Chris Conrad

Cris Conrad is a court qualified cannabis expert witness, long-time cannabis advocate, author of a Newbie's Guide to Cannabis and the Industry and the founder of Cantheism. On a whim I looked up cannabis religions online because I was not really familiar with any besides Rastarianism. This is how I became aware of Cantheism. On this episode we explore Chris's history of being a political activist and how in 1988 he focused his attention on creating a business alliance for the hemp industry, medical marijuana and the adult use of marijuana. He thought it would take five years. It was not until 2016 that California users passed Proposistion 64 permitting California adults over the age of 21 to possess and grow marijuana. Colorado was the first state to pass a similar law in 2012. Currently there are 14 states that have legalized marijuana (16 have decriminalized), 15 if you include the District of Columbia. Chris reflects on his own journey to contribute to this remarkable political achievement. Ultimately, we land on the subject of Cantheism and the sacred principles of the cannabis plant. Cantheism was founded in 1995 by Chris Conrad. Chris shares his own spiritual journey from a Catholic altar boy to seminarian and what eventually led to his first use of marijuana in 1969. On his website, Chris describes Canthiesm as follows: "Cantheism is an ecumenical practice that does not discriminate against any individual’s core religious values or beliefs. We are connected by the holy smoke that we share. Cantheism is based on sincere personal belief and intent. Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Jew, Atheist, Skeptic, animist, Pantheist and persons of all faiths, who receive cannabis in thanksgiving and prayer, are welcome to congregate and share sacrament." and the Cantheist Creed: "We Believe that Cannabis sativa, L., is the Useful Cane and the True Hemp. Therefore, we honor it with high honor. Cannabis Hemp is a restorative natural resource for all to grow, share and use. Humanity has a unique and shared history with this plant. Therefore, we bring cannabis into our lives. Cannabis Hemp is endowed with safe and effective healing powers, some of which remain unexplained. Therefore, we offer cannabis to ease suffering and add balance to life. Cannabis Hemp is an intuitive sacrament we use to connect with ourselves and our community. Therefore, we share cannabis in thanksgiving and deep respect for her resinous effect. The virtuous cultivation and dissemination of cannabis are honorable professions. Therefore we act with integrity and honesty to safeguard fellow Cantheists. Inhale and pass it on. Cannamaste." The Kotahitanga Church of Cantheism of New Zealand's first commandment is: "I will share my faith, but not be obnoxious about it." Beautifully said. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I had recording it. Cannamaste To find out more about Chris Conrad and Cantheism, please visit: http://cantheism.org