Stewardship of The Path of Direct Experience
The Church of Direct Experience is guided by individuals entrusted with the responsibility of preserving, protecting, and practicing The Path of Direct Experience.
Leadership within CODE is not defined by status. It is defined by responsibility, clarity, and alignment with the principles of The Path. Those who serve in leadership roles are accountable for maintaining the integrity, structure, and safety of the Church and its practices.
Alex Patterson
Alex Patterson is the Founder of the Church of Direct Experience and serves as its Presiding Elder.
He is responsible for the articulation, preservation, and continued development of The Path of Direct Experience, as well as the overall direction and integrity of the Church.
As Presiding Elder, he serves as the primary steward of CODE's sacred sacraments, including their preparation, safeguarding, and ceremonial use.
His role reflects both spiritual responsibility and organizational leadership, ensuring that the Church remains aligned with its purpose and principles.
CODE Council
CODE is supported by a Council responsible for maintaining structure, oversight, and continuity. Each role reflects a progression of responsibility and a deepening alignment with The Path of Direct Experience.
Elders, Ministers, Stewards, and Guardians
CODE recognizes distinct roles within its structure,
each carrying its own responsibility in the life of the Church.
Elders
Elders are entrusted with the deeper preservation and transmission of The Path. An Elder is not defined merely by age or title, but by demonstrated spiritual maturity, steadiness, understanding, and alignment with the principles of Direct Experience. Elders help preserve doctrinal clarity, protect the integrity of The Path, and serve as mature custodians of the Church's spiritual life.
Ministers
Ministers are entrusted to guide and hold ceremonial experiences within the framework of The Path.
Stewards
Stewards support Ministers and members and participants through preparation, participation, and integration.
Guardians
Guardians serve the community through presence, support, and the maintenance of a stable and respectful environment.
Each role reflects a progression of responsibility and a deepening alignment with The Path of Direct Experience.
Bunny Patterson
Presiding Minister
Minister
David Wasilewski
Presiding Steward
Steward
Brett Kempter
Presiding Steward
Steward
Max Malila
Presiding Guardian
Guardian
Jeff Bazensky
Presiding Guardian
Guardian
Michael Harbin
Safety and Ethics Chair
SafetyThe Council works in coordination with the Presiding Elder to ensure that all aspects of CODE remain consistent with its purpose and standards.
Operations Team
CODE is supported by an Operations Team responsible for the day-to-day coordination and execution of the Church's activities. This team ensures that communication, logistics, scheduling, and member and participant support are handled with consistency and care. The Operations Team works in close coordination with the Presiding Elder and the CODE Council to maintain a stable and well-functioning environment.
Stephanie Kempter
Director of Operations
Bunny Patterson
Michael Harbin
James Weissman
Board of Directors
CODE maintains a Board of Directors responsible for governance, organizational stability, and legal compliance. The Board works in coordination with the Presiding Elder and the CODE Council to ensure that the Church operates with integrity, continuity, and responsibility.
Jesse Borgelt
Director
Kenny Rogers
Director
Liz Rogers
Director
Neal Turner
Director
Alex Patterson
Founder and Presiding Elder
Stephanie Kempter
Secretary
Bunny Patterson
Treasurer
Safety, Ethics & Education Council (SEEC)
CODE maintains dedicated leadership focused on safety and ethical responsibility. This includes the Safety and Ethics Chair and the Safety and Ethics Council, which operate to ensure that all practices are conducted with integrity, accountability, and care.
General Counsel
CODE is supported by legal counsel to ensure that its structure, practices, and operations remain aligned with applicable law and the principles of religious freedom. This role serves in an advisory capacity, providing guidance while respecting the religious autonomy of the Church.
A Shared Responsibility
While leadership roles carry specific responsibilities, the integrity of CODE is upheld by the collective participation of its members and participants. Each individual contributes to the strength, stability, and clarity of the community.
Leadership within CODE is not about authority for its own sake.
It is about stewardship, of The Path, of the community, and of the conditions that make Direct Experience possible.
