A religious organization advocating cannabis as a sacred sacrament and fundamental human right, blending ancient traditions and modern perspectives.
The THC Ministry, also known as the Hawai’i Ministry of Cannabis Sacrament, is a religious organization founded in June 2000 by Roger Christie in Hawaii. This ministry considers cannabis to be a sacred sacrament and has established chapters in various countries, including Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and several states in the United States.
The fundamental belief of the THC Ministry is that the cultivation and enjoyment of cannabis is a human right provided by God and protected by the Constitution. They assert that cannabis has been the original sacrament in multiple religious traditions, including Hebrew, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Shinto, Buddhist, and Rastafari, fulfilling prophecies to “feed all our hungers.” The Ministry views cannabis as a key ingredient in the original Anointing Oil described in the Bible and as a substance used in burnt offerings at altars and on special occasions.
Members of the THC Ministry base their practices on a combination of ancient wisdom, modern science, and the enlightening and healing properties of cannabis. They aim to liberate both the cannabis plant and people’s minds, regardless of whether individuals revere the plant. The Ministry actively engages in legal and social discussions surrounding cannabis use in society.
The THC Ministry’s views have led to legal confrontations, particularly with the United States government. In July 2010, Roger Christie and other individuals associated with the Ministry were indicted on marijuana possession and trafficking charges. Christie served four years in jail following an April 2014 sentencing and remained on probation until 2018. To support its members who may face legal challenges, the Ministry provides a Cannabis Sanctuary Kit, which serves as a legal defense tool offering proof of legitimacy as a religious practitioner of Cannabis Sacrament.
The use of cannabis as a religious sacrament predates written history, with evidence of its sacred role found in various ancient religions. In the modern context, the THC Ministry, along with other organizations such as the International Church of Cannabis and the Church of Holy Smoke, represents the continuation of this ancient tradition. The THC Ministry has expanded its presence globally, becoming an officially registered religion in many countries across different continents. This international reach reflects the growing movement recognizing cannabis as a significant spiritual and religious element.
The THC Ministry stands at the intersection of ancient spiritual practices and modern cannabis advocacy. While it faces ongoing legal challenges, the organization continues to promote its beliefs and support its members in their use of cannabis as a sacrament. The ministry’s growth and persistence highlight the complex relationship between religious freedom, drug policy, and cultural attitudes towards cannabis use. Through its activities, the THC Ministry seeks to redefine the perception of cannabis, framing it not just as a recreational substance, but as a fundamental component of spiritual practice and religious freedom.
image via The New York Times
