I am always touched when a prospective naked church go-er chooses to write in and ask more questions and share their story of healing… 

Here’s one that truly moved me.

“Priestess Phoenix,

My name is Ted and I’m a member of the YNA group. I just saw your recent posting about the worship service your church offers, and I would very much like to attend the services. I was raised into the Eastern Orthodox Church, but the church’s conservative stance on issues such as homosexuality just completely turned me off. It has been many years since I went to my church. When I saw your post and began reading about your church on The Sensual Shaman, I felt like I found the truth that I was searching for all these years. I 100% agree with everything that you wrote and I feel that God revealed His divine truth to you. I’ve been a nudist for many years now – and I agree that nudism is something to be celebrated. God created everyone nude – it is not something to be ashamed of. I love how your church is accepting of all people.

I’ve noticed from the post that the next worship service is June 26. What time does it begin? Where in Manhattan is it located?

During service, is there any liturgy that is followed or particular way of worship that your church practices (ex. Standing or kneeling or bowing down?) What is the proper way to greet you and Goddess Charmaine in church?
I apologize for so many questions – but I’m eager to learn more about your church and to be prepared to attend worship. Thank you very much in advance.

My response:

Dear Ted,

Thanks so much for your email and for your wonderful feedback. These are all really great questions that I think everyone could benefit from. 

First of all we meet in midtown Manhattan between 5th Ave and 6th Ave (exact address given when you RSVP – next service is Wednesday June 26th @ 7pm-9pm)

Please bring a towel like you would to any naturist gathering.

Consider our church to be informal and celebratory and in support of group wisdom with first acknowledging that the divine lives in each of us and that we need no interpreter between us and the Source we call God or Goddess or The Divine other than our body and our own sense of deep listening and self-inquiry.

To greet Rev Goddess and I, just simply introduce yourself with a hug or a handshake. While we may identify as a shaman or a Reverend, we are not gurus, we are ordinary people just like you who have stories and life experiences similar to yours. We are moved to offer this work because it is an organic extension of who we are and the healing and ministry we embrace.

We’ll sit together in a circle on the floor for most of service, although we might dance, sing and speak in community to share collective wisdom.

Looking forward to sharing service with you soon!

Blessings!
Isis