Church of Gnome Structure & Representation
The Church of Gnome is a spiritual organization built on personal growth, joy, and connection. While we encourage all members to express their beliefs and practices in ways that are meaningful to them, it's important to clarify the distinction between official Church representation and individual spiritual expression.
Leadership & Official Representation
THE GNOMEAN COUNCIL
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Phantom, the Grand Paw of the Church, serves as co-leader and spiritual guide. His teachings—delivered through wise head tilts and impeccable nap strategies—remind us to live in the moment, love unconditionally, and embrace joy. As everyone’s Grand Paw, he holds a position of great honor, and reverence may be paid in the form of treats and ear scratches.
As the founder and Gnomean Elder, Brett Larsen oversees the vision, operations, and teachings of the Church of Gnome. His role is to guide and foster a community where personal growth, humor, and shared wisdom thrive. Brett champions curiosity, connection, and the right to wear a gnome hat anywhere, even on a driver’s license. With members all over the world, he ensures the Church remains a space for both the profound and the absurd.
A founding force and trusted advisor, Gnome Chief Brandon has been with the Church of Gnome since its earliest days—long before it became reality. As a key member of the Board of Directors, he helps shape the Church’s vision, offering wise counsel and unwavering support. Embodying the Gnomean Principles in both spirit and action, he serves as a guide, a sounding board for new ideas, and a steady hand in our ever-growing community.
A devoted Minister and creative collaborator, Minister Paul brings heartfelt wisdom and infectious enthusiasm to the Gnomean Council. As a close friend and mentor in the art of officiating, he has guided many with grace and good humor. Ever-dedicated to spreading the word (and the gnomes), Paul is a tireless advocate for the Church’s mission. From brainstorming wild ideas to grounding them in action, he helps shape the magical and meaningful path we walk together.
These individuals oversee the official direction, values, and messaging of the Church.
Any official Church of Gnome statements, policies, or endorsements will come from them.
Membership & Community Roles
👤 Members of the Church of Gnome – Anyone who joins and embraces the Gnomean Principles. Members contribute to our collective journey but do not officially speak on behalf of the Church.
🎩 Gnomean Ministers – By becoming ordained, members represent the Church in a spiritual capacity, but this is unique to them and their community. Ministers act independently, shaping their role in a way that aligns with their beliefs and those they serve. Their words, actions, and interpretations are their own and do not constitute official Church doctrine or policy.
🛖 Future Local Organizers – In time, we may establish regional community groups. Selected members may take on local leadership roles to help organize meetups, discussions, and events in their area.
❌ Not an Official Representative – Ministers are not spokespeople for the Church as a whole. They guide based on their own personal journey.
Gnomean Hierarchy – A Timeline, Not a Ladder
Welcome, fellow Gnomeans, to our unique way of celebrating your journey with us – the Gnomean Hierarchy! But don't let the word 'hierarchy' fool you. In our forest, every gnome is as important as the next, no matter the size of their hat or the length of their beard!
A Timeline, Not a Ladder
Think of the Gnomean Hierarchy not as a ladder of superiority, but more like a timeline of your delightful journey in our gnome-tastic community. It's our fun way of tipping our hats (or gnome caps, to be precise) to how long you've been with us.
The Gnomean Hierarchy Titles
🌱 Seedling Gnome (Just Joined)
As a Seedling Gnome, you've just embarked on your journey within our gnome community, representing the promise of growth and potential.
🌿 Sapling Gnome (3 Months)
Three months in, you've sprouted into a Sapling Gnome, demonstrating the early stages of your development within our vibrant society.
🍃 Moss Gnome (6 Months)
At six months, you've become a Moss Gnome, symbolizing your deeper connection to nature and the earth.
🏡 Lawn Gnome (1 Year)
After a year's time, you've evolved into a Lawn Gnome, contributing freshness and vitality to our gnome community.
🌷 Garden Gnome (2 Years)
Two years of laughter and learning have turned you into a Garden Gnome, fostering the growth and beauty of our community.
🌲 Forest Gnome (3 Years)
As a Forest Gnome, three years in, you're deeply rooted in our values, becoming an essential leaf in our canopy.
⛰ Mountain Gnome (4 Years)
Four years with us, and you've become a Mountain Gnome, standing tall with resilience and wisdom.
📜 Lorekeeper Gnome (5 Years)
At five years, you ascend to the role of a Lorekeeper Gnome, preserving our community's wisdom and stories.
📖 Storyteller Gnome (6 Years)
Six years in our realm, you're a Storyteller Gnome, sharing tales and fostering connection among us.
🎶 Earthsong Gnome (7 Years)
Seven years with us, you embody the harmony of an Earthsong Gnome, ensuring our roots remain firm and nourished.
🌙 Dreamer Gnome (8 Years)
Eight years in, you've earned the title of Dreamer Gnome, a visionary shaping our community's future.
✨ Moonlight Gnome (9 Years)
As a Moonlight Gnome, after nine years of dedicated service, you are a beacon of tranquility and wisdom.
🔮 Mystic Gnome (10 Years)
A decade with us crowns you as a Mystic Gnome, a revered figure of mystical knowledge and spiritual depth, weaving the magic that binds us all.
Clarity on Public Representation
✅ Members are encouraged to share their journey, insights, and experiences in the faith.
✅ Ministers may officiate weddings or lead spiritual gatherings, but their words and practices are their own interpretation of the faith.
❌ Members do not officially represent the Church – they are part of our collective, but official representation is limited to leadership.
❌ The Church of Gnome does not have political affiliations – our focus is on personal and spiritual growth.
Moving Forward Together
The Church of Gnome is a growing movement dedicated to joy, wisdom, and connection. While every Gnomean walks their own path, we walk together in spirit—embracing the sacred, the absurd, and everything in between.
Gnome Blessings! ✨