About
Our Tradition & Founder
Rev. Uma Devidasi, HP — Founder & High Priestess
Our High Priestess & Founder
My name is Uma, a resident of the picturesque Adirondack region in New York State, which holds historical significance as the ancestral land of the Lenape, Delaware, and Esopus peoples.
As a Trans*woman / Third Gender person, I bring a unique perspective to my work. My background is in Religious Studies, specializing in comparative religions with a particular emphasis on South and Central Asian folk traditions.
I have been ordained as a Priestess of Aphrodite and proudly founded the Aphrodisian Wicca Goddess Tradition in 2023.
The Aphrodisian Wicca Goddess Tradition
Naos Aphroditi — The Motherhouse of the Temple of Aphrodite
Located in New York, the Motherhouse of the Temple of Aphrodite (Naos Aphroditi) serves as the central hub for Aphrodisian Wicca, a contemporary, Goddess-centered tradition devoted to Aphrodite, the Greek deity of love, beauty, and sexuality. Our path is built on the belief that the feminine divine and the lived experiences of the body are central to spiritual growth and personal change.
We honor Aphrodite as a compassionate, life-affirming presence, a source of emotional healing and a guide for those seeking to deepen their self-worth and relationships. While our tradition is rooted in the worship of Aphrodite, we also recognize Her kinship with sister goddesses of love, beauty, desire, and lust from cultures around the world.
Our tradition embraces feminist values, autonomy, and the creative power of all genders. Practitioners are encouraged to cultivate a personal relationship with the Goddess, meeting Her both as an external deity and as a sacred presence within themselves. Spiritual life here is shaped by a commitment to self-care and a reverence for the natural cycles of the Earth and body.
We hold equality, compassion, and intuitive wisdom as guiding values. People of every gender, body, and orientation are invited to explore the holiness of desire and the grace of pleasure as valid paths of devotion. Together we strive to be an inclusive, safe, and affirming community where tenderness is strength, vulnerability is wisdom, and joy is a ritual in itself.
Frequently Asked
What types of courses do you offer?+
Various courses on the Aphrodisian Wicca Goddess Tradition, Goddess Spirituality, Paganism, devotional practice, ritual, and spiritual study designed to cultivate compassion, self-love, and reverence for the body and the Earth.
Are the services really free?+
Yes! Training within the Aphrodisian Wicca Goddess Tradition is offered freely to all who feel called to serve as Priestess, Priestx, or Priest.
How can I get involved?+
Join our classes or community events by signing up through our website or messaging us on Instagram @naosafroditi.
Is the temple open to everyone?+
Absolutely. People of every gender, body, and orientation are invited. Every person carries a spark of divine beauty within.
Do I need previous experience with Paganism or Wicca to join?+
No previous experience is required. Whether you are entirely new to Goddess spirituality or already a seasoned practitioner, you are welcome. Our seminary training begins at the foundations and grows with you at your own pace.
Do I have to give up my current religion or path?+
Not at all. Many of our members hold dual or interfaith practices. Aphrodite welcomes all who honor love, beauty, and compassion, and our tradition is happy to walk beside whatever spiritual path already nourishes you.
What does ordination as Priestess, Priestx, or Priest involve?+
Ordination follows a course of seminary study, devotional practice, ritual training, and personal mentorship. Those who feel called are guided through preparation, dedication, and finally an ordination rite that consecrates them in service to Aphrodite and Her community.
Do you offer rites of passage and life ceremonies?+
Yes. We celebrate handfastings and weddings, baby blessings and naming rites, coming-of-age ceremonies, croning and elder rites, and memorials. Each ceremony is crafted with care to honor the people, the moment, and the Goddess.
Are LGBTQIA+ people, trans people, and non-binary people fully welcome?+
Yes, fully and joyfully. Our founder is a Trans*woman / Third Gender person, and our tradition is rooted in the conviction that every gender, body, and orientation reflects the beauty of the Divine. Sacred love takes many forms, and all are honored here.
How do I begin building a personal devotion to Aphrodite?+
Begin simply: light a candle, offer a flower, fresh water, or a sweet token, and speak to Her from the heart. From there our courses, readings, and community can help you deepen ritual practice, learn Her epithets, and cultivate an ongoing relationship with the Goddess.
How do I become a Member?+
Membership begins with connection. Reach out through our contact page or message us on Instagram @naosafroditi to introduce yourself and share what draws you to Aphrodite. From there you are welcome to join our classes, gatherings, and seasonal rites at your own pace. There are no fees and no vows required to belong — simply a sincere heart and a willingness to walk alongside our community in love, beauty, and devotion.