Policies and Procedures
Spirit of The Vine.
Ancestral Traditions
"World's Best Ayahuasca Retreats in 2024,"-retreat.guru
AYAHUASCA COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SECTION I – PURPOSE & SCOPE
1.1 Mission Statement: The Ayahuasca Community Fellowship (ACF) is dedicated to the responsible and sacred use of Ayahuasca as a religious sacrament. Our mission is to provide a spiritually and legally protected space for transformative experiences rooted in ancient Amazonian traditions.
1.2 Scope: These policies and procedures outline the governance, safety, ethical, and operational guidelines for ACF ceremonies, membership conduct, and organizational activities.
SECTION II – MEMBERSHIP POLICIES
2.1 Eligibility:
- Open to individuals 21 years or older.
- Applicants must complete a medical screening and an orientation interview.
- Membership requires agreement with ACF’s Statement of Belief and Code of Conduct.
2.2 Membership Conduct:
- Members must follow all safety and ceremonial guidelines.
- Confidentiality of personal spiritual experiences is required.
- Abstain from alcohol and recreational drugs for at least two weeks before ceremonies.
2.3 Membership Review & Termination:
- ACF reserves the right to review and revoke membership for violations of ethical, legal, or spiritual guidelines.
- Appeals may be submitted to the ACF Board of Directors for reconsideration.
SECTION III – CEREMONIAL PROCEDURES
3.1 Preparation Guidelines:
- Members must adhere to a dieta (dietary and behavioral restrictions) for a minimum of seven days before participation.
- All participants must complete medical and psychological screening forms.
- Any contraindications must be reviewed by an ACF-approved medical professional.
3.2 Ceremonial Conduct:
- Ceremonies are led by approved facilitators with extensive training in traditional Ayahuasca practices.
- Participants must remain within the ceremonial space until completion.
- Sacred chants (icaros) and guided meditation will accompany the experience.
3.3 Post-Ceremony Integration:
- Members are encouraged to attend integration circles for at least three weeks after participation.
- ACF provides spiritual counseling and support resources for all members.
SECTION IV – HEALTH & SAFETY POLICIES
4.1 Medical Screening:
- All participants must disclose pre-existing medical conditions.
- Individuals with a history of severe mental health disorders must obtain clearance from a healthcare professional.
4.2 Emergency Protocols:
- A trained medical professional must be present during ceremonies.
- Emergency medical kits and defibrillators will be available at all ACF centers.
- In case of a medical emergency, facilitators will enact emergency response protocols and notify local emergency services.
4.3 Substance Use Policies:
- No recreational drugs or alcohol are permitted at ACF centers.
- Ayahuasca use outside of designated ceremonies is strictly prohibited.
SECTION V – GOVERNANCE & LEADERSHIP
5.1 Roles & Responsibilities:
- Spiritual Leader: Oversees ceremonies and spiritual guidance.
- Board of Directors: Ensures compliance with legal and financial regulations.
- Facilitators: Lead ceremonies and provide member support.
- Medical Advisors: Review health screenings and provide emergency assistance.
5.2 Training & Certification:
- All facilitators must complete a certified training program in traditional Ayahuasca practices.
- Annual refresher training is required for all leadership roles.
SECTION VI – LEGAL COMPLIANCE
6.1 DEA Religious Exemption Compliance:
- ACF follows all necessary guidelines under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA).
- All sacramental use of Ayahuasca must be documented and reported as per legal requirements.
6.2 Confidentiality & Data Protection:
- Member records and medical history are securely stored and accessed only by authorized personnel.
- Any data sharing must have explicit consent from the member.
6.3 Ethical and Legal Accountability:
- ACF operates under strict ethical guidelines, ensuring adherence to both spiritual and legal obligations.
- Any legal concerns must be directed to the ACF Legal Committee for resolution.
SECTION VII – CODE OF CONDUCT
7.1 Respect & Integrity:
- All members must treat facilitators, elders, and fellow participants with respect.
- Disruptive or disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.
7.2 Consent & Safety:
- Informed consent is required before participation in any ceremony.
- Any form of coercion, manipulation, or harm is strictly prohibited.
7.3 Community Contribution:
- Members are encouraged to contribute to the community through service, donations, or volunteer work.
- ACF fosters a collaborative environment where all members play an active role in the fellowship.
SECTION VIII – AMENDMENTS & REVISION PROCESS
8.1 Policy Review Schedule:
- Policies will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors.
- Amendments require a majority vote by the Board.
8.2 Effective Date & Implementation:
- New policies take effect immediately upon Board approval.
- All members will be notified of significant policy changes.
