Pubdate: Fri, 20 Feb 2009
Source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer (WA)
Copyright: 2009 Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Contact:  http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/408

OREGON CHURCH ASKS JUDGE TO ALLOW USE OF CEREMONIAL HERB

Oregon members of a Christian church based in Brazil are asking a 
federal judge to allow the use of a hallucinogenic tea during 
religious services.

The Church of the Holy Light of the Queen blends Christian theology 
with traditional indigenous religious beliefs from Brazil.

Church members also consume ayahuasca tea, made from Amazonian 
plants. But federal agents seized a shipment of the disputed tea 
leaves in 1999.

Now the Ashland chapter of the church has gone to federal court to 
argue the tea should be allowed under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

A ruling is expected within 45 days. 
- ---
MAP posted-by: Richard Lake