Native American Church

Native American Church, a religious denomination which practices Peyotism or Peyote religion, originated in the U.S. state of Oklahoma, and is the most widespread indigenous religion among Native Americans. Peyotism involves the use of the entheogen peyote, a spineless cactus with hallucinogenic effects. Peyotist belief varies considerably from tribe to tribe. Among the various beliefs are: belief in Jesus as a Native American culture hero, an intercessor for man or a spiritual guardian; belief in the Bible; belief in Peyote personified as a God; and association of Jesus with Peyote. Peyotists believe in a supreme God as well as several lesser gods or spirits. The "Peyote Road" calls for Indian brotherly love (i.e Indian Nationalism), family care, self-support through work, avoidance of alcohol, and avoidance of recreational drug use. The peyote ritual normally begins at 8 p.m. Saturday and continues through the night. The ritual includes prayer, eating of peyote, Peyote songs, water rituals, and contemplation. It ends with breakfast Sunday morning. The peyote ritual is believed to allow communion with Gods and the deceased and to give power, guidance, and healing. The healing may be emotional or physical, or both.