The Promises and Pitfalls of Psychedelic Use Among Religious Leaders.

Religious leaders who use psychedelics report both spiritual benefits and professional risks, according to interviews with 20 clergy members. The experiences deepened personal faith and empathy but also created tensions with congregations and denominational authorities who often view psychedelic use as illicit or incompatible with religious leadership. Participants described navigating secrecy, fear of career repercussions, and a lack of institutional support. The findings suggest that while psychedelics can enhance religious leaders' spiritual lives, the stigma and legal status of these substances pose significant professional and ethical challenges.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The Promises and Pitfalls of Psychedelic Use Among Religious Leaders.