Christianity and other Mainstream Religions Endorse Entheogens
Ayahuasca and other entheogens provide a sacred or mystical experience that strengthens religious faith, according to mainstream religious scholars. In Canada, Fr. Geoffrey Ready at the University of Toronto, School of Theology, teaches an Orthodox Christian seminary course – Mystical Traditions and the Sacred Journey of Transformation: Narrative, Ritual, and Entheogens. From the course description:
As we examine the rich history of Christian mystical experience and parallels within other ancient spiritual traditions, we will recognize the special role of entheogens, or sacred fungus and plant medicines, alongside other practices, in facilitating or deepening transcendent experience. We will examine the potential role of entheogens in mystical encounters today, mindful of both ethical considerations and diverse perspectives on their usage. (link)
In South America people can attend Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, African-based, Shamanic and other similarly-themed religious ayahuasca centers. All co-exist quite peacefully and there are thousands of ayahuasca churches in the Amazon basin and beyond. Many of these religions including Santo Daime and UDV are now found in most countries around the world.
Other Religious Use of Entheogens (links):
Ligare: A Christian Psychedelic Society (link). Shefa – Jewish Psychedelic Society (link). Entheogens and the Ancient Mystery Religions (link) Enthomedia: Entheogens and human spirituality: (link).