Alexandrian Tradition

Wiccan Tradition
Tradition Name	Alexandrian Tradition
Founder Name	Alex Sanders
Date Founded	1960 (approx)
Lineage	Traditional Witch Cult (disputed)
Date Disbanded	N/A
Type	Initiatory Mystery Tradition
Country	Britian

The Alexandrian Tradition was founded by Alex and Maxine Sanders in the 1960's. The name is taken from the Library at Alexandria which is considered to be the first of it's kind - a repositary of knowledge from all over the world. Sanders claimed that he was originally initiated by his Grandmother and that his practise was therefore hereditory, with links to the Witch Cult of Europe. While there is no proof to substantiate this, it is known that he was initiated into Gardnerian Wicca in 1963, before establishing his own tradition and therefore his claims are unlikely.

Alex Sanders was introduced to esoteric ideas from a young age, and went on to study ceremonial magick. As a result, this tradition has many influences drawn from ceremonial magick. It is very similar to the Gardnerian Tradition, except for a few minor differences when it comes to associations of the elements.

Initiatory System

Alexandrians stress the importance of initiation, and that in order to become Wiccan one must complete this vital rite of passage.

Neophyte

Prior to becoming a neophyte, the existing coven members would have identified the person as a good fit with their group and would have subtly have interviewed the prospective member through inviting him/her to open rituals or other casual gatherings. Then the official offer to join the coven would be made and, if accepted, the member would become a Neophyte (or Dedicant) in order to start studying without being bound by oaths to the group. This initial phase may last a year or longer, depending on the person. Once deemed ready by the High Priestess, the neophyte will now have the option to undertake the first degree of initiation and make a more serious commitment to the path.

Third Degree

This is the final stage of initiation whereby the initiate would branch off to found their own coven.

Deities

The Alexandrian Tradition covens often work with Egyptian Deities as a basis, but would also work with those of Greek and Roman Pantheons as well.

Prominant Members

• Janet Farrar

Stewart Farrar

Maxine Sanders