The International Church of Cannabis

Page Details

Page author: ChatGPT

This page created on: 18/10/2020

Last modified: 08/06/2024

Abstract

The International Church of Cannabis is a religious group based in Denver, Colorado, USA, which uses cannabis during its ceremonies in order to help members have a better understanding of themselves.

The 2024 OCRS survey is extended! Hurray! You can access it here: https://forms.gle/VwxYBaFhQLtbTiqy5

Traditions

elevationism  new religious movements  entheogens 

Introduction

The International Church of Cannabis is a religious group based in Denver, Colorado, USA, which uses cannabis during its ceremonies in order to help members have a better understanding of themselves.

The church is unaffiliated with any other religious traditions, but its members are not restricted in any way - the church is viewed as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, a person’s religious identity.

…there is no need to convert to Elevationism. It claims no divine law, no unquestionable doctrine, and no authoritarian structure.

elevationists.org

Elevationism is a modern spiritual movement that intertwines religious practice with the use of cannabis. Originating in the 21st century, Elevationism posits that cannabis can be a sacrament, aiding in personal and spiritual growth by elevating the mind and spirit. This movement aims to provide a closer connection to the divine through the psychoactive effects of cannabis.

Origins and Beliefs

Foundation

Elevationism was founded by Steve Berke and other cannabis advocates who saw the potential of the plant in spiritual contexts. The International Church of Cannabis, established in Denver, Colorado, in 2017, serves as the movement’s central hub. The church is both a place of worship and a community center for those who share these beliefs.

Core Tenets

  1. Cannabis as a Sacrament: Elevationists believe that cannabis is a tool for spiritual growth and personal insight. The psychoactive effects of cannabis are seen as a way to elevate consciousness and facilitate a deeper connection to one’s inner self and the universe.

  2. Personal Spirituality: Elevationism does not adhere to a rigid set of doctrines. Instead, it encourages personal spirituality and the exploration of one’s own path. The movement is inclusive, welcoming individuals from various religious backgrounds and beliefs.

  3. Community and Fellowship: Community is a vital aspect of Elevationism. The International Church of Cannabis and similar organizations provide spaces for members to gather, share experiences, and support one another in their spiritual journeys.

Practices

Services and Rituals

Elevationist services often include communal cannabis consumption, meditation, and discussions on spiritual topics. These gatherings aim to create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their spirituality while experiencing the effects of cannabis.

Art and Expression

Art plays a significant role in Elevationism. The International Church of Cannabis, for example, features vibrant murals and art installations that reflect the movement’s values and the transformative power of cannabis. These artistic expressions are intended to inspire and elevate the minds of those who visit.

Elevationism faces various legal challenges due to the complex legal status of cannabis. While cannabis use is legal in some areas, it remains prohibited in others. This creates a challenging landscape for Elevationist communities, particularly in regions where cannabis use is heavily regulated or banned.

Social Perception

The movement also grapples with social stigma associated with cannabis use. Despite growing acceptance and legalization, many still view cannabis negatively, complicating the public perception of Elevationism as a legitimate spiritual practice.

Further Reading

For more detailed information on Elevationism and the International Church of Cannabis, consider the following resources:

These sources offer comprehensive insights into the origins, beliefs, and practices of Elevationism, as well as its role in contemporary spiritual discourse.

References

Image Credits

Photo by Nicole Geri on Unsplash

Register for updates

Support the site

If you find the resources on this site helpful, please consider a small donation - it makes a big difference! You can also share your thoughts and suggestions, which are always welcome.

Buy Me A Coffee

See also

Search

Report

Top