Exploring The International Church Of Cannabis: A Unique Spiritual Movement?

Author Lam 07 Feb 2025

Have you ever heard of a spiritual movement that embraces cannabis as a sacred element of its practice? The International Church of Cannabis, located in Denver, Colorado, is exactly that—a one-of-a-kind organization blending spirituality, art, and the ritualistic use of cannabis. Founded in 2017, this unconventional church has sparked both curiosity and controversy, drawing attention from around the globe. Its mission revolves around promoting cannabis as a tool for enlightenment, creativity, and healing, while also advocating for the decriminalization and responsible use of the plant.

The International Church of Cannabis operates under the belief that cannabis can deepen one's connection to the divine and foster a sense of community among its members. The church's founders, including Steve Berke, Lee Molloy, and Bobby Jones, envisioned a space where individuals could explore their spirituality in a judgment-free environment. The church’s members, known as "Elevationists," gather for ceremonies that incorporate meditation, music, and the sacramental consumption of cannabis. While the church has faced legal challenges and skepticism from critics, it continues to grow its congregation and advocate for broader societal acceptance of cannabis.

Despite its unconventional approach, the International Church of Cannabis has become a symbol of the evolving cultural and legal landscape surrounding cannabis. It represents a bridge between spirituality and activism, encouraging open conversations about the plant's role in modern society. Whether you’re intrigued by its spiritual teachings, its advocacy work, or its bold stance on cannabis legalization, the International Church of Cannabis offers a fascinating lens through which to explore the intersection of faith, culture, and law.

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What Is the International Church of Cannabis?
The Founders and Their Vision
How Does the Church Incorporate Cannabis?
Legal Challenges and Controversies
Can Cannabis Really Enhance Spirituality?
The Role of Art and Community
What Does the Future Hold for the Church?
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the International Church of Cannabis?

The International Church of Cannabis is a Denver-based spiritual organization that views cannabis as a sacred plant with the potential to elevate human consciousness. Established in 2017, the church operates on the principle that cannabis can serve as a catalyst for spiritual growth, creativity, and personal transformation. Unlike traditional religious institutions, the church does not adhere to a specific deity or dogma. Instead, it encourages members to explore their own spiritual paths while incorporating cannabis into their practices.

At the heart of the church’s philosophy is the concept of "Elevationism," a term coined by its founders to describe the use of cannabis as a means to achieve higher states of awareness. Elevationists believe that cannabis can help individuals connect with their inner selves, foster empathy, and promote a sense of unity with the universe. The church’s ceremonies, which often include guided meditations, live music, and communal cannabis consumption, are designed to facilitate these experiences. While some critics dismiss the church as a thinly veiled attempt to legalize recreational cannabis use, its members argue that their practices are deeply rooted in spiritual traditions that predate modern legal frameworks.

One of the church’s most distinctive features is its emphasis on inclusivity. The International Church of Cannabis welcomes individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their religious or cultural backgrounds. This openness has helped the church attract a diverse congregation, ranging from spiritual seekers to cannabis enthusiasts. By positioning itself as a bridge between spirituality and activism, the church has also become a platform for advocating cannabis reform and social justice. Its unique approach has garnered both praise and criticism, but one thing is certain: the International Church of Cannabis is reshaping the conversation around cannabis and spirituality.

The Founders and Their Vision

The International Church of Cannabis owes its existence to the vision and determination of its founders: Steve Berke, Lee Molloy, and Bobby Jones. Each of these individuals brought unique perspectives and experiences to the table, shaping the church into the groundbreaking institution it is today. Their shared belief in the transformative power of cannabis and their desire to challenge societal norms laid the foundation for the church’s mission and values.

Biographical Details of the Founders

Name	Role	Background	Key Contributions
Steve Berke	Co-Founder	A comedian and filmmaker known for his unconventional ideas and creative projects.	Conceptualized the church and its mission; led fundraising efforts.
Lee Molloy	Co-Founder	A cannabis activist with a deep interest in spirituality and alternative healing practices.	Developed the church’s spiritual framework and outreach programs.
Bobby Jones	Co-Founder	An entrepreneur with a background in marketing and business development.	Managed the church’s branding and operational logistics.

Together, these founders envisioned a space where cannabis could be celebrated not just as a recreational substance but as a tool for personal and collective growth. Their diverse backgrounds in entertainment, activism, and business allowed them to approach the church’s development from multiple angles, ensuring its sustainability and relevance in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.

What Inspired the Founders to Create the Church?

The idea for the International Church of Cannabis was born out of a desire to challenge the stigma surrounding cannabis and to provide a safe, spiritual space for its use. Steve Berke, a comedian by trade, was inspired by the potential of cannabis to foster creativity and connection. Lee Molloy, a long-time cannabis advocate, saw the plant as a bridge between ancient spiritual practices and modern healing modalities. Bobby Jones, with his entrepreneurial acumen, recognized the opportunity to create a movement that could inspire change on both a personal and societal level.

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The founders’ vision was not just about creating a church but about sparking a broader conversation about cannabis and its role in society. They believed that by framing cannabis use within a spiritual context, they could help shift public perception and contribute to the ongoing push for legalization and decriminalization. Their efforts have not only led to the establishment of a thriving community but also positioned the International Church of Cannabis as a thought leader in the global cannabis movement.

How Does the Church Incorporate Cannabis?

The International Church of Cannabis integrates cannabis into its practices in a way that is both intentional and deeply symbolic. For members of the church, cannabis is not merely a recreational substance but a sacred tool that enhances spiritual experiences and fosters a sense of connection. The church’s ceremonies, often referred to as "elevations," are carefully designed to create an environment where participants can explore their inner worlds and connect with something greater than themselves.

During these ceremonies, participants gather in a serene, art-filled space that serves as the church’s sanctuary. The rituals typically begin with a guided meditation or prayer, followed by the communal consumption of cannabis. Members are encouraged to bring their own cannabis products, ensuring that they can tailor the experience to their personal preferences. The church provides a judgment-free environment where individuals can consume cannabis in a mindful and respectful manner, whether through smoking, vaping, or edibles.

The incorporation of cannabis into these rituals is rooted in the belief that the plant can heighten sensory awareness and deepen introspection. Many members report feeling a heightened sense of empathy, creativity, and spiritual clarity during these ceremonies. Music and art often play a significant role in the experience, with live performances and visual installations adding to the immersive atmosphere. By blending cannabis with these elements, the church creates a holistic experience that appeals to both the mind and the spirit.

Why Is Cannabis Considered Sacred in This Context?

The designation of cannabis as a sacred plant within the International Church of Cannabis is not arbitrary. The church draws inspiration from ancient cultures and spiritual traditions that have long revered cannabis for its healing and transformative properties. For example, cannabis has been used in religious ceremonies in India, China, and the Middle East for thousands of years, often as a means of achieving altered states of consciousness or connecting with the divine.

By framing cannabis as a sacred element, the church challenges modern perceptions of the plant as a mere recreational drug. Instead, it positions cannabis as a tool for personal and collective growth, capable of fostering deeper connections with oneself, others, and the universe. This perspective aligns with the church’s broader mission to promote mindfulness, compassion, and social change through the responsible use of cannabis.

Legal Challenges and Controversies

Despite its noble intentions, the International Church of Cannabis has faced significant legal challenges and controversies since its inception. One of the most pressing issues has been navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding cannabis use. While recreational cannabis is legal in Colorado, the church’s practices have raised questions about the boundaries between religious freedom and state regulations. Critics argue that the church’s use of cannabis is a thinly veiled attempt to circumvent laws, while supporters maintain that the church’s activities are protected under the First Amendment.

In 2017, shortly after its opening, the church found itself at the center of a legal battle when Denver authorities issued citations for public cannabis consumption. The church’s founders defended their practices, arguing that cannabis use during ceremonies was a protected religious activity. This legal challenge highlighted the ongoing tension between cannabis reform advocates and law enforcement agencies, as well as the broader societal debate about the plant’s role in public and private spaces.

What Are the Legal Implications for the Church?

The legal implications for the International Church of Cannabis are multifaceted. On one hand, the church’s activities raise questions about the limits of religious freedom in the context of cannabis use. While the First Amendment protects the free exercise of religion, courts have historically been cautious about granting exemptions to drug laws, even for religious purposes. This has left the church in a precarious position, as it seeks to balance its spiritual mission with compliance with local regulations.

On the other hand, the church’s legal battles have brought attention to the broader issue of cannabis reform. By challenging existing laws, the church has become a symbol of the ongoing struggle for cannabis legalization and decriminalization. Its efforts have sparked conversations about the need for updated policies that reflect the evolving cultural and scientific understanding of cannabis. Whether the church ultimately succeeds in securing legal protections for its practices remains to be seen, but its impact on the cannabis movement is undeniable.

Can Cannabis Really Enhance Spirituality?

The question of whether cannabis can enhance spirituality is a topic of ongoing debate among researchers, theologians, and practitioners. Proponents of the International Church of Cannabis argue that the plant has the potential to deepen one’s spiritual experiences, citing both anecdotal evidence and historical precedents. Critics, however, remain skeptical, questioning whether the effects of cannabis are truly transformative or simply a byproduct of altered brain chemistry.

From a scientific perspective, cannabis contains compounds like THC and CBD that interact with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, potentially influencing mood, perception, and cognition. These effects can create a sense of heightened awareness, relaxation, and introspection, which some individuals interpret as a spiritual experience. Studies have also shown that cannabis can reduce anxiety and promote feelings of empathy, qualities that align with many spiritual practices.

What Do Experts Say About Cannabis and Spirituality?

Experts in the fields of psychology and religious studies offer mixed opinions on the relationship between cannabis and spirituality. Some researchers argue that the plant’s ability to alter consciousness can facilitate profound insights and emotional breakthroughs, making it a valuable tool for spiritual exploration. Others caution against over-reliance on external substances, emphasizing the importance of cultivating inner awareness through traditional practices like meditation and prayer.

Ultimately, the impact of cannabis on spirituality may vary from person to person. For some, it may serve as a gateway to deeper self-awareness and connection, while for others, it may simply enhance relaxation or creativity. The International Church of Cannabis provides a unique platform for individuals to explore these possibilities in a supportive and intentional setting.

The Role of Art and Community

Art and community are central to the identity of the International Church of Cannabis. The church’s sanctuary is adorned with vibrant murals, sculptures, and installations created by local and international artists. These works of art not only beautify the space but also serve as a reflection of the church’s values, celebrating creativity, inclusivity, and the transformative power of cannabis.

The church’s emphasis on community is equally significant. By fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose, the church has attracted a diverse congregation that spans generations

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