Psychedelics & Spirituality: A Gateway or an Illusion?

May 30, 2025

Joe Welker, a pastor exploring the intersection of psychedelics and religion, shares his transformative experiences with these substances and their implications for faith. He discusses his journey of deconstruction and how psychedelics have shaped his understanding of spirituality. The conversation delves into the historical and ethical dimensions of using psychedelics within a Christian context, addressing biblical concerns and the role of personal experience in spiritual practices. Welker critiques the potential risks and the societal shift towards acceptance of psychedelics.

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ANECDOTE

Joe Welker's Spiritual Journey

Joe Welker shared his journey from a Christian upbringing through deconstruction and psychedelic experiences to a renewed faith.
Early psychedelic use was for consciousness exploration, later focused on healing through ceremonies like ayahuasca.

INSIGHT

Risks Hidden by Psychedelic Hype

The psychedelic community often downplays risks, ignoring serious long-term harms some users face.
There is a survivorship bias and groupthink minimizing these dangers despite evidence of harm.

INSIGHT

Psychedelic Movement's Strategic Push

Psychedelic advocacy has a strategic PR and political campaign to gain cultural acceptance, especially targeting religious groups.
Science and research are sometimes shaped by political and social agendas over pure truth-seeking.

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The collected poems of Thomas Merton

Thomas Merton

The Collected Poems of Thomas Merton is a comprehensive compilation of the poetic works of Thomas Merton, a Trappist monk known for his writings on spirituality, social justice, and peace. This collection showcases Merton's diverse poetic styles, ranging from contemplative and mystical verses to more politically engaged and experimental forms. Merton's poetry often explores themes of solitude, the search for God, and the complexities of modern life. The poems reflect his deep engagement with both Christian tradition and contemporary social issues, revealing a profound sense of empathy and a commitment to truth. Throughout the collection, Merton's voice is marked by honesty, vulnerability, and a persistent questioning of the self and the world. This compilation offers readers a comprehensive view of Merton's poetic vision and his enduring contribution to religious and literary thought.

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