Author Topic: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)  (Read 36742 times)

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« on: March 11, 2016, 07:15:26 am »
From the thread about James "Flaming Eagle" Mooney:

trouble is a brewing. 

https://ayahuascahealings.com/ayahuasca-retreats-usa/

From that date on about all postings in that thread have been concerned with the so-called "Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church" and its wheelings and dealings. This outgrowth of the "Oklevueha Native American Church" is staffed by new gamers, especially one Trinity de Guzman, and I think a new thread is appropriate. May I suggest that the relevant posts in the other thread be merged with this one?

My information is not from primary sources, but it seems the Elbe group has run into some, er, problems and have been forced to suspend operations-- the way US Presidential candidates like Rick Santorum "suspend" their campaign. This has left clients who have already paid $1500 not only for retreat fees but also non-refundable airline tickets high and dry. OK, I meant just dry.

Now take a look at this PDF, especially the logos on top and signature below. I quote the text in full, in case it disappears:

https://ayahuascahealings.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Ayahuasca-Healings-Public-Statement-March-8th.pdf

Quote
ONAC – Ayahuasca Healings Church
Public Announcement
March 8th, 2016

Blessings to All,

The Ayahuasca Healings Family has a very important public announcement to make.

After careful consideration and in-depth discussions, our church representative counsel and board of members have come to the following unanimous decision. All of us strongly feel this is the best decision we can possibly make at this stage of our journey, to preserve the full effect, health, vitality and success of our mission and vision here together, for now and for the future.

Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC) will be going on a temporary hiatus and will therefore not be conducting ceremonies or holding retreats for a limited period of time. We cannot say for sure how long it will be, but we are confident that it will be brief.

The purpose of this pause in our operations is to illustrate our respect for and to take the necessary time to come into full alignment with the current governmental system and procedures that already exist and are in place. This is so that we can show our full open willingness to comply and be in complete balance with this system, and its petition processing requirements.

Our overall intention is to show that our church is entitled to the full protections granted by the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, or RFRA. As a result, we are presently working with the government to ensure that there is mutual trust and understanding between us. We firmly believe that to effectively propagate our faith and create the changes that are so vital to humanity’s present and future, we must work with the government in balance and harmony, not against it, whilst standing true to our beliefs and religious freedom of expression at the same time.

We are sincere in our desire to act within the confines of the law, and we have realized that in order to do so, we must make sure that the government and its agencies are in agreement with our religious practices, which, through the current communication channels already open with them, they appear to be.

Although AHNAC has repeatedly faced criticism from detractors who believe that our interpretation of the law as it currently stands is mistaken, we are 100% confident that what we are doing here is 100% legal.

Moreover, we have absolute faith that what we are doing is perfectly in keeping with our basic and foundational human rights and liberties as provided by, among other sources: the principles set forth in the Declaration of Independence; the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment; the Due Process Clauses of the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments; and the Natural and Spiritual Laws as set forth by the Creator.

To be clear, there have not been—nor do we anticipate—any arrests, indictments, or seizures of persons or property. In fact, to our knowledge, we have not even encountered any law enforcement agents. These are discussions only; there has been no threat of force or prosecution.

We fully expect that AHNAC will receive the government’s blessing in the form of an official recognition that AHNAC qualifies for exemption under the RFRA. We also feel confident that we will receive that blessing in a matter of weeks, whereupon we will resume holding the ceremonies and retreats that are so vital to our faith and our work here together.

Until then, we will continue to serve our community and our family, by dedicating our time and energy towards creating a selection of alternative and complimentary transformational services and programs that do not rely on the use of sacred plant medicines as religious sacraments to be effective in our healing, growth and heart- opening journey back to Oneness.

Although we deeply believe that the use of plant medicines is one of the fastest and most effective paths of healing back to wholeness, love, and acceptance with oneself, we advocate that it is certainly not the only way. We are excited to support our community in profound new ways during the interim and in-between time period existing now whilst AHNAC is receiving its authorized exemption.

For those who have previously contributed to AHNAC and are registered for one of our Church’s future Ayahuasca Healing Retreats: we will be in close communication with you to reschedule your retreat date, and to help resolve any inconveniences that may be experienced through receiving this public announcement.

Thank you very much for your kind understanding and unconditional on-going support, as we do everything we can to operate within the rules of the judicial system to compliment and bring a healthy and essential balance to the already strong and nourished protective relationship that we have in place with our Oklevueha Native American Mother Church.

We appreciate every step of the journey with you, and with love, we ask for your prayers and positive intentions, particularly during this time, so that we receive our exemption promptly and can continue to provide the service of healing and depth of transformation that we came here to bring, serve and offer to America and the World.

With Infinite Love, Always,
The Ayahuasca Healings Family

Offline Sparks

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Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #1 on: March 11, 2016, 08:57:28 am »
http://www.chronline.com/church-seeks-to-offer-vision-quests-near-elbe/article_2b7dba38-cc8d-11e5-8ccf-338956d42ad8.html
Quote
Trinity de Guzman is listed as the president of The Church of Ayahuasca Healings. His church’s website goes into great detail about the religious protections afforded to church members seeking to use controlled substances in order to perform sacred ceremonies.

Yes, all the details may be scrutinized here: https://ayahuascahealings.com

Here is a preliminary statement by Mr. Trinity de Guzman, leading to the long quote in my foregoing post:

https://ayahuascahealings.com/important-public-announcement-ayahuasca-healings/

Here he explains why there are no refunds of "donations" paid for retreats, it's so filled with drivel that I quote it all, in case it goes away it may be read here. I'll emphasize a few statements.

Public Announcement: Followup Message – Mar 10, 2016

Blessings to all!

We understand that there are several of you who have booked retreats with us, and are upset about the re-scheduling of your retreats, without the opportunity for a refund.

This is where we need to kindly, humbly, and deeply, ask you for your support and help, during the time we need it most.

This is a group, family, community endeavor and movement. Without any of you, none of this would be possible.

People all over America, who need this healing, who are lost, feeling trapped by society, not knowing what to do, or where to go with their lives…

Thousands, millions, of people are in pain. Looking for answers. Looking for help. Looking for peace and happiness.

This is why we are so guided to bring this medicine to America. We see how badly it is needed.

And we know, this is what many of you are struggling with, which is why you were called to the medicine in the first place.

And this is what we are here to help you with.

With these beautiful, unexpected, turn of events, it seems clear, that this is order:

First, without plant medicine. To build the foundation.

Then, when the time is right, adding plant medicine to take your healing journey to levels and dimensions so much more powerful than words can describe.

Look at this like a gift.

Instead of jumping into a world of spiritual-revelations, that people might see for a night, and then quickly forget…

You have the opportunity to create a foundation. To prepare yourself. For the most transformational journey that is destined for you.

Don’t rush the process. You will have your ceremony, when you are meant to.

This is a gift.

This time between now and when you experience the medicine, is a blessing in disguise.

Allow yourself to start to see it that way, and miracles will present themselves to you.


To emphasize, we are NOT cancelling the retreats. Only rescheduling them to a later date.

We ask for your surrender to this process.

Look at this as a training ground, to practice trust & surrender. A gift in itself.


We WILL lead you through the most transformational healing journey of your entire life.

If you allow us to.

If you can surrender to this all, and see that everything is truly happening to serve you, us, and this movement, in the highest.

The bottom line is this:

We are here to bring so much love, light, healing, truth, and opening of hearts, to so many people, across the globe.

But the only way we can do that, is TOGETHER.

And the time it’s most important to stick together, is when it’s hardest. Like right now.

You are a part of this because you are meant to be.

There are no accidents.

What is happening to you, is no mistake.

Everything that is meant to happen, will happen.

And what is happening now, was meant to happen.


For the benefit, the healing, and the awakening of so many countless beings.

It’s all unfolding exactly the way it’s meant to.

When you surrender to this experience, without reacting in anger, you can begin to see…

Everything is happening the way it is meant to. Even though we might not understand exactly why.

Please. We need your support.

The only way this will work, is together.

In order for this movement of healing to live on, your prayers, your allowing and acceptance of “what is”, and your trust, is the golden key to this all.

And remember, everything is energy.

Energy always balances itself out.

What you give, will always be returned to you. Many times over. It’s a simple law of the Universe.

We will do everything we possibly can, to return to you, the value that you are providing to this movement. And so much more.

But really leave that to the Universe. Great Spirit. The Higher Power that brought us together in the first place.

The energy you donate to this cause, to this movement, to the healing and awakening of so many people… will return to you, in more beautiful ways than you could ever dream up.

If you trust.

If you surrender.

And if you remember, that there are no accidents.


You are an integral part, to this million piece puzzle, of the awakening of us all.

It might not be a smooth ride…

But nobody ever said it would be. ;)

It’s what we came here for. We’re just playing our roles.

And we are doing everything we can, and then some, to make sure you are supported in every way you can be.

Because at the end of the day, do you want Ayahuasca?

Or do you want the peace, liberation, freedom, love, and long-term way of living, in alignment with your true purpose & service to the world?

We know it’s the latter. So look at the money you have donated, as a massive investment towards YOURSELF.

We will support you in ways that you have never been supported before. And this money you have donated, will be one of the greatest gifts, you could have ever given yourself.


We are offering, and delivering, a coaching program, or more so, a Global Healing Community, that will be worth the money you have donated, and so much more.

Stay tuned, to realize how much this will really serve you.

We apologize deeply for any inconvenience this has brought you.

The only way through this, is trust. And expect to see the beauty that is waiting to reveal itself, on the other side.

The only way this will succeed, the only way we can bring this life-changing healing plant sacrament, Mother Ayahuasca, to America, and all those who need it, is through your continued support.

This is how to help:

We ask for your belief.

We ask for your trust.

We ask for your sweet surrender, knowing that the money you have donated, is supporting so many people’s healing journey. Most of all, your own.

We will be in communication with all of you who are scheduled for upcoming retreats, via phone.

To ensure everything is as clear as possible, to build the personal connection, and to make sure that you are truly happy with your interactions with our Church.

Thank you so much for your support during this time that we need it most.

We understand that this is hard for you, as it is difficult for us as well, but please, we need to stick together.

Keep our eyes on the big vision. And remember, we came here to build this, together.

Thank you again, and we look forward to communicating with you personally, in more detail.

With the deepest gratitude, surrendering in love to every moment,
Trinity de Guzman & The Ayahuasca Healings Family

PS – We want to be clear. The reason we are not able to issue refunds, is two-fold:

1) We have re-invested all of the donations we have received into the Church, and Spiritual Healing Center, in Elbe.

As well, the operating expenses of leading a movement like this, with how many people are involved, and how many lives are being changed, has left us in a position, where we do not have money saved to pay back refunds.

When you ask for a refund, it puts a financial strain on us, that may add up to this whole thing falling apart. To be completely honest.

I don’t believe that will happen. But it’s to put it in perspective.

It’s not like we simply do not want to issue refunds. If we had the means to, of course, we would love to, for those who are really adamant about it.

But honestly, we do not have the resources to do so. And if we want this to succeed, we can not put that type of stress on the organization right now.

The second reason is…

2) As expressed on our Ayahuasca Healing Retreat info page, and in our Terms & Conditions:

- You are not paying a price for a retreat. You are not paying for a product or service. It is not an exchange of money, where you give us ____$, and then we give you a retreat.

- The money you send us is a donation, and is therefor non-refundable.

- The donation is to support our Church’s Vision & Mission, to share healing & awakening with the world.

- The retreat is shared with you, as a thank you, and as a healing service we offer. This operates as a fundraising activity of our Church.

Based on these points, we are unable to issue refunds, and we, again, apologize so deeply, for this unexpected turn of events.

Again, we simply ask you to look at this like a gift, because there is no doubt it is.

And this is happening, to serve us all.

Thank you again so much, for your continued support, love, acceptance, allowing, and total embrace, of life as it is.

This journey together is powerful!

It will teach you so much about yourself, if you let it.

Because after all… that’s the essence of this journey, and what it really means to heal.

We pray you are receiving the lessons, just as we are!

— OK, you suckers, we took your thousands of dollars, and in return you got a barrel full of the most banal New Age drivel ever. Bye-bye!

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #2 on: March 11, 2016, 10:11:44 am »
The video referred to at the very bottom of my foregoing post is on YouTube (45 minutes):

Legal Ayahuasca Healings Church in America - Blessing by James 'Flaming Eagle' Mooney, ONAC

Published Dec. 12, 2015
Legal Ayahuasca Healings Church in America: https://ayahuascahealings.com

This Blessing from James 'Flaming Eagle' Mooney was given on Dec 10, 2015, from the Oklevueha Native American Church, to the Ayahuasca Healings Church in America.

This Blessing gives the complete legal protection of the Native American Church, to our Ayahuasca Healings Church, and all it's members to be able to sit with Mother Ayahuasca in America, legally.

How is there a legal Ayahuasca Church in America? The full answer can be found here:
https://ayahuascahealings.com/ayahuasca-church-in-usa-how-are-we-legal/

The trippers who constitute the team of the "Ayahuasca Healings Church" present themselves. They are also presented here:

https://ayahuascahealings.com/the-team/

And here is a message from Mr. Guzman, who, in the above video, says his first name was Christopher:

https://ayahuascahealings.com/trinitys-welcome-message/

Here is the other one of them with a separate page:

Aloha. My name is Marc Shackman, also known as Kumooja Banyan Tree.

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #3 on: March 11, 2016, 10:31:57 am »
Listening to those self-presentations and reading about "The Team" I find only one person identified as a Native American:

Gary Tom
Gary Tom (Otherwise known as 'Bear') is a Southern Paiute Native elder and Medicine Man, who is enrolled at Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians, the Keepers of the North rim of the Grand Canyon. Bear is a teacher and educator, having obtained an MA Ed from Northern Arizona University - Flag. He is an accomplished musician, jazz trombone player and Native Indian flute specialist. He played at the opening ceremonies of the 2002 winter olympics at Salt Lake City, and many other countries internationally during his life.

Bear has carried out and facilitated ceremony for over 30 years, mainly with the Native American Sweatlodge. His uncle was a well known Peyote 'roadman' for the Native American Church. He feels ceremony is very important so that we can learn to respect ourselves fully and all things around us. We are honored to have him join our Native American Church and open our weekend retreats here every Friday in Washington, with a very cleansing and purifying traditional Native Indian Sweatlodge ceremony. The perfect preparation to the deeper work that is to take place. Aho Mitakuye O'yasin!

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #4 on: March 15, 2016, 08:08:11 pm »
There is an update today in the James "Flaming Eagle" Mooney thread which duplicates some of my quotes in the present thread:

http://www.newagefraud.org/smf/index.php?topic=253.msg42385#msg42385

I still think "Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)" and Mr. Trinity de Guzman et al should have their own topic.

Offline Sandy S

  • Posts: 271
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #5 on: March 15, 2016, 08:23:23 pm »
Thanks for starting this thread.

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #6 on: March 15, 2016, 08:57:22 pm »
Sandy S: You quoted in full one rambling of Mr. Guzman that I only linked to, which is good to keep, when the original has left the scene. Then you quoted the same thieving apology that I did, and concluded:

There's a Spaghetti Western called I quattro dell'Ave Maria, aka, Ace High. In it, Eli Wallach plays a bandit who relieves a couple of guys of their money. As he does so, he utters the following words, which seem appropriate here:

Quote
Money corrupts men, it softens him. So to keep you young and pure, I think I'll take everything.

Seems we quite agree what is happening here:

— OK, you suckers, we took your thousands of dollars, and in return you got a barrel full of the most banal New Age drivel ever. Bye-bye!

I believe the victims here dished out at least $1500 smackers each.

The suggested obligatory "donations": You could choose either $1497 or $1997, I read several times. Will check it.

— I web-archived all the pages I quoted from so that PDF's and screenshots can be produced, in case someone comes around and denies that the stuff ever existed. Also, let's hope it's kept forever in Google's buffers.

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #7 on: March 15, 2016, 09:15:59 pm »
The suggested obligatory "donations": You could choose either $1497 or $1997, I read several times. Will check it.

"Donations" were in the range from $1497 to $1997:

So the requested donation is $1497 to $1997 USD.

A lot of people who are familiar with how much the medicine costs, judge us, or are upset by the fact that we are requesting $1497 – $1997 as our suggested donation for our Ayahuasca Healing Retreats in America.

Many more details (and more suggestions for emptying your wallet) here:

Why are the retreats $1497 to $1997?

First of all, our retreats do not cost $1497 – $1997. You have the right to contribute or donate any amount you wish to our Ayahuasca Healings Church, and the money you donate to us is not an exchange for a service, such as our Ayahuasca healing retreats. We offer our spiritual retreats as a service to the community, and to humanity, and we do so for free. Any money you donate to us is for helping us cover our operating expenses, to help us further our Spiritual Mission, and every dollar you donate to our Ministry is dedicated towards the healing of our people and our planet.

We have received many complaints about our suggested contribution range of $1,497-$1,997 for our 4-day healing retreats. To emphasize, you can contribute any amount you wish. This is nothing but a suggestion. We have an ever-increasing, and overwhelming amount of interest in our retreats and there is no way that we can accommodate everybody. That is why it is one of our highest priorities to build more Ayahuasca Healing Churches in America. Buying land in the United States requires a lot of money, and building a Healing Center & Church requires a lot of people, and of course, financial resources.

Since you have the right to contribute any amount you wish, it’s important that you also understand, with our intentions to build more spiritual healing centers around America, we depend solely on your contributions to make that a reality.

You can donate $100 if you’d like, and we never turn away anyone based only on their ability to meet the suggested contribution. For every retreat, we accept courageous, inspirational candidates regardless of whether or not they are able to meet the suggested contribution range. At the same time, we are a brand new church and ministry, and with our ambitious visions to build these healing centers near every major city in America, we currently dependent upon your generous contributions in order to meet expenses, grow and share this medicine with those who need it most.

Many have falsely claimed that our ceremonies “cost $2,000? or that “we only serve the rich”. We find these claims to be unfair and inaccurate. We also reject comparisons to the cost of a retreat in Peru as unfair and unrealistic. Expenses to run a center in Peru, for land, food, staff, medicine, everything about it, are significantly lower than they are in the United States. The costs, therefore, required to open and maintain a Church (analogous to a Peruvian retreat center, let alone build more Churches) are significantly higher in the US than in South America.

To make this medicine and healing available to everybody, and not just those who can meet our suggested contribution range, we also offer a scholarship program for those who are severely financially constrained. You can apply for the Scholarship program by clicking here.

Can I make a contribution even if I don’t plan to attend?

You are absolutely more than welcome to make a contribution at any point in time, to support our Church and Spiritual Ministry. Please note, however, that all donations are accepted, “without consideration.” Therefore, please do not make a one-off donation with the expectation of being admitted to a retreat, without first going through our application process. We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone based on factors of safety, liability, and our own personal judgment.

Is my contribution tax deductible?

Yes, all contributions are tax deductible through the Oklevueha Native American Church. Please email us for details at: support [at] ayahuascaheailngs [dot] com

Offline SallyN

  • Posts: 12
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #8 on: March 16, 2016, 02:43:29 pm »
This is the "church" who were cited as supporting/endorsing the Phoenix Goddess Temple, whose founder was convicted of running a brothel. "Throughout the trial, Elise has maintained and presented evidence that her temple was in fact a sanctioned Oklevueha Native American church" [source: http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/fate-of-phoenix-goddess-temples-head-priestess-to-be-decided-by-jury-8096873].

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #9 on: March 16, 2016, 03:15:16 pm »
In the same way, the "Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)" presents itself as a sanctioned branch of the "Oklevueha Native American Church". They both have their own extensive websites:

http://nativeamericanchurches.org ("Lakota Religion & Native American Church — Oklevueha Native American Church")

Oklevueha Native American Church of Ayahuasca Healings

We are a legally established independent Branch of the Oklevueha Native American Church (ONAC) that desires to protect and restore to the world our religious and personal freedoms as an inherently Native American Religious Global Culture and People.

Link in there to: https://ayahuascahealings.com/onac-declaration/ where the Ayahuasca branch is named "Oklevueha Native American Church of Ayahuasca Healing". — So far I have seen them use half a dozen slightly differing names for this outfit, all of them with "Ayahuasca" and "Native American Church" in them.

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #10 on: March 16, 2016, 03:34:10 pm »
This is the "church" who were cited as supporting/endorsing the Phoenix Goddess Temple, whose founder was convicted of running a brothel. "Throughout the trial, Elise has maintained and presented evidence that her temple was in fact a sanctioned Oklevueha Native American church" [source: http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/fate-of-phoenix-goddess-temples-head-priestess-to-be-decided-by-jury-8096873].

I quoted the above as an update in this forum thread: "Goddess" temples busted in prostitution sting - many arrests & charges.

Offline JJimmy

  • Posts: 14
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #11 on: March 16, 2016, 06:24:02 pm »
http://washington.intercreditreport.com/company/new-haven-native-american-church-603564808
 
Quote
AYAHUASCA HEALINGS

Address 204 LUTKINS RD, ELBE, WA, 98330-9704



Quote
Special Video for Registrants - Mar 14, 2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jTQK9ufVPs



Offline JJimmy

  • Posts: 14
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #12 on: March 16, 2016, 06:36:22 pm »
http://www.chronline.com/mineral-area-church-that-takes-donations-for-hallucinogenic-experiences-reschedules/article_88ac1d24-e80f-11e5-8b1d-03385bdfaae7.html

Quote
A recent post on the webpage of the Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church may be a sign that all is not well at the controversial spiritual center near Mineral.
The church began offering its brand of high-priced spiritual retreats near the end of January, and complaints from unhappy or dissatisfied participants started making the rounds on the Internet almost immediately thereafter.
Some of the original complaints alleged that the plant medicines — hallucinogens — were not strong enough and failed to provide the life-altering experience that was promised to them.
The newest wave of accusations are different entirely.
According to a post found on the Ayahuasca Healings Church website, dated March 10, some retreat dates have recently been postponed by church leaders without the option of a refund for those that had already paid, or donated, their retreat fee.
The full suggested donation price for a weekend at the church is just shy of $2,000. Limited “scholarship” opportunities are said to be available, bringing the price tag of the weekend retreats down to about $500.
“We understand that there are several of you who have booked retreats with us, and are upset about the re-scheduling of your retreats, without the opportunity for a refund,” read the post penned by church president Trinity de Guzman. “This is where we need to kindly, humbly, and deeply, ask you for your support and help, during the time we need it most.”
According to Marc Shackman, CEO and shaman of the Ayahuasca Healings Church, Guzman was denied reentry to the United States from Canada around the first of the new year after border agents discovered his affiliation with the church.
Guzman has been keeping up with the online operations of the church from outside the country since then. Shackman said the hope is that Guzman will be able to return sometime this summer.
Guzman suggested that spurned spiritualists look at the sudden change of plans as a “gift” or “blessing in disguise,” rather than a waste of opportunity and money, noting that, “Instead of jumping into a world of spiritual-revelations, that people might see for a night, and then quickly forget … you have the opportunity to create a foundation. To prepare yourself. For the most transformational journey that is destined for you. Don’t rush the process. You will have your ceremony, when you are meant to.”
The extensive post went on to emphasize that the church is not cancelling the retreats, they are simply rescheduling them, and they “ask for your surrender to this process.”
The post added, “When you surrender to this experience, without reacting in anger, you can begin to see (that) everything is happening the way it is meant to. Even though we might not understand exactly why.”
Guzman went on to suggest a new perspective for aspiring ayahuasca ceremony participants to view the expensive change of plans, writing, “We ask for your sweet surrender, knowing that they money you have donated is supporting many people’s healing journey. Most of all your own.”
According to the post, the Ayahuasca Healings Church is unable to return the money given to them by prospective ceremony participants for two reasons.
First, they claim to have already “re-invested all of the donations,” mostly toward operating expenses. The post explained, “When you ask for a refund it puts a financial strain on us that may add up to this whole thing falling apart,” read the post.
The second reason put forth by the church for their lack of reimbursement is heavily wrapped in official terms and conditions pursuant to the application and donation process.
“You are not paying a price for a retreat. You are not paying for a product or services,” read the post. “The money you send us is a donation, and is therefor (sic) non-refundable.”
In a phone conversation earlier this week, Shackman said “It’s not an exchange of money for services. It’s a donation to our church which we can use in any way we choose.”
In the extensive explanation post, Guzman added, “Based on these points, we are unable to issue refunds, and we, again, apologize so deeply, for this unexpected turn of events.”
According to their website, representatives of the Ayahuasca Healings Church intend to contact all individuals who had their retreats rescheduled by phone in order to “ensure everything is as clear as possible, to build the personal connection, and to make sure that you are truly happy with your interactions with our Church.”
Attempts to contact church leaders as well as the Lewis County Prosecutor’s Office were not immediately successful.
Additional information on the Ayahuasca Healing Native American Church can be found on its website at https://ayahuascahealings.com/ayahuasca-usa-church-vision/.

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #13 on: March 17, 2016, 04:03:06 am »
Special Video for Registrants - Mar 14, 2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jTQK9ufVPs

Mr. Trinity de Guzman gives 23 minutes 24 seconds oral version of the statement I quoted before. I still say (my emphasis):

— OK, you suckers, we took your thousands of dollars, and in return you got a barrel full of the most banal New Age drivel ever. Bye-bye!

Offline Sparks

  • Posts: 1412
Re: Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church (AHNAC)
« Reply #14 on: March 17, 2016, 04:29:48 am »
http://washington.intercreditreport.com/company/new-haven-native-american-church-603564808
Quote
AYAHUASCA HEALINGS
Address 204 LUTKINS RD, ELBE, WA, 98330-9704

I'will quote this in full to show the name of the "President", "Registered Agent", and "Governing person", (bold italic):

NEW HAVEN NATIVE AMERICAN CHURCH
Category REG
Company Type Nonprofit
Company number 603564808
Status Active
WA Date Of Incorporation 11/20/2015
Expiration 11/30/2016
Duration Perpetual
Home State MO

NEW HAVEN NATIVE AMERICAN CHURCH officials
President Marc Roland Shackman

Registered Trade Names
AYAHUASCA AMERICA
Status Active
First Issued 12/29/2015
Expires N/A

AYAHUASCA HEALINGS
Status Active
First Issued 12/29/2015
Expires N/A

AYAHUASCA USA
Status Active
First Issued 12/29/2015
Expires N/A

Registered Agent
Agent Name MARC SHACKMAN
Registered Agent Address 204 LUTKENS RD, ELBE, WA, 98330

Registered Business Locations
AYAHUASCA HEALINGS
Address 204 LUTKINS RD, ELBE, WA, 98330-9704

Description
The NEW HAVEN NATIVE AMERICAN CHURCH company was registered on November 20, 2015, in MO. Current status of the organization Active and type Nonprofit. The registering agent is MARC SHACKMAN located at the address 204 LUTKENS RD, ELBE, WA, 98330. Get the credit report on the NEW HAVEN NATIVE AMERICAN CHURCH. Governing persons are: Marc Roland Shackman. Credt score.

http://www.chronline.com/mineral-area-church-that-takes-donations-for-hallucinogenic-experiences-reschedules/article_88ac1d24-e80f-11e5-8b1d-03385bdfaae7.html

The heading and introduction to the quoted article has been left out:

Mineral Area Church That Takes ‘Donations’ for Hallucinogenic Experiences Reschedules Retreats and Refuses to Give Refunds
Issues: Leaders of Ayahuasca Healings Native American Church Claim Donations Are Non-Refundable, Money Will Help Build Organization

I will also quote the picture caption accompanying the article:

Quote
Oklevueha Native American Church of Ayahuasca Healings
Marc Shackman, shaman and CEO of the Oklevueha Native American Church of Ayahuasca Healings, walks near a group of teepees where church goers stay during the three-day religious ceremonies at the church's property near Elbe on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016.