Safety in Legal Worship

Legal worship creates a space where you can ask questions freely, engage in honest discussions, and—if necessary—call on legal authorities for assistance.

While Sacred Sacraments Ministry (SSM) provides a legal framework that fosters a sense of safety, the responsibility for your personal safety ultimately lies with you.

Choosing Safe Ceremonies and Participants

When participating in ceremonies, it is important to carefully consider both the ceremony itself and the people involved. Remember, no member is superior or inferior to you—everyone’s autonomy must be respected, including your own. Don’t allow anyone to undermine your judgment or personal boundaries, and don’t do so to others. Legal protections for religious worship allow for open communication, so if a guide is unwilling to engage in direct conversation or provide references, that could be a warning sign.

SSM offers a platform for individuals to engage in their religious practices, but aside from ministry certifications (which are limited to officiating weddings), SSM does not issue any form of certification, endorsement, or approval for anyone to lead ceremonies or interact with others in any capacity. Much like early Christian home-churches, individual members are free to plan and conduct ceremonies on their own, without oversight or coordination from a central authority. There is no hierarchy within SSM; all members are independent and autonomous. SSM does not perform sacramental ceremonies, and anyone claiming official authorization from SSM (aside from wedding ministers) is mistaken.

Wise and Safe Worship

True safety in worship involves practicing with discernment. If you’re new to psilocybin worship, it’s crucial to select guides and integration therapists who are experienced and well-trained. However, SSM does not train or certify these guides and therapists. Our focus is on destigmatizing religious use of psilocybin, which in turn encourages greater transparency and helps worshipers find qualified professionals. 

To identify safe guides and therapists, engage with the community, seek out professional credentials, and have candid conversations. It’s important to discuss both the trusted and untrustworthy guides openly. If necessary, issues should be reported to authorities to ensure the safety of the community.

Addressing Risks: Physical, Emotional, and Sexual Safety

It is vital to acknowledge the potential physical, emotional, and sexual dangers that can arise in any space, including psychedelic ones. Open communication, education, and accountability are key to minimizing these risks. SSM is committed to transparency and actively encourages honesty in addressing concerns. There should never be a hidden agenda in our community.

Worship can take many forms, and we encourage creativity and inspiration from divine guidance. Whether you choose a lighthearted, fun experience or prefer a more quiet, personal form of worship, the safety of the ceremony is paramount. While there are safe and unsafe ways to ingest psychedelic substances, SSM is committed to ensuring that ceremonies follow best practices, such as those outlined in the Trip Safe guidelines.

Sexual Safety Practices

Equally important are the sexual safety guidelines that must be followed in any ceremony. SSM adheres strictly to the RAINN (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants. Let there be no ambiguity on this point: NO sexual touching or interactions of any kind are allowed at an SSM worship ceremony. This rule applies not only during the ceremony but also in the aftermath. Ceremonies cannot lead to any future sexual encounters or advances.

SSM is not a place for individuals seeking romantic or sexual relationships. We are clear and firm about this—our community exists to support spiritual worship, not personal dating. This may sound strict, but we intentionally adopt this uncompromising stance to deter potential predators. If any individual does attempt to use SSM events for predatory purposes, our clear guidelines make it easier for the community to identify and protect others.

No Tolerance for Predators

SSM has no tolerance for predatory behavior. Our members come to us for safety, support, and healing—including from past trauma. Our space is not meant for anyone seeking sexual advances while engaged in worship. Members should be vigilant and protect each other, ensuring that safety remains at the forefront of our shared space.

Once again, SSM does not issue any form of certification or ordination, other than for wedding ministers. If anyone claims official certification, they are not speaking the truth. Protect yourself and those around you. In legal religious use, we are able to openly address these important matters and create a community of care and respect.

Report Assaults and Bad Behavior

Sexual assault and other misconduct should never be hidden or ignored. Unfortunately, such behavior does occur in some psychedelic spaces, but we will not tolerate it. If an assault occurs, we encourage victims to seek help, report the incident, and take steps toward recovery. Safety, respect, and accountability are our highest priorities.

Together, we can build a community where everyone feels secure and valued.