While most religious orders condemn the use of drugs or other intoxicants, the legalization of marijuana has become a hot-button topic among the faithful as they ponder the use of marijuana for medical uses while some states have made marijuana use legal for all citizens. In fact, there are several Christian faiths that have liberal views regarding legalizing marijuana.
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1. Presbyterian Church
The Presbyterian Church's position on pot-smoking, which they adopted during a June 2006 General Assembly, notes that Matthew 25:35 calls for people to give aid to those who are suffering. Many Christians in favor of medicinal marijuana use this line of argument, saying that if it helps ease the pain of people dying from cancer.
2. United Methodist Church
The United Methodist Church has issued resolutions supporting marijuana use when administered by a doctor, but denounces the use of the substance for recreational use.
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3. United Church of Christ
The United Church of Christ has issued proclamations on marijuana use similar to those of the United Methodist Church. While it supports medical marijuana use, it denounces recreational use. The faith quotes a verse from Galatians 5:19 that reads "Those deeds of the flesh are evident. They are immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery" – and the list goes on. Then, he says, "Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." Taking a more controversial stand on the issue is Pastor Steve Myers who admits to recreational use in his blog, "I am a pastor who smokes marijuana."
4. Progressive National Baptist Convention
Representatives of the Progressive National Baptist Convention (PNBC) have issued a statement formally supporting the use of medical marijuana. In 2004, the PNBC signed onto the following statement: "Licensed medical doctors should not be punished for recommending the medical use of marijuana to seriously ill people, and seriously ill people should not be subject to criminal sanctions for using marijuana if the patient's physician has told the patient that such use is likely to be beneficial."
5. Episcopal Church
The Episcopal Church's 1982 resolution supports medical marijuana and even delves into politics by saying that it "urges the adoption by Congress and all states of statutes providing that the use of marijuana be permitted when deemed medically appropriate by duly licensed medical practitioners." It discourages recreation use and supports the Freedom from Chemical Dependency movement.
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6. Zion Coptic Church
The Zion Coptic Church is a semi-moribund Garveyite Orthodox denomination that was revitalized by white hippie converts in the 1960s and 1970s, which supports legalizing marijuana. Members subscribe to the belief that "Herb (marijuana) is a Godly creation from the beginning of the world. It is known as the weed of wisdom, angel's food, the tree of life and even the "Wicked Old Ganja Tree." Its purpose in creation is as a fiery sacrifice to be offered to our redeemer during obligations."
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