Quite simply, because none of the existing ones offer satisfaction to the reasoning mind. Some tenets of ours:

• Natural places are sacred. Wilderness, Open Space, parks and oceans are to be cherished and protected as our churches and cathedrals. These are the places we go to rejuvenate, improve ourselves and pay homage to forces far more powerful than ourselves.

• Anyone over 18yrs of age may join. No one should be indoctrinated at a young age into something they cannot fully understand. The CoHS does not discriminate on attribute other than age.

• The CoHS is not exclusive. You are free to be a member of any other religion as well. You are also free to develop additional beliefs within the framework of the CoHS so long as they aren't provably false using the Scientific Method.

• Our books are open. We believe that non-profit organizations should have open financial accounting. Anyone, including non-members, should be able to see how every dollar is collected, invested and expended.

• Donations are optional. There is no penalty for not contributing financially, and similarly, there are no extra benefits bestowed upon contributors.

"At its core, religion can be understood as a system of beliefs, practices, and values that help individuals make sense of the world around them, find meaning and purpose in life, and connect with something greater than themselves." -  ChatGPT

Religions have historically done a poor job of explaining the world around us. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the scientific method was developed, leading to a revolution in the understanding of the physical world, often at odds with established religious doctrine. Science does not exist to challenge religion, but simply to explain the physical world.

Explaining the existence of pain, suffering, and inequality has led religions to develop the ideas of a future reward in an afterlife, reincarnation, lasting legacies and more, non of which feel satisfying. Polytheistic religions have gods at odds with each other to explain calamities and the existence of good and evil, while monotheists have either a spiteful god, or a loving god with unknowable purpose. Science on the other hand, explains these things through evolutionary principles and randomness. So far, science has not shown the need for something greater, though it cannot rule one out - but if God does exist, all the evidence to date shows one of casual indifference.

"Ultimately, the purpose of human existence is a deeply personal and subjective question that may vary from individual to individual. Some people may find their purpose in religion, while others may find it in a career, a cause, or in personal relationships. Ultimately, our purpose may be defined by what brings us joy, fulfillment, and a sense of meaning and purpose in life." -  ChatGPT

Without evidence for an afterlife, it would seem our energies are best focused on this life, making it meaningful and joyful. We believe human joy and fulfillment are best served through immersion in the natural world. Hiking, backpacking, quiet contemplation, and surfing are just some of the ways to immerse oneself. Doing so alone or in a group offer different experiences, both important to our human development. Alone, it provides us with opportunity for self-reflection, and greater appreciation for this amazing earth, while in a group it provides time for developing more meaningful relationships, away from the bustle of civilization and its myriad of distractions.

We may question the existence of God or deities, but we do not outright reject the possibility. Our members are free to believe in a higher power as they see fit. Science has shown that the Universe was started some 15+ billion years ago in the Big Bang, but it's entirely possible that this is not a one-off occurrence, but part of a cyclical pattern of creation and destruction. It also seems plausible that the physical laws and mechanics that govern its actions may have been put in place by a higher power. How many such universes could have been launched by the same force? Countless, we imagine, perhaps each with unique characteristics that make each a wonder to behold. 

This in not a sham front to make fun of existing religions. We want to be taken seriously as a religious organization, but we do not take ourselves too seriously, either. Fun and mirth are a healthy part of the human experience, after all.