
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of church is this?
We are an entheogenic church. The term, “Entheogen”, means “to manifest the divine within”. The sacraments we serve, Bufo and Niños Santos, do just that. We choose not to prescribe a set of doctrines or beliefs for you to adhere to in order to participate in ceremonies with us. You belong just as you are, right where you are, with whatever belief, or lack thereof, that you might have in the divine/universe, etc. Our role is to create a safe space for you to have profound, transformative experiences that result in a new way of being.
Our spiritual practice is protected under the Religious Freedom and Restoration Act of 1993 (“RFRA”) and further bolstered by the Supreme Court Ruling Gonzales v. O Centro Espírita Beneficente União do Vegetal, 546 U.S. 418 (2006).
This ruling, which involved an Ayahuasca Church, stated that the United States government is required to demonstrate a compelling interest in a court of law in order to interfere with an individual’s sincere free exercise of religion. With regards to our sacraments, these compelling interests are participant safety and prevention of diversion of the sacraments. As long as our sacraments are served in a sincere religious context, with measures to ensure safety and prevent diversion, it cannot be interfered with by any government agency.
Since this ruling, many entheogenic churches have formed across the USA and have operated publicly for many years. Subsequent rulings from lower courts have conformed to the Supreme Court Ruling. Also since the 2006 ruling, the safety profile for our sacraments has been further bolstered and is widely considered to be safe given certain parameters.
We are deeply grateful to those who have fought the legal battles necessary for it possible for us to serve our sacraments, specifically the NAC (Native American Church), the UDV (União do Vegetal), the Holy Light of the Queen Church.
Should I receive Bufo (5-MeO-DMT) or Mushrooms?
It really depends on what you are sensing. Bufo is shorter in duration and can be much more intense. Mushrooms are longer in duration and generally constitute a steadier experience. We will help you determine which sacrament would best suit you at this time in your life.
Can your sacraments help me with my disease or medical condition?
We are not doctors and do not give medical advice. We suggest that you consult a doctor if you have a particular disease or ailment that might interact with a ceremonial experience.
What if I have a negative experience?
This is a common fear many people have. Approaching the sacraments with a healthy mind and clear intentions changes everything. You will be supported by safe people within a safe space if any challenges arise. We have found that all of our experiences with the sacraments, whether we interpret them as “good” or “bad”, pleasant or unpleasant, have been useful for our awakening, learning and growth. We have seen the same in people who’ve faced any unpleasant aspects along their journey. They learned from it, transforming their suffering into an enlightened perspective. We will be present with you from start to finish, guiding and coaching you with various techniques around breathing/meditation, somatic cues and practices that will help you to accept whatever comes up. We will also guide you through the integration process after ceremony, helping you to live what you received in your day-to-day life.
Where are ceremonies located?
We are based in San Diego, California. We will also travel to you. If you’re in the SoCal region we will come to your home or rent an AirBnB (with increased cost to cover expenses). Oftentimes people desire the comfort and familiarity of their personal space. This can free people of distraction and allow a more relaxed vibe. However, some people desire to be away from their home because it is familiar - they want something new. If you’re on the fence, we will happily assist you in this decision.