Apple and Vine - Coven Charter & Bylaws
We are a small group of clergy – Priestesses of the Craft – dedicated to providing time and space for the worship of the Gods. We wish to help those of our community find fellowship and communion with the Gods and each other.
Membership
Membership in this Circle shall not be denied on the basis of race, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, or political views. The following outline of how this Circle is organized can, and indeed should be, changed as the needs of the Circle changes. The priestesses shall review these guidelines no less than once a year to ascertain if they still fulfill the needs of the circle. The Circle wishes to create a family-like atmosphere among themselves on a more intimate basis than the outside fellowship and community of the Pagan and Pagan-friendly people in the area. Therefore, the Circle shall consist of those whom the feel we are ready and willing to bond with in an intimate and familial way.
The Council
The Council – Currently, this Circle is being led by three priestesses who function as the Circle Council and who share an interest in providing time and space for worship and fostering fellowship and community among the Pagan and Pagan-friendly of Middle Tennessee. In the event that one or more of these priestesses is no longer able, or desire to be, a part of this Circle the structure and existence of The Council shall be reviewed and changed as needed. (For instance, someone of sufficient rank is available and desirous of stepping in, or if the Council needs to be disbanded and reformed as something else.)
The Council makes ALL decisions. All members of the Circle get a VOICE, but only the Council gets a VOTE. It is important to note here that when the Council are casting their votes, they should listen to the other voices in the group - no one likes to feel like they’re being ignored - if anyone has a strong objection, they will be given the chance to explain. There will be no changes unless The Council has reached a consensus. Any member of the Circle can request that a subject be tabled until further discussion can happen. This discussion can take no more than two weeks. Discussions can take place in person or through email. When all sides have had a chance to present their opinions, The Council will vote. If for any reason discussions are not completed in that time, The Council will decide among themselves whether or not they feel they have enough information to vote, or if they should extend the two week timetable.
The Council makes ALL decisions. All members of the Circle get a VOICE, but only the Council gets a VOTE. It is important to note here that when the Council are casting their votes, they should listen to the other voices in the group - no one likes to feel like they’re being ignored - if anyone has a strong objection, they will be given the chance to explain. There will be no changes unless The Council has reached a consensus. Any member of the Circle can request that a subject be tabled until further discussion can happen. This discussion can take no more than two weeks. Discussions can take place in person or through email. When all sides have had a chance to present their opinions, The Council will vote. If for any reason discussions are not completed in that time, The Council will decide among themselves whether or not they feel they have enough information to vote, or if they should extend the two week timetable.