FAQs

Why is this nonprofit a religion?

1. We believe it is vital to develop the inner and outer worlds simultaneously.

2. To give us legal grounds to build in significantly more ecologically & socially regenerative ways.

Right now, building in ways that are better than the status quo is illegal. Enter religious freedom. For many of us, it pains our spirit to build in toxic and unjust ways. If we have an official, distinct, organized religion that says, We believe in flourishing for all, we can legitimately say, I’m sorry, it’s against our religion to use that toxic water treatment system you say we have to use, for example. You need to create special permission for us to be able to do it better. We’re happy to meet or exceed your standards for health, just allow us to use different methods.

How can we create better free & affordable housing as a religion?

In many places, free and affordable housing are illegal (against zoning or code), unwelcome (rejected by the county or local votes), and usually quite inhumane, isolating, and/or toxic. However, every state has precedence and zoning for monasteries. What are monasteries if not free/affordable housing? Zoned as a monastery, we can have co-housing in many forms that, significantly, are allowed to mix with agricultural uses, gathering spaces, and even commercial space to sell goods made by residents.

How would these monasteries work?

To legally be considered a monastery, residents simply must take “a religious vow.” Ours would be as simple and inclusive as something like, While I am here, I will seek to prioritize the flourishing of me, my community, and the natural world. No lifetime commitment, no robes, no Kool-aid required. In exchange for free/affordable housing, healthy food, healthcare, childcare, and Flourishing School, residents who are able to contribute 20 hours of community service per week. (Meaningful contribution is critical for an individual’s sense of flourishing.)

Can I be a part of this religion & also another? Or be otherwise nonreligious?

Absolutely! This is meant to be a place where we can meaningfully meet in the middle. We value coming together with many perspectives. Holding different perspectives gives us insightful angles from which to see, discover, and create the most valuable things we share between us. As long as you come ready to listen deeply, share honestly and respectfully, and value flourishing for all, we welcome you.

What’s with the name One of One?

In art, 1/1 indicates a one-of-a-kind original. In math, 1/1 means wholeness. We mean both. It’s about naming the balance we want to cultivate between the individual and the collective/cosmic. The flourishing of one specific individual (person, tree, town) matters. And, at the same time, an individual is never fully an individual. We are all connected with and as a larger One. We want to find and create win-win solutions that respect the individual, the collective, and that which is mysteriously larger than us.

Is this a cult?

“When people think the same ideas and move in the same direction, that’s a cult. When people think many different ideas and move in one direction, that’s a movement.” — Loretta Ross

We are actively trying to ensure this is not and will not become a cult. While it is legally a new and small religion, the beliefs all flow from age-old beliefs held by much wider groups. More importantly, there is no single leader, no particular person or object we worship. We don’t think our way is the only good or right way. We welcome questions, value different viewpoints, and allow people to leave at any time for any reason without negative consequence.

How can I contribute?

How do you want to contribute? What is your gift to give? What is bubbling up inside of you? When you imagine yourself flourishing, what are you doing? That is how we want you to contribute. Financial contributions are helpful for sure, but beyond that, each of us has unique gifts to offer. Our bigger ask is that you listen to and follow your own guidance. Maybe you have an idea for a t-shirt design or NFT we can sell; maybe you see something on this website that could be better; maybe you have land or professional expertise you want to contribute, an idea about how to spread the word or something no one has even considered yet! We welcome your ideas!

Do I have to/how do I become a member?

You don’t have to be a member to participate in the movement. If you want to become an official member, you can sign up here. Official members get to co-create the work by voting on things like the annual budget, buying land, nominating and electing board members, etc.

Have more questions? Email us!