Regionary Bishop, Ecclesia Gnostica
The Gnostic Society was founded in Los Angeles, California in 1928 to advance the study, understanding, and the individual experience of Gnosis. Since 1963, Dr. Stephan A. Hoeller, author, lecturer and leading exponent of Gnostic religious practice, has led the organization. He is also the Bishop of the Ecclesia Gnostica.
Ecclesia Gnostica (Latin: The Church of Gnosis) is an open sacramental Gnostic church in Los Angeles. It has ordained clergy and conducts regular sacramental services, including two weekly Masses (Celebration of the Holy Eucharist), as well as monthly and seasonal services in accordance with the Liturgical Calendar.
What is Gnosticism?
The word Gnosticism describes a tradition of religious practice centered upon individual experience of spiritual insight, as distinct from a belief in religious doctrine, or obedience to commandments. This inner, profound and transforming insight is called gnosis, a Greek word best rendered in English as intuitive knowledge.