Do you have the knowledge of community building? Regardless of the effort you put into the Foundation work, your gathering will not be successful unless you can advertise it's offerings, and be part of your community. You will need to attract members and provide valuable services to those who join you. Not to mention include a bit of fun in the process.
Do you know who your local pagan suppliers and store owners are? Do you know what publications you can advertise in? What about setting up and designing a website to share Information about your group and maintain an interactive calendar. All of these things are important to communicating to your group and getting the word out that you exist.
Do you have the knowledge to plan rituals, and direct them With Other members. One of the biggest problems with a gathering leader is they often forget that not everyone is on the same level. Even those who have attained the wisdom to run a gathering sometimes forget they need to 'hand hold' new members. This isn't ego or arrogance, it's just part of their nature. They do things by osmosis, because it comes natural to them, and they forget that others may not be aware of those things.
You WILL have to deal with the misconceptions of other groups who may not approve of your ways and create outside conflicts. Are you prepared to handle the insults, and the bigotry that may come your way? Not just from other pagan groups in your area, but also from non-pagan associations and people. Can you accept constructive criticism and new ideas from members? Let's face it, you can't do it all and other people do have some very good ideas and suggestions that can enhance and evolve your gathering. If you're open to listening to them, you can create a very successful group. But you must be able to let your own ego go and even some of your "ownership" of the group may need to be shared.
And how will your group work within your own community? Here is a good example of how pagans can learn from some of the organized religions. Sponsor community events to raise money for children, local organizations, volunteer organizations such as your local fire house and so on. Giving back is just as important as receiving. And creating good will between your group and other spiritual groups in your area can go a long way to helping you be successful.
Free eBooks (Can Be Downloaded):
Gordon Chavunduka - Witchcraft And The Law In ZimbabweAnonymous - Witchcraft Dictionary
Jaroslav Nemec - Witchcraft And Medicine
Louise Huebner - Witchcraft For All
Isaac Bonewits - Witchcraft A Concise Guide
