What Is Croning?

Croning is a process, a time of change that centers on a particular part of a woman’s life. The simplest definition calls croning a coming-of-age and this change in life is traditionally marked by a ceremony, during which family and friends help celebrate with music and story-telling.

Marking a woman’s passage into a third part of her life is not a new idea. In fact the roots of croning go back to Wiccan religions of centuries past and the movement has gained new life in the past couple of decades. In recent years, older women share experiences of the past and the wisdom they have gained. Younger women gain considerably from new bonds with women who may have been a part of their life in the past.

It is proper to discuss the resurgence of croning as a movement, since women have been gathering formally since 1993. One of the positive effects of this new interest is getting women to celebrate their age rather than trying to hide the fact that they are growing older. She also makes it a point to celebrate her role as a mother, creating life. In addition, croning helps bring out evidence that a woman has long made significant contributions to her family, her community and the world.

Croning has quickly moved from its Wiccan associations in recent years, as women of many religious persuasions have joined the movement in some form. Research into the history of croning has shown that even some ancient, traditional religions have celebrated a woman’s life in ways similar to those in croning.

Women often make a point to see themselves as a new person, not different, but looking at life from a new vantage point. Family members and friends also change in some ways and attempt to honor the celebrated person in new ways (both word and deed). Some individuals volunteer to tell stories about the woman’s past, especially sharing stories that show special qualities of the honored woman.

Following the stories and music, eating and drinking are the order of the day (along with more music).
Even though the focus of the croning ceremony is a woman and her significant passage into a new part of life, both men and women are present at croning ceremonies. In addition, the celebration may be as complex and elaborate as the individual, friends and family would like it to be. Some participants have reported that croning is a new concept to them, but one that is more than welcome as an alternative to hiding age and being ashamed of the passage of time.

A song from about a decade ago included lyrics that advised young people to walk with the wise, so that the youth will also become wise. Croning can have this positive effect on those around the celebrated individual, while accomplishing the initial purpose of allowing an important individual to celebrate a third, natural part of life. The idea of croning is expected to grow as older women begin to mark this part of their lives with personal activities or with assistance from those close their hearts.

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