A church centered around the worship of the penis
Founder: Reverend D. F. Cassidy
Founded: 1970s
Location: United States (originally Vancouver, Canada)
Other Names: Church of the Holy Phallus
The St. Priapus Church, also known as the Temple of Priapus, is a North American new religious movement founded in the late 1970s and early 1980s, centered primarily around the worship of the phallus. Named after Priapus, the Greek god of fertility known for his oversized, permanent erection, the church regards the phallus as a symbol of life, beauty, joy, and pleasure. The deity’s iconography and myths emphasize his sexual nature and protective qualities, traits that have been adopted and adapted by the church in its rituals and theology.
The movement was officially established by D.F. Cassidy in Montreal, Quebec, following the inspiration Cassidy found in a similar, short-lived group in San Francisco, California, initiated in the early 1970s. This establishment marks the revival of ancient practices of Priapus worship that had persisted subtly through European history.
The central tenet of St. Priapus Church is the veneration of the phallus. The organization regards the male genitals as a symbol of divine power and a source of life, pleasure, and beauty. Members of the church, known as “Priapists,” believe in the sanctity of the phallus, and venerate it through various sexual acts, which are considered forms of worship. Activities such as group masturbation and fellatio are not only encouraged but seen as sacramental acts that contribute to peace and social harmony, reflecting the church’s unique blend of spirituality and sexuality. Semen is revered as a holy substance, embodying spiritual potency and is treated with great respect within the context of their rituals.
Membership in the church is notably diverse, although it primarily attracts gay and bisexual men. The organization’s presence spans across North America with multiple centers in both Canada and the United States, demonstrating a significant following despite its niche appeal. The church also holds a variety of events and gatherings that strengthen community ties and promote its distinctive theological views.
The St. Priapus Church exemplifies a modern revival and reinterpretation of ancient fertility cults, integrating historical religious elements with contemporary spiritual and social concerns, particularly those relating to the LGBTQ+ community and sexual liberation. This movement highlights the intersection of religion and sexuality, challenging conventional norms and advocating for a broader acceptance of diverse sexual expressions as sacred and meaningful.
image via Vice
