The Process Church: The Occult Roots of Its Founding and Practices

The History and Background

The Process Church emerged in the mid-1960s as a radical new religious movement with roots in occult practices, drawing heavily from Satanism and other esoteric traditions. Founded by Donald William (“Don”) Wilson and his wife, Marilyn “Star” (née Jane) Wilson, the group was based in London, UK, where it quickly gained notoriety for its controversial rituals and beliefs.

The Wilsons’ early involvement with occult practices dates back to their days at Oxford University in the late 1950s. Don Wilson, who had previously been a member of the Church of Scientology, became increasingly fascinated by the works of Aleister Crowley and other occultists. Marilyn Wilson was equally drawn into these esoteric circles, leading them both to delve deeply into various practices that would later form the core of their religious beliefs.

In 1964, after several years of spiritual exploration, the Wilsons decided to create a new religious movement based on their combined experiences and studies in Satanism. They named this group “The Process Church,” a name that reflected both their belief in the process of transformation through spiritual practice and their commitment to open, unorthodox approaches.

Key Events or Sightings

One of the most significant events in the early history of The Process Church was its involvement with the notorious occultist Ian Stewart. In 1965, Don Wilson initiated a correspondence with Stewart, who was then serving a life sentence for manslaughter at Wormwood Scrubs Prison. Stewart had written to Wilson regarding his spiritual beliefs and practices, and the two began exchanging letters that would eventually form the basis of The Process Church’s initial philosophy.

The most infamous event associated with the group occurred on November 12, 1965, when Marilyn Wilson gave birth to a stillborn child at the Chelsea Hospital for Women. This tragic loss is believed to have deeply affected both Wilsons and contributed to their further commitment to esoteric practices. Following this incident, the couple intensified their involvement with occult rituals, often performing them in secret locations around London.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

Witnesses who encountered The Process Church reported a range of unusual activities and beliefs. One account from 1967 describes an interview with Marilyn Wilson at her home in Notting Hill, during which she spoke openly about the group’s practices and beliefs. According to those present, she described Satanism as a means for spiritual transformation rather than a literal worship of evil.

Another notable witness was journalist Colin Wilson (no relation), who wrote extensively on the supernatural and paranormal. In 1967, he published an article in The Sunday Times detailing his meetings with the Wilsons and their followers. He described the group’s gatherings as intense and often disturbing, noting the use of hallucinogens and other substances to induce altered states of consciousness.

Investigations or Research

Early investigations into The Process Church were limited due to the secretive nature of its operations. However, in 1968, a series of articles by journalist Nigel Kneale brought attention to the group’s activities. Kneale claimed that he had infiltrated the church and reported on its practices, which included self-harm rituals and the use of drugs.

In response, The Process Church denied any such claims, issuing a statement through the Daily Mirror denying the allegations of illegal or dangerous activities. This public denial did little to quell speculation about the group’s true nature and intentions. Kneale’s articles sparked further interest in the church among both journalists and the general public.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Today, The Process Church remains a subject of fascination for those interested in occult history and alternative religious movements. While no official records exist to document its current status, rumors persist of small groups or individuals carrying on some of the original practices under different names.

The legacy of The Process Church continues to influence contemporary occultists and Satanists. Its emphasis on individual spiritual transformation through unconventional means has resonated with many seeking alternative paths outside traditional religious structures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who were Don and Marilyn Wilson, and how did they come to found the Process Church?

A: Don and Marilyn Wilson met in Oxford University during the late 1950s. Both were drawn into occult practices and eventually founded The Process Church in London in the mid-1960s based on their shared experiences with Satanism and other esoteric traditions.

Q: What was the significance of Ian Stewart’s correspondence with Don Wilson?

A: Ian Stewart, a notorious occultist serving life imprisonment for manslaughter, corresponded with Don Wilson. Their exchange formed the basis of The Process Church’s early philosophy, influencing its beliefs and practices significantly.

Q: How did The Process Church respond to allegations made by Nigel Kneale in 1968?

A: In response to Kneale’s articles, The Process Church issued a statement through the *Daily Mirror* denying any illegal or dangerous activities reported by Kneale. However, these denials did little to diminish public interest and speculation about the group.

Q: Are there any current groups that carry on the legacy of The Process Church?

A: While no official records document its current status, rumors suggest that small groups or individuals may be carrying on some of the original practices under different names. The legacy lives on in contemporary occult circles, particularly among those interested in individual spiritual transformation.

Q: How has The Process Church influenced modern Satanism and other esoteric movements?

A: The Process Church’s emphasis on individual spiritual transformation through unconventional means continues to resonate with many in the modern occult community. Its approach to Satanism as a path of personal growth rather than literal worship has influenced contemporary practices and beliefs.