The Church of Spiritual Humanism

On July 15, 2025, my “Experiment in Authority” took a turn toward the cerebral. I became an ordained minister with The Church of Spiritual Humanism, an organization that blends science, reason, and a profound reverence for the natural world into something that feels almost paradoxically sacred.

This ordination appeals to those of us who believe that morality and meaning can exist without the supernatural—that the sheer “awe” of existence is divine enough. It offers a sincere way to serve others through ceremony, reminding me that the most important rites of passage don’t require dogmatic gatekeeping; they require human connection.

Documentation for the Mind

My credentials arrived in July, consisting of a clean, professional Certificate and ID card. In a collection that includes “Abiding Fish” and “Noodly Appendages,” the Church of Spiritual Humanism stands out for its quiet, dignified aesthetic. It is a favorite among officiants who serve interfaith, mixed-belief, or non-religious couples—people seeking a ceremony that is heartfelt and solemn but free from traditional dogma.

The Human Miracle

For the purposes of navigating Virginia’s strict laws, this ordination adds a crucial layer to the conversation. It challenges the idea that a “religious society” must be based on a deity or a specific ancient text to be valid. By leaning into the idea that being human is “miracle enough,” this church suggests that the state’s preference for traditional “brick-and-mortar” piety might be overlooking a vast community of people who find their “congregation” in shared values, logic, and compassion.

This step in my journey served as a vital reminder: faith isn’t always about heaven or hierarchy. Sometimes, it’s about how we treat each other down here. It is proof that compassion, logic, and ceremony can share the same altar—and that enlightenment, too, comes with proper documentation.