Answer: Your family may choose to believe whatever they wish…and it is normal for family members to be concerned about your well-being.
Nevertheless, Wicca pretty much fails the criterion of a “cult.”
A cult—in modern terms—is a called a High Pressure Group. The first thing you should do is understand what is a “High Pressure Group” and what are some warning signs.
Always remember—if you are legally a competent adult—you have rights and you can choose:
Cults—or High Pressure Groups—on the other hand:
…do not encourage critical, independent thinking.
…limit with whom you may socialize.
…make unrealistic demands regarding your time and/or money.
…deceive people who donate money to that group about where and how this money is spent.
Admittedly, it is sort of impossible to practice as a “solitary Wiccan” (practicing alone), and be in a “High Pressure Group.”
On the other hand, if you are in any “group” and you are unhappy or uncomfortable because the “group” is insisting that the group’s needs--or the leader’s needs-- are more important than ANYthing else outside that group (job, health, family, pets, hobbies and activities with friends) that is a BIG RED FLAG!!
Here is some source info to learn more about High Pressure Groups:
High Pressure Group Caution University of Southern California, Office of Religious and Spiritual Life, Rm 106, Los Angeles, CA 90089
The Advanced Bonewits’ Cult Danger Evaluation Frame (version 2.6)
Tina Rodia, Arts, Humanities, & Social Sciences: Is It a Cult, or a New Religious Movement? Penn Today [penntoday.upenn.edu] August 29, 2019
FAQ: Wait a minute—what should I do?
About what? I thought it was obvious that you should educate yourself about High Pressure Groups to avoid getting involved with them. You should also remain in contact with friends and family members, thus maintaining healthy social relationships. … And … wait, is this about the “big argument”? Listen, I think you know your family better than I do.
If you have familiarized yourself with the facts and info in the sources above, that ought to help. Wicca does qualify as a New Religious Movement . Most scholars now agree it was recreated—or rather founded—in the early 20th century by Gerald Gardner and others, who drew on historical information, nature worship, and beliefs about pre-Christian spiritual/religious practices. Wicca was called “the Old Religion” because it involves a diverse set of old practices tied into a religious system.
Aside from that, you are an adult. You have to act like one. Don't get into useless arguments with your family, especially with something as illogical as faith. Remain honest, but do not challenge their beliefs or insist that anyone should embrace yours. Maintain your ground. If they do not approve of your path, just let it be.
Myth Woodling , June 21, 2020
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