Priestess Alissandra Moon is a Spiritual Alchemist, Soul Coach & Mentor for Witches. She has co-authored an international best seller and is a regular guest on Radio, TV and Podcasts. Founder of Raven Moon Academy of Magick, she is on a mission to heal the world.
The idea of a spiritual awakening, of walking a deeply personal and transformative path, calls to many, but not everyone hears it, and fewer are still willing to answer it. Those who do step into this journey, however, often encounter a powerful pull toward serving something beyond themselves, something sacred. For some, this calling takes shape in the form of priestesshood (or Priesthood), a role that is romanticized and misunderstood in equal measure. While in modern Wicca and many other spiritual circles, titles like "Priestess" may be adopted with a self-declared ritual and a whispered vow, the reality of embodying this role requires a commitment that goes well beyond a title. The true essence of a priestess is rooted in profound inner work, unyielding service, and a lifelong devotion to spiritual principles that shape not just one’s practice but one’s entire being. It is a soul-deep contract between you and the Divine.
Spiritual awakening: The path that chooses you
At its heart, spiritual awakening is less of a choice and more of a summons. It can be a gentle beckoning, an undeniable pull, or even a life-altering rupture that breaks down illusions and calls you toward a different way of living. Unlike popularised depictions that focus on peace, love, and light, (or farting rainbows and pooping glitter, as I like to joking say) true awakening also reveals the shadowed parts of ourselves and of life itself. It is not about instant bliss but about stripping away what is untrue. It asks us to let go of who we think we are to become who we are meant to be.
When a person begins to see through the veils of illusion and touch their soul’s purpose, they may find themselves drawn to service. This is a significant step because spiritual awakening isn't just an internal experience. It manifests outwardly through our choices, our relationships, and, for some, through roles that allow them to guide others. Priestesshood can be one such calling, but this role demands much more than adopting a name; it demands that one become a vessel for the Divine in a grounded, compassionate, and humble way.
The true role of a priestess: Service, not status
In Wiccan circles and beyond, the title of "Priestess" is often casually embraced, sometimes after a weekend course, a handful of rituals, or a personal “initiation” ritual. While the enthusiasm is real and sincere, there is a tendency to focus more on the aesthetics and symbolism of priestesshood rather than its deeper responsibilities. This creates a superficial experience, where the title becomes an identity and badge of honour rather than a responsibility.
A true priestess is one who has submitted herself to her spiritual journey as a lifelong path. She is not seeking recognition, power, or validation. She serves not only her Gods and Goddesses but also her community, often in unseen, humble ways. To embody Priestesshood means to be a bridge between the mundane and the sacred, not simply in rituals and ceremonies but in everyday interactions, in quiet moments of self-discipline, and in tireless acts of compassion. A Priestess feels a deep responsibility to her path, to the energies she invokes, and to those she leads. She knows that the title is secondary; the work is primary.
The inner work: Shadow, ego, and self-transformation
To be a Priestess, to truly be called to this path, means undertaking deep inner work that goes far beyond casting spells or invoking deities. This work begins in the shadow, the unlit parts of ourselves where our fears, insecurities, and unconscious biases reside. True transformation does not happen through light alone; it is born of the willingness to confront, understand, and integrate our shadows. It is also understood that nothing can be all “love and light,” and in fact, it is unhealthy to expect as much.
Shadow work requires courage and strength that not everyone possesses. It demands vulnerability and the ability to question ourselves honestly, as well as the willingness to experience and unpack the painful emotions and fears that have been buried deep for many years. As one sheds ego-driven desires, whether for power, control, or admiration, the path of the Priestess becomes clearer. When we strip away the layers of who we think we are, we open to embody the wisdom and energy that Priestesshood requires. This path is rarely easy; it is a stripping away of illusions that demands humility and a willingness to be broken open again and again. It can be a terribly painful and sometimes terrifying experience and that is why there must be a solid foundation and high level of emotional intelligence there to begin with. Having a trusted mentor or coach to help you through it is highly advisable. (All things we do at Raven Moon Academy)
Responsibility to the sacred and to the community
Another often overlooked aspect of Priestesshood is the responsibility of true service. This isn't just about showing up in ritual spaces adorned with crystals and robes; it’s about offering oneself in service to both the Divine and the community. A priestess does not perform rituals for her own glory; she performs them to channel energy, healing, and guidance to others. She becomes a steward of spiritual energy, a caretaker of sacred spaces, and a guide for others on their own paths. This may include performing end-of-life and funerary rites, being there in times of grief for the family and many other roles that would not be considered ‘fun’.
Being in service means stepping aside from personal gain. It means being an anchor, a healer, a keeper of traditions, and sometimes a quiet, unseen pillar within a community. In times of crisis, a true priestess does not seek to lead for the sake of ego. Instead, she rises to the occasion because she knows it is her responsibility to hold space and offer support, guidance, and strength.
However, this does 'not' mean that we don't also use magick and ritual to help ourselves and to manifest our desires in our own private time. Magick is here to be used, but when it comes to the role of Priestessing and being a leader in this space, it means that it is not done for the glory.
This dedication often goes unappreciated in a culture that emphasises self over service. But for those truly called to the path, there is no need for external validation. Their reward is in fulfilling their purpose, in the knowledge that they are walking a path that brings them closer to their soul’s truth.
Priestesshood beyond titles: A sacred journey
The allure of Priestesshood is real and powerful, but the modern ease with which one can adopt the title often detracts from its depth. Priestesshood is not a role that can be bought or even learned in a series of classes. It must be earned through devotion, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to one’s spiritual path. True priestesshood is demanding and requires ongoing growth, humility, and an intimate relationship with both light and shadow.
For those who feel the call, it’s essential to remember that the journey is not about titles or appearances. To be a Priestess is to embody love, compassion, wisdom, and strength. It is to walk the world as a channel for Divine energy and to serve others with an open heart. It is a role that transforms not only the self but the lives of those it touches. And in this, a true Priestess finds her fulfilment not in recognition but in reverence and service. Sometimes, this means being the “bad guy” in someone else's story in order to protect the greater community. Yes, there are times when it is mighty difficult and painful, but it is also rewarding.
Answering the call
If you feel the call toward Priestesshood, let it be a true calling. Take time to sit with it, to feel it within your spirit, and to ask yourself if you are ready to make the sacrifices and undertake the transformation it requires. This path is not about grandeur; it is about humility. It is a sacred path of service and deep inner work. It is for those who are ready to surrender their ego to become a vessel of the Divine, those who understand that Priestesshood is not a badge of honour but a life of commitment and grace.
The role of the Priestess is ultimately a journey to the self, a path of deep, abiding reverence, and one of the most beautiful callings a soul can answer. But it is not to be entered into lightly, for it is a sacred duty that, once embraced, becomes not just a part of who you are but the very core of your life’s work. We at Raven Moon Academy take the training of Priestesses very seriously and in truth, not everyone makes it. Those who do are of the highest degree and walk their talk.
One of RMA’s long-term students, Karnie, aka Priestess Silver-Moon Dragon, will share with you her journey:
“The path of the Priestess is not for the faint of heart. It’s a pre-ordained contract with the Divine that calls, unceasingly to your Soul, welcoming you, enticing you into a world of MAGIC, Mysticism, and deep growth.
You will be tried, tested, challenged, and evaluated to the depths of your capacity to transmute and transform, and seriously, if you answer the call, you’d better be ready!
Priestess Training requires one to be authentic, honest, raw and vulnerable; it’s a deep dive into the essence of potential. Expansion and Ego death are daily constants. It is wonderful, exciting, and magical, but simultaneously, it will test every single belief you have about yourself and force you to genuinely know yourself, your triggers, your gifts, your talents, your deepest darkest shadows, and your programs intensely. Where you do allow yourself to shine and where you shrink your light back, limiting yourself.
Acknowledgement is a key component of Priestess Initiation, after all, how can one transmute and go beyond the programming and fears that they can't recognise? Knowing Thyself holds enormous power and potential; it is deep shadow work. However, this very work also allows the initiate to develop their capacity to protect and nurture themselves. When we understand our own ‘Achilles heels,’ it’s hard for people to use this against us.
My journey with Alissandra into the Sacred Rites and Arts of Priestesshood has been a phenomenal adventure into reclaiming my truth, indeed, absolute truths. Ironically, of course, once you know these things, once you’ve seen parts of yourself that need to be addressed, you can’t un-know them. Those ‘icky’, murky shadow parts of self that long to limit one’s potential, need to be exhumed and all of those inner dragons, slain or befriended. It’s necessary to be tenacious, and incredibly courageous, and that is simply not for everyone.
But for those who choose to answer the call of the Goddess, to surrender into Divine communion with her, the gifts, the magic, the unfolding, the synchronicities and the superconscious connections, and the divination gifts which unfold and enhance are incredibly sacred, delicious gifts, that should be cherished intensely as one steps deeper and deeper into the authentic power. I have learnt so much through working with Alissandra and the Miracles just keep on coming!”
For those of you who resonate with what has been shared here, I invite you to begin exploring this for yourself. Start by ‘Self-Priestessing,’ Working on your own sovereignty and advocacy for yourself. Working on your boundaries and practising self-compassion, but also knowing when to call yourself on your BS. Dig into self-reflection and journaling exercises to really get to know yourself beneath the conditioning of society and then start integrating the parts of yourself you have denied.
You don't have to dive headfirst into the deep end and make massive changes, though; I actually discourage that because it is not sustainable and is likely to cause more stress. Small changes like asking yourself if you really mean what you say or feel a certain way, making adjustments to what you watch and read, including social media. All these things greatly affect your vibration, and the music you listen to is one of the biggest influences because you affirm the words you sing and program your subconscious. I highly recommend checking out songs by Qveen Herby for that modern-day empowered Witch vibe. She promotes positivity but also self-sovereignty and ambition from a sexy, feminine place.
Able Heart is another positive spiritual artist, as is Mayra Stark. Do some digging to find a style and artist that works for you. Some other artists on my “Power Priestess” playlist are Lizzy Jeff, Ayla Nereo, Samantha Leah, Peachkka, Devon Cole, and Anna Diorio. To name a few. I would love to hear about your favourite songs and artists, so feel free to reach out on Facebook.
When you are ready to claim your power, check out our courses here and use code BRAINZ24 to get 20% off.
Read more from Alissandra Moon
Alissandra Moon, Priestess, Spiritual Alchemist, Soul Coach
Priestess Alissandra Moon is a world-renowned Healer, Coach, and witch who specialises in Shadow Work, Magickal Mentorship, and transformational Coaching. Obsessed with personal and spiritual development, she has more qualifications than any one human needs! Alissandra is extremely passionate about Animal Welfare & Raven Moon Academy is the official Supporter of Animals in Australia. Determined to make Magick & Paganism mainstream, with self-awareness, empowerment, healing, and compassion becoming the new normal. Alissandra calls for the lightworkers to unite for a common cause- To make the world a better place!
