About Sangha-Sho


Based in Rochester, NY, The Coven of Sangha-Shō is dedicated to nurturing and encouraging the spiritual development of its members and the community through education, ceremony, service, and an enduring commitment to living the Wiccan Rede.

It is our belief that often in society, we do not take the time to be spiritual and pause to understand the connection we have to the Goddess and God.  In such cultures as in India and Asia or in paths of enlightenment such as Yoga, Buddhism, Taoism, or Zen, there is a "built-in" time in spiritual life to be spiritual and reflect on the power that humans have and how we are connected to something greater than ourselves.  For this reason, The Coven of Sangha-Sho stresses the need to live a Wiccan life, rather than just practicing Wicca.  One of our objectives is to understand that we are connected to each other and that we continue to live according to the tradition of Sangha-Sho.

Although we are
not an Eastern Coven, we do allow for a strong influence from the Eastern School of Thought because of the reasons aforementioned; those societies already live spiritually.


So, What does Sangha-Sho mean?
The word "Sangha" comes from ancient Sanskrit and is used in Yoga studies amongst Tibetan Monks. One of its definitions is:

                              
"A community of people dedicated to nurturing and encouraging Spirit."
The second word, "Sho",  is actually the name of the circular Chinese symbol which corresponds to the Five Chinese Blessings:

                                              
"Health, Happiness, Long Life, Virtue, and Peace."
By putting the two together, you get:

                                       "
A group of people dedicated to living, encouraging, and nurturing
                                                               the Sho Blessings within themselves and in others."
 




We thank you for taking the time to learn about our Coven.  May the God and Goddess grant you all the Blessings of the Sho and guide you on your spiritual path!  Blessed Be!
                                                                                                              - The Coven of Sangha-Sho