Spells are prayers Witches send out into the universe to effect beneficial change. They are mental projections we either speak, write, or think. In my own coven, we write down spells, think about them, and read them aloud before actually casting a spell in a Magic Circle. Wording your spell correctly is important. Words are powerful instruments in and of themselves. In the form of a spell, cast in the magical setting of a Witch's Circle, they wield an ineffable strength. Before casting a spell, make sure you know what you're asking for, because once you ask for it, you're going to get it. I write spells on parchment or loose, unlined, unbonded sheets four to five inches in size. Use recycled paper for everything except for writing spells, because whatever was written there before will conflict with the spell you are writing. Any spell can be cast using three ingredients or herbs. The more ingredients you use, however, the more powerful the energies raised.

Spells are also ways Witches use to protect themselves through magic. There is no doubt that harm, hardship, suffering, and struggle exist in the world, but Witches take responsibility for their own safety. We reject the belief that our lives are determined by fate or evil forces beyond our understanding. Nor do we believe that our lot in life is retribution for some evil deed we may have committed in a past life. Witches know how to defend themselves without causing harm to others. The bottom line is, we all have to live with what we create. Witches believe that whatever spell we cast out into the universe comes back to us three times; therefore, emotions like greed, jealousy, envy, or vengeance are counterproductive in magic. Instead we practice an "active resistance" against using magic for harm. We cast protection spells and know how to neutralize harm. After each spell we ask that it is "correct and for the good of all." Above all else, the Witches' Credo states: "Do what you will, and it harm none."