Despite the name, the International Church of Cannabis isn’t just about smoking weed. Since opening in Denver during 2017, the church has received mixed reviews.
While many people view the church as a place of spirituality, self-discovery, and healing, others aren’t so receptive.
RELATED: Weed Weddings- How Brides Are Adding Bud To Their Big Day
News anchors have covered the story, making jokes about church-goers eating Cheetos and about church leaders boring the crowd with their drawn-out, philosophical ideas. Others say that the church is just an excuse for people to smoke pot.
However, this institution is more than meets the eye. While they do cater to cannabis users and Elevationists (those searching for meaning and self-discovery using cannabis) the organization also works to promote art, peace, community, and education.
In fact, the International Church of Cannabis opens its doors to members of all religions. Unlike other religious organizations, they claim no divine law, and welcome anyone who wishes to participate.
The founders of the church work hard to get involved in community events. They have donated clothing to the homeless, conducted neighborhood street cleanings, donated resources to charities, and collected ‘toys for tots.’
RELATED: How To Use Weed For A Super Calming, At-Home Yoga Session
The church also holds charity events, fundraisers, educational talks, music, entertainment, and weddings– all of which are organized by an official event planner.
The International Church of Cannabis is open on the weekends for visitors to admire the murals and artwork. Through donations and the sale of on-site merchandise (they are not legally permitted to sell marijuana) the church is funded.
While speaking to the church Co-founder, Lee Molloy, we asked what the typical church service looks like.
“For the most part, our services look just like regular church, but with less dogma and a bit more cannabis,” said Molloy.
As for the members, they aren’t exactly the classic ‘stoner’ type that many would expect. Molloy shared that the church goers are made up of all sorts of people; mothers, business people, professionals, grandmothers, those suffering from chronic illnesses, and more.
How does one become an Elevationist and member of the church? By simply agreeing to the basic tenets of Elevationism, says Molloy.
“We ask that members accept that cannabis can be a part of the spiritual or transcendental journey, agree with the wisdom of the Golden Rule, and understand that spiritual paths are individual, therefore, to not judge others unless they wish to be judged.”
As for his goals for the church, Molloy hopes to continue to provide a place for cannabis users to find a spiritual sanctuary and home.
“We will continue to prove that cannabis consumers are good citizens and actors in their community. And, we will become a worldwide beacon for those who are oppressed for their use of the sacrament.”
Molloy also predicts that The International Church of Cannabis will spread around both the U.S and the world.
So, if you happen to be visiting Denver, Colorado, you may want to stop in. Even if you don’t partake, it’s a great place to view artwork and engage with a community who are just looking for peace and healing, just like everyone else.
RELATED: This Company Is Leading The Way In Colorado Cannabis Tours