Term: self-dedication

The practice of some people (usually self-trained but sometimes simply  not accepted into a coven) wherein they dedicate themselves to the Goddess or a particular Wiccan or Pagan tradition. Some books have rituals for doing this while some people create their own ritual for this purpose. Others simply declare themselves to be a Witch. Many Solitary and Eclectic Pagans consider this a valid introduction to Paganism and would accept a person who performed such a dedication as a fellow Pagan. Many, if not most members of covens or initiates into a traditional coven might look askance at such a practice and either not accept such a person as a Witch or require further evidence (such as knowledge and skill) before such a person is accepted.