Members of the International Church of Cannabis are known as Elevationists. Through ritual, guided by spiritual practice, church members use the sacred flower to reveal the best version of self, discover a creative voice and enrich their community with the fruits of that creativity. Unlike other belief systems, there is no need to convert to Elevationism. It claims no divine law, no unquestionable doctrine, and no authoritarian structure.
DENVER, CO – APRIL 20: Jimmy Smrz sits quietly during a minute of silence at exactly 4:20pm in the sanctuary of the new International Church of Cannabis as he joins other guests for the 4/20 celebration services at the church on April 20, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. The unique church chose the popular day and event to open their doors to the public. The members of this new church call themselves Elevationists and say that the use of cannabis helps elevate people to a higher form of themselves. (Photo by Helen H. Richardson/The Denver Post)DENVER, CO – APRIL 20: Andrea Camp, left, of Chicago, hugs Kimm Miller, right, from Lakewood, as she smokes from a pipe as the two participate in 4/20 celebration services at the International Church of Cannabis on April 20, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. The unique church used the popular event to open their doors to the public. The members of this new church call themselves Elevationists and say that the use of cannabis helps elevate people to a higher form of themselves. (Photo by Helen H. Richardson/The Denver Post)