If you have ever jokingly or not-jokingly said, “I like animals more than I like people,” welcome. You are in the right place.

You are invited to enter the circle of Potnia Theron, the Lady of the Wild Ones, with sincerity and wonder. We gather to remember that the world is alive, that spirit is embodied in fur, feather, fin, and scale, and that a Priestess of Earth tends the needs of our non-human kin. In this unique training, hosted collaboratively by the Priestesses of the Mt Shasta Goddess Temple, you will learn evocative and practical methods of devotion to the animal realm, design a path of expression for your unique calling, and study mythologies and cultural paradigms related to the natural world and its denizens.

Our Initiatory four-week class creates the first rhythm. We meet, we practice, and we kindle the devotional flame. You will learn stories and symbols of Potnia Theron, establish simple rituals, and begin to walk with Her as your guide and protector.

Once the foundation is set, the path widens. You will select from a menu of courses that speak to your heart, all offered by trained and ordained Priestesses of the Temple. Corvid, cow, turtle, wolf, serpent, butterfly, deer, fox, lion, sow, dove, owl, and bee await your exploration. Some teachings center on animal allies and dream work. Others introduce offerings, sacred craft, or field practice. Each woman shapes her own study pilgrimage through this middle portion, guided by instinct, curiosity, and the voice within. There is space to deepen slowly, to explore, to find what feels true in your hands and spirit.

Our final four weeks return us to the heart of the work for integration and blessing. You will refine your rituals, craft your offerings, and prepare for the moment of recognition as a Priestess of the Wild Ones. In the closing ceremony, we stand together, we honor the Lady of the Beasts in her many forms, and we consecrate the work that has grown over time. You will leave with confidence in your relationship with Potnia Theron, a living practice, and a sense of belonging to a lineage held by women who serve life, protect the wild, and walk with devotion.

Introduction, Self-Chosen, & Conclusion Courses

4-Week Introduction Course
March 2026

Week 1 — Approaching the Animal World
We begin by opening our awareness to the animal world in myth, story, ecology, and direct experience, studying how different cultures understand animals as teachers, kin, and companions in creation. We explore animist perspectives, temple traditions, and folk relationships with animal spirits, with guided discussion on what animals mean in the wider web of life, and how symbolism develops through land, climate, and lived relationships. Students will complete simple research and observation practices, learning to listen without hurry and to meet each creature with respect.

Week 2 — Journeying and Shapeshifting
This week introduces journeying, trance, and shapeshifting as ancient ways of building connection. We look at animal shamanism systems across time, learn how rites of movement, rhythm, and breath can open pathways to communication, and practice gentle techniques for entering the visionary realm. Students explore their own sensory language for trance, meet guides or guardians, and begin to keep a journal of imagery, sensations, omens, and insights. Safety, grounding, and sovereignty in spirit work will be emphasized throughout.

Week 3 — Devotion in Action
We turn toward the marriage of devotion and responsibility. Each student chooses the animals they are drawn to and begins research on habitat, behavior, conservation status, and cultural lore. We discuss how spiritual insight deepens when it is paired with knowledge, service, and real-world engagement, and begin to develop a menu of options for our practical service to animals as we advance. Projects may include habitat study, volunteering, creative offerings, divination, shamanic journeying, rescue, TNR, or symbolic craft. The goal is to cultivate a balanced relationship with both spirit and body, myth and earth.

Week 4 — Potnia Theron and the Altar of the Wild Ones
In our final week of the introduction course, we meet Potnia Theron directly. We explore her many appearances across the ancient world, from Minoan seals to Arcadian myths, and the forms through which she holds sovereignty over animals. Together, we create personal altars to her, learning offerings, epithets, gestures of reverence, and developing a regular devotional practice. By the end of week four, each woman will have a living place of honor in her home and a first relationship with the Lady.

Content Courses
Between March 2026 and January 2027

During the Study Year
Each student will choose her own personal curriculum of courses offered independently by Mt Shasta Goddess Temple Priestesses to create a personal mandala of study in the myths, mysteries, and magic of the animal world. Courses will be announced as offered:

Priestess Devanna Sira
Path of the Wolf
Serpentina (co-taught with Priestess Yeshe)

Priestess Yeshe Matthews
The Antlered Goddess
Serpentina (co-taught with Priestess Devanna)
Peace of the Dove
Mother of Lions

Priestess Kat Evans
Wings of Omen, Winds of Fate Corvids Class

Check back for additional offerings about the Bee, Bear, Butterfly, Backyard Birds, Fox, Domestic Cats Turtle, Sacred Sow, Owl, Turtles, Animal Reiki Certification, Animal Communication, Animal Massage, and more.

4-Week Conclusion Course
January 2027

Week 1 — Personal Prayer and Vow
We begin our integration by writing a personal prayer of praise to Potnia Theron and the animal guides who have walked beside each student. This week holds reflection, gentle writing practice, and time to speak aloud what the heart knows. Each woman shapes her own vows of devotion, service, and protection. These words become the foundation stone of her priestess path.

Week 2 — Devotional Planning and Practice Design
This week focuses on structure and sustainability. Students weave together journey skills, research, altar craft, and animal relationships into one unified devotional plan. We explore rhythm, offerings, feast days, seasonal rites, and regular observances. Each woman designs a personal framework that will carry her practice beyond the course of study, grounded in joy and reciprocity.

Week 3 — Presentations and Sisterhood Support
Students present their animal guides, projects, and devotional plans. We witness one another, share stories, and offer thoughtful support. This week strengthens community bonds and reminds each woman that she is part of a living circle of service. Reflection, feedback, and celebration are woven together.

Week 4 — Summary Practice and Blessing
We close with a collective ritual that gathers everything learned in one Vows ceremony, witnessed by our sisters and instructors. Students perform a brief devotional act, offer their prayers, and share a symbolic artwork. We bless each other’s work and make firm our commitments to Potnia Theron. The circle completes with gratitude and preparation for the path ahead.

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