FAQ

Who runs this?

We are a group of folks who take turns leading sections of the meetings (Quaker-style). We (mostly) met in a Queer Animist breakout group of Practical Animism, a course run through Ancestral Medicine. When the course ended, we wanted to stay in touch and continue practicing ritual together, and we opened up the invitation to anyone who would like to join. Rook (a White nonbinary trans person living on Tlingit land in Juneau, Alaska) is the current facilitator who holds the structure of the meetings, but ideally we will take turns with this role as well, voting in a new facilitator to serve each year.

I’ve never been before. Can I lead a section?

Yes! We encourage everyone to take a turn sharing at the meeting, even if it’s your first time! If you’re nervous or unsure about what’s expected, or just want to have a quick conversation first, please reach out to connect@animistchurch.org and we can set up a time to Zoom to walk you through it or answer any questions over email.

Is there a cost to attend?

No, one our members volunteer their time leading the meetings, making the website, moderating the facebook group, and the Zoom room is donated from a member as well. We do ask for a donation to a different organization each time we gather together, but it is optional, and no one is turned away for lack of funds.

Is this a religion?

For some of us, yes. We see life force in all things, like rocks and mountains and clouds. But an animist belief structure is not required to attend. You may just want to appreciate the natural beauty and express gratitude for the many gifts the Earth offers. Both are great. Belief in celestial beings or higher powers is not necessary to participate in this practice, and we try to keep celestial beings out of the discussion as much as possible. We are not associated with any religion or creed other than a love of the Earth.