I have been a witch for over ten years now. I have had my own coven at one time and have been a member of a few. I found that I like be a solitary witch better. One can do what one wants without problems such as pedantic, pontificating coven members or any power tripping individuals. I find solitary work to be very satisfying and very personal. I do however have pagan friends and will on occasion do a ritual with a priest who I am very close to. Other than that I enjoy being a solitaire.
Blessed Be
Belladonna

Actually, I have several like minded people in my life that I celebrate holidays with. When it comes to magick, I usually do best alone. Magick is very personal to me. That does not mean I won't work with a group, I will. But I am far more comfortable with a loose knit group of people versus the restrictions of an offical coven. Sooooo, seeing as how I can go eather way, I guess that makes me a bi-witch huh?
BLESSINGS - Phoenix969

I can't really say because I've never been in a coven. Then, I haven't done any spells or rituals yet either to actually call myself a solitary witch. I think I would like to join a coven mainly for experience and as a learning experience. I don't have any room here - I live on campus and the room is barely big enough to live in let alone open a circle and perform any rituals etc.
Tina.Warry@jcu.edu.au

When I really need to talk to another Witch, someone who understands the hurdles I am coming up against. I think, especially to those who are new to Wicca, a coven is especially useful. I just wish there was someone, or even a coven in my state to at least contact in times of need - thank the Goddess that I have access to the internet!!
Kali Valkyrie

Wow, a tough question... I think that you need to be able to have it both ways. To be able to work within a coven structure AND to be able to work alone. I am currently a solitary, but I have people around me who can take up the slack and we work together. Working alone magickally to me, is easier on the whole, due to some very strong personality traits.(I can be rather bossy) But working with others is a joy, when like minds are joined in a like purpose.
Brightest Blessings to all...
Niniane BriteDragon

I have been a witch (yes, I too am choosing to reclaim this word) for approximately 5 years. For this entire time I have been solitaire simply because I wanted to find out what I believed in before I joined a group. Also, I have found that I am very eclectic (mixing ancient Egyptian mythology, Celtic magicks, shamanism, and folk magicks often in the same ritual). I have basically come to the conclusion that I am not going to find a coven that is right for me unless I create it myself. On the same lines, my husband has done both coven and solitaire work, and while he enjoys the one on one that solitairy practice affords, he does miss the companionship people can have only if they worship together. I am not one to say either is better, however, I am glad that I chose to worship alone first.
Cheri aka FalconWolf

I feel that the advantage of working or worshipping in a coven is rewarding in its own, first of I believe that should you do any magickal work there is more power and strenght in a famely, than there would be working alone, there is less chance of making mistakes and the rituals are well prepared and researched, by working alone I think that one tents to slip at times, and always try to mind the rule of three, you know that you will try to get oway with shortcuts ect. when you work alone, whereas in a coven the time/date is set asside and all is prepared for the need of the moment, and the reason the spell/magick is done.
Blessings
Spiritwalker
(a member of the Eart Light Eclectic Witches)

I think it is upto an individual to place his/her own personal views as to practice on a solo basis but for me as a newbie to the path I think you can only learn so much from text books. Being in a right coven environment and have a natural connection with the people in that coven is very important, for me at the moment am a solitary and will be in the presence of the Lady/Lord until the time is right for me to move into a structurised coven environment, however saying that I think I would much prefer working in a Coven.
Blessings
Cosmicbaby@Team17.com

I have been solitary since I became introduced to the Craft. I find occasionally, someone who is like minded, but both times they moved away. I would like to experience working in a group, as it is difficult to maintain the self-descipline to stay focused, and I think that I could learn alot. I just don't know anyone else who lives in my area of Boise, Idaho. I have met a few folk who say they are pagan, but have entirely different outlooks on things, and they were making me nervous, so I at this time work solitary.
Merry Meet!
LadyHawke

I've been Wiccan for only a little while now and even though I've remained solitary I have friends who have helped me out when I was confused. I like working through things by my self but it's nice to know there is someone there to help out if help is needed. As to which is better, I really wouldn't know because I've never been part of a coven.
macleod@netaccess.on.ca

I am currently a solitary, although I've been trying to hook up with a coven via the net. I live in a very rural area where I can't seem to contact other like me.
jhoward@mounet.com

I have considered myself a wiccan for almost two years although as of yet i am not an initiate. I am a british male of 16 and am always laughed at when I contact groups for help, advice and well known teachers, I don't know why they laugh, Scott cunningham begun his wiccan life at the age of 15 and it's us "youngsters" with the desire to join in harmoney with nature and the dieties that will continue the line. Adults have the experience us young ones have the energy, so why can't we join together and really work the traditions of wicca.

I would love to join a coven simply for that reason, to share knowledge, experience and energy amongst ourselves and honour the old ones as thet were meant to be honoured. I have found that as the turn of the millenium approaches, more younger people are looking for the answers and to solve life's little mysteries in a positive way instead of turning to crime and drugs which to me is a very good thing. Why do some of the elders of the craft push away instead of welcoming us with open arms. After-all we're all made of the same stuff.
Blessings
Belladon

I perfer coven because I am an autotary learner, so I mainly learn off of others. Not only tthat, but you are surrounded in people that you can discuss and pratice ypur religion openly. Many of them share the same ideas and intrests, so it becomes a lot of fun.
Willowend

I am new to Wicca, but I don't see the point in practing with others, especially not for me at this point in time, becuase i need to learn on my own. It would be great to have someone to guide me, but that isn't really nessecary. I think that anything you can't accomplish by yourself in the Craft, shouldn't be done!!
Blessed Be...
Ouisch

i'm a solitare because i'm an egomaniac. when i work in a group, i often don't get to do exactly what i want - and i seldom need the sheer volume of power generated by a group of wicce working together.
alexa

I am a solitary and have been for about 6 years. All experiences need to be shared to gain knowledge. You may practice alone, but you still need that knowledge. I pratice by myself but trade experiences with others to help me learn. Even do celebrations together every now and then.

Coven on the other hand you can have a someone who gets jealous of the other persons position in the coven which can lead to problems. But you can learn at a faster rate in a coven I believe. Well this is my view. Blessed Be to all and all Be Blessed.
Daut
catfish@seacove.net

I personally have had the pleasure of being a solitaire and working with two different covens. I think that, Yes, it is up to the indvidual to decide, but I also think that if a person does not give themselves the opertunity to experience BOTH, at least once, then they are short-changing themselves. Both the solitary path and the coven path have many good things to offer, not only the wiccan but also the world/universe, ect.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aurrora De

I am a solitary..........preferring to do my own research and meditations. I love your page and wish you continued prosperity and success in your searches.
Peace and harmony to you all. Penda

I have been a wiccan for a year and i have always been a soiltary even though i want to be in a coven because they will be my family and my friends. and of course that is just my preference!
Alandys

I've been a solitery for two years. I like the freedom it gives me, but it is difficult to find people to network with (and to maintain the discipline of self teaching). But I enoy it.
Morgaine

solitary. i dont like to get into disagreements with others and alone that is impossible.

I am not "officially" Wiccan or pagan, and was raised a Protestan Christian. However, after reading the overwhelming preference for solitary practice in these comments, I readily identify. I am not a "joiner" in that I do not belong to "clubs" or organizations. I have found all of them disappointing and annoying, including (or perhaps ESPECIALLY) organized religion/Church. I find I do not want to be classified. I lean towards what I all "reformed Druidry" (especially animal oracle) and find many pagan ideas and ways of perception to be similar to mine. Astrology interests me greatly. Thanks for the opportunity to comment. - WOLFCHILD

I very much prefer being a solitary witch. I am a totally introverted, solitary person in general, and for me wicca is simply too important to even attempt to share with others. I did work with a group of wiccan friends for about six months. But our group quickly realised that we all had conflicting beliefs. Some members had even latched on (bible-like) to particular books on wicca, and each of us was becoming closed-minded hostile, and downright cruel to each other. In my coven, I had to practice wicca in ways which were alien to me. I would rather sit quietly and meditate, while others would rather recite dramatic poetry and establish strict hierarchial structure. In fact, my coven experience nearly turned me away from the craft - I hated the restricting ritual and rules. Thankfully I left the group and became solitary, and I have returned to the Goddess. Good luck to all!
vpower@pathcom.com

I have been following the Wiccan path for 17 years, the first 13 as a solitary "Bible Belt small town in OK, VERY much in Broomcloset". Now I am an initiated Priest with the Pagan Temple of Arkansas. As to which is better, I am going to disagree with most of the postings and say BOTH are best. A person should not follow either the solitary OR coven method in ignorance. I believe it is best to give both methods a try then decide on what is best for you. both ways are valid, and both have strengths and weaknesses, which I tend to feel balance out. In the end the best way to practice Wicca is however the Gracious Lady and the Good God tell you is right for you. This knowledge is found after experiencing the possibilities then looking into your heart.
Lady and Lord Bless you all and keep you safe in their arms.
Padaman@AOL.COM

I am new to all of this so I'm not really educated too much with all the ins and outs of witchcraft, but I think both are equally beneficial. At the moment, I am not a member of a coven, but I would love to be for the support and the knowledge others could offer me. But, it's also so peaceful and spiritual to relax by yourself and practice what you want in your own ways and learn things by yourself.
ELisa

I am more of a solitary witch, between school and tafe i have no time to really do any complicated workings, and i also dont know any other wiccans in my area.
blessed be.
shyvonne

I am personally a solitary Witch, for reasons that I don't have access to people in my area that are trustworthy beyond a shadow of a doubt (a trust that I would require to worship, and perform rituals with a group). And, I would rather be alone in the presence of the God and Godess when I pray, chant, meditate -- etc,... I think it all depends on who you are personally, and your own desires and spiritual needs. Some perform much better, and are considerably more effective, and at ease in close Covens and circles, I've found. However, I *myself* can concentrate and feel much more "connected" with the Earth and it's *own* powers when I am in solitude. Whatever an individual feels more comfortable with is what he/she should follow. I deeply respect, and admire the Coven members I've known, as non-solitary Witches seem to have a very close and precious bond with each other in their groups.
Bright Blessings!
Lilysong

I'm new to the Craft so I am Solitary. Im not aware of too many others involved in the Craft in my neck of the woods!I would like to meet some fellow pagans in my area.Im in Southern California.
Meighve

I prefer Solitary for myself. I am not a follower and I prefer to make my own traditions for myself. I feel it is more personal that way, because it is from your heart, not someone elses.
Angelkobra@aol.com

I have been a witch (yes, sigh, I choose to use that word :)) all my life and I have always been solitary. I have been practicing, officially...with help from books etc. for 15 years. I have nothing against covens, I have been searching for one that would suit me my entire life. Alas, it seems I'm either too head strong to follow direction or all I have seen don't seem to incorporate my personal relationship with the Lord and Lady....mostly the latter! :) If I ever found one I would love the company, as I do think the religious and magickal workings in a coven can be VERY strong. However, until that happens, I am perfectly happy to remain a solitary...and know that I can still call myself "witch". :)
MP Andrea @-}-------
aka: Ivy Fireheart

I have primarily been a solitary. (Though lately, dormant) I enjoy the "strength" I find in working with other. Trust seems to be the major obstacle to effective group work. That and the machinations of individual egos. I hope my experiences with the politics of group work are the exception. I did not like working through the personality flares, wondering who was going to exercise their Goddess given right to run things.

I would like to work with a coven of trusted, loved friends, but the reality is that pagans are, in general, rugged individualists, so getting a group to work well together is a stretch. The likelihood is that I will probably work solitary. But I won't give up hope.
Cindy

I have wanted to find others of like mind and have come close, (this is my going on third year of being on this path) but due to family obligations, and so forth it hasn't been easy to find a group to work with. Most of those I have heard of are a couple hours away which wouldn't be quite as big a deal if I didn't have small children to mind and so forth, by the ned of the day as most parents know, I am just whipped.I am solitary by nature, always have been as a child, people used to remark on it to my parents. I really do enjoy my solitary time for ritual because after a day of constant noise, it is such a wonderful way to switch gears and have something I can FULLY be involved in UNinterupted! (wink!) I trust that if I keep myself open to the like-minded folks that I would be suited to work with, I shall find that/those people. I am not willing to get worked up about it or too concerned anymore that I am "not in a coven,etc.." I am constantly learning with each ritual I do and I am also in a BA program with Our Lady of Enchantment which has proven to be a super idea and has tightened up my knowledge nicely. I don't think one is better then the other (coven vs solitare) but I do think that there appear to be a number of "over-night" covens and I think people should be very selective as to the groups of people they would work with. For now, I am happy to be solitary but I wouldn't mind doing some ritual work or Sabbat celebration and ocassional Ritual with other people I felt were well-grounded.
Maija

I find that wicca is a very personal thing for me and have never felt comfortable doing spells with other people. I prefer to pratice as a solitary praticioner. However talking with others about has enriched my own magick.
Blessed Be
Rogue

I have found that an equal balance of coven workings and solitary works very well. There are situations, i.e. distance,work schedules, where your coven isn't able to come together and do something needed. I belong to a coven and we are thrilled to be together through the worst and best of times. (And trust me we've had them) The saying of "A chain is only as strong as it's weakest link" is very true with any coven. I've seen what I felt were very strong groups fall apart at the seams during a crises..and small groups that got stronger becaue of it. If a group of witches are encouraged to also do solitary workings I feel it makes the entire coven stronger because of it. To answer the question (if I haven't already) I prefer a blend of coven and solitary.
May your path be free from bumps !
Merry Meet.... Lady Jana Heo-Wulf Noroan
Howling Wolf Coven/ WolfsHead Tradition

I prefer solitary, my spirituality is such an evolving issue for me that it is hard for me to share it...I have tried a coven, and I've found that unless you are really close with everyone in your coven it is much preferable being solitary. You can do more things as an individual than if other's are involved, I think an occasional ritual done with other's is okay, but as a whole, I am a "solitary practicioner". If you want to be a "solitary practicioner" read Scott Cunningham's book, it's a great way to start.
Blessed Be.
Danielle

I basically am in the solitary catagory. I have a very busy life and my work make me keep my practices mostly secret. I run a day care out of my home. I also really don't know any other Wiccans in my area. QKSN12B@prodigy.com

Merry Meet! I have always been solitary in just about any enterprise I chose and Wicca has been no different. I have a very few close friends who are the same and we talk quite openly about our beliefs and experiences. However, it has never dawned on any of us to pool resources. We all just have our own ways. I am very Kitchen Witchy and not ritual oriented as my friends are. I learn through books and lately on the net and of course through the natural osmosis of opening myself up to the Goddess. Any group I have ever been tangent to for any reason has always fallen apart due to politics and personal power goals. I don't imagine that a formal coven would be immune to this. Thank you all for sharing.
Peace.
CoyoteCrowDreamer

I have been a solitary practioner for approximately one year now. I think that being part of a coven would inhibit me in ways. I feel I couldn't focus or direct my energies as well with an audience. Some Witch's need support from other magickal people, while others find sufficient support they need from the Earth and within themselves. I believe it's a personal choice.
Blessed Be to all,
Zoee Etain

I have only begun studying the Craft seriously in the past year or so; so far I am Solitary, although I receive information from others in my area. I have a standing offer to become more involved with others, but so far work and physical distance have kept me alone. Most local circles meet at night over an hour away from me, and as I have no night vision I feel unsafe trying to join them. No one has judged me for that, however, and I hope at some point to be able to work with others. I know that overall, however, I will always be solitary because that is how I choose to live the rest of my life as well; it fits, and I am comfortable with that. I am grateful that the circles are there and that they are willing to provide me with the assistance I need.
Tera

I suppose you'd have to call what I prefer a Circle, though to me it's a partnership. My fiance and I (we will be handfasted on Midsummer this year) work together, and I have found that to be much more productive and comfortable for me than either Solitary or any other form of Circle.
Gwenhwyfar

I belong to a coven. We are like a family. We are told that the coven is only as strong as the magick we bring to it, so we are all encouraged to prectice, practice, practice. The stronger we become alone, the stronger we are when we come together in a group. Therefore, the feeling of being a solitary is satisfied as well. We also know that we have each other to turn to in a time of need. It is truly magickal!
Aurora

I have been a witch for five years. I've been in a circle for almost one... (Bealtaine marks our year!). I don't feel like I'm comfortable in the circle for practice, though... guess being a self-taught rather practical person, I just learned to do it all myself, and now getting help from the circle is very hard... (Of course, the fact that I'm teaching the entire circle, since I'm the only one with any knowledge, really, doesn't help.)
But then, maybe I'm just babbling on... ;-)
Cassiopia...

I prefer solitary. I've always been nervous when doing anything in front of others, so that's kinda explanatory. Also, I've only found 2 people that I would trust with that much info about me. We're friends, but we're college students, and coordinating get to be a problem with crazy school schedules.
a-guthrie@onu.edu

I think that solitary works best for me and my life, but there are alot of things you miss out on by not being in a coven.
TempralThor

I have worked in both settings...and I do believe each has their place, and their price! Many years ago I chose to leave coven work because I did not wish to "be responsible" for some of the workings the group as a whole would pursue. My own personal ethics would lead me to make a different choice about a course of action than my coven brothers and sisters . I felt that it was time to be a solitary rather than to disagree with everyone. The lessons learned are different, and I have enjoyed the solitude and inner peace I have found being alone in sacred space. My caution to those who engage in coven work is to always remember the Rede "An' it harm none, do what you will" I would say that harming none also refers to passing judgement on another's actions, regardless of what they are. The Universe in it's Infinite Wisdom will take care of that...and ultimately takes care of All. Sometimes I miss the social aspects of coven activity, but because our numbers are growing all of the time it's a little easier to find those "of a like mind"...and web connections make this even more possible.
Bright Blessings to All...
Chris

I find the comments very interesting in that each one seems to mirror my own feeling and experience. I have always been a Wiccan and though as a child I thought myself a witch- that has always been what I am in this life and others that I have had to benefit to touch back to. I have had the abiliy to heal with my hands since I was little and knew it was something to keep from the adults. Back to the question, I have joined ceremony but have never had the desire to belong to anything other than myself.I do participate with different groups for events and seem to pull energy but groups too often tend to eventually fall into politics of some sort and I think that is counterproductive to ourselves and our goals.
Jaguar woman

Having experienced both coven AND solitary work, I firmly believe that BOTH have their place within the Craft and that BOTH are necessary.
There are times when I feel the need to practice alone, months or years on end, and there are times when I feel the need for group awareness and/or support. This is not to say that I would abandon one for the other. On the contrary, BOTH are necessary, I believe, for a Witch's development and and spiritual growth.

I've worked with covens and alone. Over the years I've found that sloitary work is better for me. As was mentioned several times there can be problems of practice/belifs in addition to power trips when working in a group. I do enjoy being with others for the Sabbats but that doesn't happen often because groups tend to be closed and leery of outsiders.
I've traveled a lot in my life and it would have been a great help if I'd been able to meet others. Even sloitaires tend to be suspious of those they don't know. Slowly we are able to come out of the closet, but it will be a longer fight than the gay community has had because the fear of "witches" is still so strong. The religious right, TV and movies have not made it any easier. Granted the fact that some "famous" people have revealed their belifs has opened many doors it is still very difficult even in cities were "any thing goes" to walk proud as a Pagan. Me, I'm just too honest and onery to stay locked up! I have even submitted a short stroy about Samhain to the college literay magazine and it had great reviews in the writing class. It did raise a few eye brows and spook a couple people, but after I explained what I do and believe the class was supportive for the most part.
I realise I have strayed from the subject, but the reason for this to explain another reason so many of us are sloitary. At least with the internet we can safely be open and begin to share information and rituals in ways that have never been avaiable to sloitaires or groups. To everyone I say keep on believeing in who you are and practice in the way that best suits your needs and situation.
Blessed be to all!
Diana (yes that's my birth and craft name)

I kinda like working solitary. I'm new to Wicca, and even though i live near some major cities, it's hard finding covens. i haven't found one yet, but i think it's because i don't really want to. It's nice to have someone you could ask questions, but i find alot through the net, e-mail pals, and books.
Tigerfox1@aol.com

I've tried covens and found that many people are into the "show" of witchcraft. If found in attending meetings that often the time was filled in "Catholic bashing."
I prefer solitary. To me the Craft is mysterious, wondrous, earthy. It is putting your hands in the warming earth at sprintime. It is walking out into a moonlit night and just listening. It is the magic and wonder of our minds, of the seasons, of the universe. If I could find a group felt these things I would love to share. SilverCrow

Blessed Be! Only recently did I discover that I have been practicing solitary most of my remembered lifetime - this one. And didn't know that's what I was doing. The Goddess energy seemed to just be - within myself. I did notice that trust & intent (and personal ritual) worked most of the time.
I, too, grew up hearing all kinds of stories about witches & such. Most troubling was trick-or-treating in my third grade year; literally scared by a large Christian man yelling about the devil. After reading, soul-searching with an open mind, I bought Scott Cunningham's book, Wicca: A Guide For The Solitary Practitioner. A spiritual question of mine had been answered.
Wiccan truths have been with me before I knew what wicca was. I have been considering the experience of group coven. My teacher hasn't appeared yet.
Therefore, I am a solitary.
IsisDiana@aol.com

I am a very solitary solitary. I do not cast spells unless they are only for my protection and mine alone as I do not believe that we have the right interfere in the destiny of another. I we need not counter attack if they harm us, for it will come around three fold on them. It is the way. This is why I am a solitary. Covens concentrate to much on the power magick and not on their inner power. They forget that they are just as even more powerful alone. They teach us to be weak and rely on others. We are a strong race and will always be.
Leah

As one who is solitary, I would love to find others like myself and join a coven..but I have yet to run into anyone into Wicca..I think in a coven people can maybe connect together and become stronger through the association--knowing you are not alone.
Blessings,
Alecto

well, I'm a solitary practicioner, and I enjoy it. While I hold true that organized religion tends to neglect individual needs for the better of the group, I have not experienced coven life. I imagine that people could gain many insights about theirselves through close spiritual contact with a group. And I do enjoy the passion of large rituals at times. But I view my relationship with the Divine as an intimate, individual relationship, and I find that expressing it as such works best for me. my flute in the mountains, with some offerings, a fire in the pit and in the heart!
B.B. y'all, and thanks for reading my $ 0.02.
waterbug@bellatlantic.net

After only studying for 7 months now, I can truly say I will always be a Solitaire. Witchcraft is so very personal, to do the rituals and meditations in front of other people would feel awkward, and perhaps, in my eyes, lessen them. Further, I still am not totally comfortable with the idea of others, besides my husband and 1 good witch friend, knowing that I practice witchcraft. I fear losing my job and being harassed. Unfortunate, but that's how it has to be.
Adria

I believe that it is definately a personal choice, and everyone has to find out what feels right to them. i enjoy practicing solitarily. rituals are a very intimate time, and i enjoy being able to have my "special time" alone. i also like solitary because it is important to me to find what feels best to me, and to practice my beliefs in my own, personal way. again, it is an individual choice.
blessed keep you,
raismara

I preferred to work at my own pace on my own time, plus my family wouldn't be able to understand why I am so facinated by witchcraft. I try to do at least one thing a week for my self to better my knowledge of the environmemntal workings to make my covenents stronger.
Sarl

I studied with a Coven and took my first degree with them before moving half way across the country. I am now a solitary, but not by choice. I have heard there are dysfunctional covens but mine was not, therefore, if I had a choice I would return to a coven again.
Sierra SilverOwl

Though I've only been practicing for a little over a year, I know my heart is into my craft. Many other practicioners in my area don't understand that. When I first began, I thought a coven would be witchcraft heaven. But after participating in a coven spell, I felt uncomfortable practicing with a large number of people. I know a lot of people find the coven life fine and dandy, but I enjoy my quiet time in ritual to much to share it with even my closest of friends. Being solitary has made it easier for me to find myself, and to understand my craft because it hasn't been influenced by other people's ideas.
Moonflower Winterwind

I've always been solitary. Free to feel what the plants tell me is right, Free to feel the messages in the wind... Free to find myself reading a book that came to me from a garage sale, exactly when I needed that tidbit of information to incorporate into the ritual of life. Fear of stifling the influx of knowledge is what has kept me from seeking a coven. I do not wish to impose my ritual on others, or have them impose theirs on me.
Rising

I, in my personal experience working as a solitary and briefly in a circle agree that it is a matter of personal preference. And although the circle or coven in your area may not suit you, do not rule out every other group forever. Every group has an individual dynamic which is also everchanging.
I currently work solitary. Not because I can't find a group or person to work with, but because I haven't found anyone who is comfortable to myself.
I also must add that ANYONE who thinks they can raise more power as a group, and believes themselves superior for having such a membership is out of line and may be surprized someday. ;)
Earthstar

I am a solitary, but that is not only by choice. Like some who responded to this question, I live in an area that is arch-conservative and do not even know any other Wiccans in the area. I think I'd prefer solitary practice anyway, because Wicca is such an individual religion and this way I can practice the way that feels comfortable for me....and not worry about any beliefs or customs clashing with other members of the coven. I would like to meet other Wiccans in the area if there were some, though.
Paghan

I prefer solitary at this time. The decision to follow the wiccan path has taken me 5 years of thought and soul searching and finally this January I took the big plung. I self dedicated on Imbolc and it has been wonderful.
But I am not ready to participate with a group. I want to "find my feet" so to speak. How ever it is pretty lonely out here by myself so I am always interested in talking to other pagans.

I am a solitary witch, and I prefer it this way. I find I have a stronger connection with the Goddess while I do my rituals.
Gweniever

i prefer the solitary, that way i acan worship as i choose, no one can interfere, it is in my own time and space. hoever, i would enjoy working with othere wiccans on occasion on things that we are all concerned about.
danu

I've been a solitary all my life. My beliefs are my own, till I branched out a bit. I was honored to be named as high priestess for a shamanistic coven. I declined. I am not into organized religion. I did hold an interplanetory meeting while contemplating this, and I must say I will always hold that experience dear in my heart. (I suppose I must explain that we were all mortals that chose to meet at a paticular time by whatever means brought us there. I, at the time used my crystal ball.)

I haven't the knowledge or patience for ritual. I only know what has been given to me to know and to hold as true. Thus, I am a solitary.

I have a brief synopsis of my beliefs at http://www.totcon.com/users/katmandhu/philos.htm Or visit me at http://www.totcon.com/users/katmandhu

Makheru, my friends.............later..............kat

solitary, is preffered as I have not met any folks localy who seem as serious as I would like them to be. I also do not wish to disclose my feelings to alot of people whom I do not know very well.

As someone who's worked both in a coven and on my own, I'd have to say that it's up to personal preference. I found out, after about five years in a coven of feeling that something was not quite right, that I'm more suited to solitary practice. A lot of people seem to have the impression that the only reason a Wiccan would choose to be solitary is if he or she can't find a coven, grove or circle in their area. I don't think that's true at all - in the past four years, since I went solitary, I've run into plenty of people who are solitary by choice. All in all, it depends on the kind of person you are.
Bkwyrm

Having done a little work in both settings, I have to say that there are definate positives to each. Working solitary allows a person freer rein as to their own spells, rituals, and practices. Covens need to coordinate, so spontaneity gets cut down on. However, having those other people there and working with them in a unified effort is an incredible experience. I reccomend both. :) Never let a coven make you do something you donb't want to, though. Once you hit that point, you're really stretching the concepts of love and trust that are essential to a coven. And, alternately, be careful what you do in solitude, because there's no one to clean up after you but you.
Ananda

I belong to a GROVE. (another name for coven). I believe in being with others of like mind because we continue to study. It is important to have knowledgeable witches. The variety of witchcraft I practice is a mystery school. I learn from those above me and teach those below. I am an initiate and Maiden of my coven. I have my brothers and sisters to rely on. We mutually raise and handle our energies together. I have worked alone, in my office at home between four altars and within a circle. I can raise power there, but to feel the power move around my circle, being braided by my covenmates, Wow.
Blessed Be
the grey cat

I have had the opportunity to have had both . I have to say that i after being in a coven that broke apart and then working solo ,have found that working within a circle of other solitares and then doing some things on my own is what i like best!!!!!!!!!! The only thing is everyone is different and you should try everything that comes your way until you find your little nitch!!!!!!!!
ELWOOD1@concentric.net

I am a Soliaire who also gathers with other Wiccan/Pagan friends to celebrate the seasons. We call this a Circle not a Coven, as those present vary at each event. We look upon these Circles as an opportunity to teach and raise the awareness of others who are interested, but ignorant of the ways of Wicca. Since it is very difficult and strenuous to raise and direct the energy raised at these events, which include anywhere from 4 to 15 people, usually half of them new to Wicca, I find it necessary for my own spiritual growth to practice the way of the Solitaire regardless of what may have been celebrated with the Circle.
Bright Blessings!
jjkia@aol.com

I believe both are equal. I, myself, am a solitaire, only because of the location I live {there's not many covens I'm aware of} I live in a town that still has witchcraft laws on the books, and it's a very "moral" community. If you look different or have different ideas, you are looked at with suspecting eyes. The covens that I do know of and have had a little contact in, seem to be into powertripping, i.e. if you don't go skyclad...you're not in the group. I wish I knew of a good coven in my area...it would be nice to talk openly about belifs and ideas.
CatDancer