Since winning the Mega Millions jackpot last August, Ellwood “Bunky” Bartlett ? Maryland?s first known Wiccan lottery winner ? has used some of his winnings to create job opportunities in his various companies. Bartlett, 41, works about three days a week, reserving Thursday through Sunday for his family. The Carroll County resident is searching for land to build the church he has dreamed about for 20 years. The retired accountant also has his sights set on teaching a Wiccan 101 class.
What will the church be like?
The Willow Spring Sanctuary will be a pagan church, basically just like any other church but with a teaching component for various religions. It won?t matter if you?re Christian or Wiccan ? everyone will be able to come worship together.
Where will it be located?
Somewhere in Baltimore County. I?m still looking and I?m not sure how big it will be.
You have plans to teach a new Wicca class?
Yes. That starts in April and will be called Wiccan 101. It?ll be open to anyone who wishes to learn about the faith.
Are people usually skeptical about Wicca?
Some are unduly skeptical about the Wiccan faith. … Everyday people don?t have any idea what it is, tending to go along with what the media and TV shows say about it. But Wicca is a nature-based religion that uses earth, air, fire, water and energy to manifest one?s reality ? like me winning the lottery.
What indulgences have you had since winning?
I?ve traveled to Los Angeles and Las Vegas and a couple of other places. Next weekend I?m taking the family to the Grammy Awards show.
