Founded in 1974 by Selena Fox, Circle Sanctuary is a prominent non-profit Wiccan church and nature preserve located in southwestern Wisconsin. It serves as a center for Wiccan worship and education, providing support and networking for the broader Pagan and nature spirituality communities.

Origins: Circle Sanctuary was established as part of the emerging ecological and spiritual movement of the 1970s, with a mission to facilitate the practice of Pagan and nature-centered spirituality in a protected and sacred environment.

Mission and Vision: The organization is dedicated to fostering community for nature worship, spiritual healing, and support. It also focuses on environmental conservation, interfaith collaboration, and the preservation of sanctuary land.

Spiritual Services: Circle Sanctuary conducts a variety of rituals and ceremonies throughout the year, celebrating major Pagan festivals such as Samhain, Beltane, and Yule. These events are integral to building and sustaining community spirit and spiritual practice.

Education and Outreach: The sanctuary offers workshops, classes, and retreats on aspects of Wicca, Paganism, and nature spirituality. Educational efforts extend to online resources and podcasts aimed at global outreach.

Environmental Conservation: Managing a nature preserve, Circle Sanctuary actively participates in ecological conservation efforts, promoting sustainable practices within the Wiccan and wider Pagan communities.

Legal and Advocacy Work: Circle Sanctuary has been involved in various legal efforts to secure the rights of Pagans and Wiccans, including military recognition of Wiccan symbols on gravestones and advocating for religious freedom.

Background: Selena Fox is a Wiccan priestess, environmentalist, psychotherapist, and Pagan rights activist, recognized for her work in establishing and legitimizing Wiccan and other Pagan paths in the United States and internationally.

Contributions: Beyond founding Circle Sanctuary, Selena Fox has played a pivotal role in interfaith dialogues, environmental activism, and the global Pagan community through her teachings and public engagements.

Interfaith Collaboration: Circle Sanctuary is active in interfaith endeavors, working with different religious and spiritual communities to promote mutual understanding and respect.

Support Networks: The organization provides support for military personnel, Pagan prisoners, and others through various ministries and programs.

Legal Challenges: Circle Sanctuary has navigated numerous legal challenges over the years, advocating for religious rights and environmental protections.

Recognition and Influence: The success of Circle Sanctuary in obtaining government recognition for the Pentacle as an emblem of belief on VA headstones marked a significant achievement for the Wiccan community.

Circle Sanctuary remains a vital institution in the Wiccan and broader Pagan community, known for its commitment to spirituality, education, ecological stewardship, and legal advocacy. As it continues to grow, it serves as a model of how spiritual and environmental values can intersect to create a sustainable and respectful approach to modern religious practice.