International Church of Cannabis

Interior of the International Church of Cannabis. Halopigg/Used with Permission

A Lutheran church has stood at 400 S Logan Street in Denver since the early 1900s, but as of recently it has become unoccupied. In April of 2017, the church was reopened as a place of worship for the followers of a brand new religion: “Elevationism,” dedicated to the spiritual benefits of cannabis.

It’s only fitting that the home of the International Church of Cannabis is in Denver, a city that is literally a mile high. The church’s overgrown, antiquated exterior is in striking contrast with its flamboyant technicolor interior, complete with a huge “WEED” sign, rows of pews to smoke on, and a neon rainbow mural on the ceiling, which was painted by world-famous Spanish artist Okuda San Miguel.

Elevationism does not have any specific dogma, nor does it require conversion from other religions, so long as its adherents recognize cannabis as a sacrament.

The church was opened on April 20 (naturally) and recently launched BEYOND, a fully immersive, meditative experience with projection mapping, laser lights, and sound. BEYOND begins with a nine-minute guided meditation and contemplative journey through the wisdom of the ages, followed by a 25-minute psychedelic light show set to your favorite classic rock songs.

Know Before You Go

While many religions ban pot use, the International Church of Cannabis encourages it. Due to city law, however, cannabis cannot be consumed when the church is open to the general public for its BEYOND experience, which occurs every Friday through Monday from 12-8pm, and Tuesday through Thursday from 4-8pm..