The Psychedelic Megachurch: How the Church of Ambrosia is Redefining Spirituality and Substance Use

San Francisco, CA – The Church of Ambrosia is not your typical place of worship. In just a few short years, this unconventional church has rapidly grown into a spiritual behemoth, amassing over 115,000 members across the Bay Area. But what sets this church apart isn't just its size—it's the sacrament it offers: psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms.

Founded by Pastor Dave Hodges in 2019, the Church of Ambrosia has positioned itself at the intersection of spirituality and psychedelics, challenging traditional notions of religious practice and community. With its roots in Oakland and a thriving new location in San Francisco, this “psychedelic megachurch” is redefining what it means to belong to a religious community in the 21st century.

Hodges, who sees distributing psilocybin as his spiritual calling, has faced numerous challenges, including legal threats and internal controversies. Despite this, the church’s membership has exploded, growing by 35,000 members since its expansion into San Francisco last year.

This rapid growth reflects a broader cultural shift as more Americans seek alternative forms of spirituality and question the legal and ethical boundaries surrounding psychedelic use.

At the heart of the Church of Ambrosia’s appeal is its unique approach to spirituality. Unlike traditional religious institutions that rely on prayer or ritual, Ambrosia offers its members a direct, mind-altering experience through psilocybin. Hodges believes that these powerful substances can help individuals connect with a higher power, offering spiritual insights that are otherwise inaccessible.

Members of the church can choose from a variety of psilocybin products, including raw mushrooms, infused chocolates, and even vape pens containing N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (N,N-DMT), a potent psychedelic compound found in ayahuasca. These offerings are presented not just as recreational drugs but as sacred tools for spiritual growth and healing.

The Church of Ambrosia’s approach to community is as unconventional as its sacraments. Unlike traditional congregations that gather for weekly services, Ambrosia’s members are united by their shared experiences with psychedelics. This has created a new type of religious community, one that is less about doctrine and more about personal transformation.

Hodges envisions expanding this community even further, with plans to establish a megachurch that could accommodate thousands of congregants. This ambitious vision underscores the church’s goal to become a central hub for those seeking spiritual awakening through psychedelics.

But the church's rapid growth and unorthodox practices have not been without controversy. Critics within the psychedelic community argue that Ambrosia’s open-door policy, which allows almost anyone to access these powerful substances, is reckless. Others question the authenticity of its religious claims, suggesting that the church’s primary focus is on drug distribution rather than fostering genuine spiritual connections.

Operating in a legal gray area, the Church of Ambrosia has so far managed to avoid significant legal repercussions. While psilocybin remains illegal under federal law, cities like Oakland and San Francisco have passed resolutions to deprioritize the policing of psychedelic substances. This has allowed Ambrosia to flourish, even as it pushes the boundaries of what is legally and socially acceptable.

Hodges is well aware of the risks but remains steadfast in his mission. He has implemented rigorous safety protocols, including a cutting-edge psilocybin testing program to ensure the purity and potency of the church’s products. This level of care, Hodges argues, is essential for maintaining the safety and well-being of his members.

The Church of Ambrosia represents a growing movement that blends ancient spiritual practices with modern psychedelics. As it continues to expand, it challenges conventional ideas about religion, community, and the role of psychedelics in society. Hodges’ vision of a psychedelic megachurch may seem radical, but it reflects a deep desire for new forms of spiritual expression in an increasingly secular world.

As more people turn to psychedelics for spiritual and therapeutic purposes, the Church of Ambrosia is likely to remain at the forefront of this cultural shift. Whether it will ultimately be embraced as a legitimate religious institution or face greater scrutiny from authorities remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the Church of Ambrosia is redefining what it means to seek the divine in the modern era.

Do you think psychedelic substances like psilocybin should be part of modern religious practices?