Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica As Manefest under the O.T.O.Foundation

Introduction

The E.G.C. (Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica, or Universal Gnostic Church) is a body for the expression of religious aspects of Thelema .

We hold that religion should be an intelligent celebration of Truth, and that the first and most necessary truths are those concerned with the continuity of nature and our part therein, as it is said, "everything which has existence has life in some measure, and everything that lives is Holy". We also hold that this continuity of Nature may be asserted by the respectful salutation and acknowledgement of the forces of Nature. Such observances keep us mindful of our place in the universe, and lessen the sense of separateness from it.

Membership in the EGC is open to all persons of whatever age, gender, colour, cultural background or sexual preference. Membership is entered into through Baptism and entails acceptance of the Gnostic Creed, of the Law of Thelema as the foundation of one's life and conduct, and of the bonds of mutual support between members of the Congregation as a fellowship. It also entails for adult members the obligation to materially support the work of the Church in such fashion as may from time to time be necessary.

It is the work of the E.G.C. to provide a framework for 'Religious' rites in a Thelemic Context and to create a space where 'the Law is for all.' Membership in E.G.C. does not carry the same degree of commitment as initiation into an Order such as the O.T.O. Foundation, it is also open to those under 18, thus it serves a broader Thelemic Community.

The Central Ritual of the E.G.C. is the Gnostic Mass, a dramatic Ceremony which portrays the interplay of Male and Female energies, as symbolised by a Priestess and Priest, in a celebration of the continuity of Life., the ritual is followed by feasting, drinking, music and general celebration. The Mass is celebrated on the Eight Festivals of the year (the Equinoxes, Solstices and cross-quarter days) as well as on certain days of particular significance in Thelema. Each of these seasonal Festivals draws on Local Traditions, preserving that from the past which is still valid and revitalising it for the times in which we live.

The E.G.C. also provides a variety of 'rites of passage' for it's members, which form an important focus for a community, such rites include namings for Children, Ceremonies of Marriage, Funeral rites, Blessings for pregnancy and Menopause etc. Marking these important events with joy and beauty, and interpreting their significance and function in the New Aeon. The Importance of these rites within a community cannot be overstated, each in their own way mark a critical experience in the life of the individuals concerned,. Performed properly they can be of real benefit to those participating, providing them with a focus and a charge on their endeavours and applying the insights of the Law of Thelema to such key experiences.