This work is to be documented as well.  Time frames are optional – it is a schedule worked out between teacher and student – goals are set – commitments made and followed through.  These time frames are minimums set for completion.  The process could take much longer depending on how much time each person has available to devote to the work. 

By the time the work is completed, each student will have done the work of the Tradition and will be considered for ordination.  It depends on the level of commitment and what plans are made for doing the work.  Priestesses and Priests who have hived off from The Branch, establish their own guidelines and teaching policies, which may even include calling themselves by another name, or they may establish their own tradition, independent of The Branch.  That is the beauty of autonomy.  

Fees are $30.00 per month for the on-line studies.  The first three months are "pay as you go."  After that each student is required to pay for three months at a time.

Those students who are interested in ordination must find a way to meet with me at least once before completion of studies.

For those students who work with me in person, guidelines are a bit different.  Also, requirements for completion are always dependent on what knowledge you bring with you.  We have some women who join us who are fully trained in another tradition and now seek to learn ours.  Past studies are certainly accepted.  What is critical to acceptance is a desire to work with the Sacred Trees.

If you are interested in working with us, please let us hear from you.  

Many blessings

Bendis