Ceremony Leader

Becoming a ceremony leader is the most intensive training the Church offers, as it requires the greatest amount of commitment and responsibility. Leaders in training will eventually lead ceremonies while maintaining the integrity and safety the church requires.

To be considered for Ceremony Leader training, you must meet the following requirements. You are already familiar with the church’s events and ceremonies, have developed a strong relationship with the medicines, and can hold your composure accordingly. You have worked closely with Ceremony Leaders as a Facilitator, and are ready to begin taking on bigger responsibilities in preparation for leading your own ceremonies under the church.

Requirements to begin and complete Ceremony Leadership training:

• You have been a Facilitator at least (1) year
• You have shadowed under each current Ceremony Leader
• You have facilitated at least (6) three day retreats
• You have participated in at least (6) three day retreats for your own personal work
• You have displayed a positive relationship to the medicines and an ability to maintain composure and helpfulness in ceremony settings
• You have attended at least (10) non ceremony church events show a commitment to being a member of the church
• Quarterly background checks (Any personnel who have been convicted of a non-possession drug offense (manufacturing, delivery, sale, trafficking, etc.) are disqualified from being involved with, or having access to, the sacramental tea.  Also, anyone with a conviction for a crime involving “moral turpitude,” including – but not necessarily limited to – offenses involving theft, fraud and crimes of violence are similarly disqualified from having any role in the handling, preparation or dispensing of ayahuasca.)
• CPR and First Aid certified

Leadership training lasts a minimum of one year. Training could take longer than a year depending on how long it takes you to complete all requirements or if Church leaders agree you need more time training. During this time in training, you will be given more leadership responsibility as your relationship with and ability to be in the medicine space improve.

Ceremony Leader Trainee Responsibilities:

• Shadow current Ceremony Leaders to learn the roles and responsibilities of leadership
• Properly set up and understand the importance of ceremony spaces/settings
• Learn and be involved in the full preparation of the medicines
• Work with Ceremony Leaders on the use of Icaros and other techniques for maintaining the integrity and safety of the circle
• Work with directing Facilitators to help your trainer run a successful retreat
• Answer question for members who are considering signing up for their first ceremony (pre ceremony)
• Conduct participant screenings and provide information about medication safety and other health-related concerns
• Lead church events such as integration meetings, Sunday Services, & outreach

During your first year of leadership training you will assist in at least (6) 3 day ceremony weekends under the guidance of different ceremony leaders. You will be paid $50 per night to help cover your time and expenses while training/assisting.

Leaders in training are also expected to attend at least (10) non ceremony events during their year of training with Two Birds Church, such as Sunday Services, Virtual Integration, or Outreach and assist. Events can be chosen at trainees discretion but integration meetings must be attended if you help lead in that months’ ceremony.

As you continue to deepen your relationship with the medicine during Leadership training, you will be asked to sit as a non trainee in at least (3) weekends during your training, free of charge to continue your personal growth and remain aware of what it’s like to sit in the circle and surrender. Another important requirement is to begin getting comfortable with the medicine solo. You will be provided medicine and be expected to complete at least (3) ceremony alone. As part of your Sapo/Kambo training, you will be expected to learn to administer the medicine to yourself and others safely.

At the end of the Leadership training, you will be evaluated by current leaders. Training may be extended until you are able to safely hold a group ceremony, sit with the medicine solo, direct and train your facilitators. Demonstrate an understanding of Icaros and how to use them in ceremony, as well as other techniques for directing the ceremony in a safe and productive manner. Be able to conduct and administrator Sapo/kambo safely. Be able to make all medicines to the standards of the Church. Be able to organize all events & ceremonies, do all required screenings, and answer all relevant questions for ceremonies you are in charge of.