The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster Favorite 

In the mid early 2000s, religious advocates tried a new strategy: promoting the theory of “intelligent design” to be taught in schools. As the Kansas School Board considered the argument, Prophet Bobby Henderson saw an opportunity. His now famous, “Open Letter to the Kansas School Board” began:

I am writing you with much concern after having read of your hearing to decide whether the alternative theory of Intelligent Design should be taught along with the theory of Evolution. I think we can all agree that it is important for students to hear multiple viewpoints so they can choose for themselves the theory that makes the most sense to them. I am concerned, however, that students will only hear one theory of Intelligent Design.

Let us remember that there are multiple theories of Intelligent Design. I and many others around the world are of the strong belief that the universe was created by a Flying Spaghetti Monster. It was He who created all that we see and all that we feel. We feel strongly that the overwhelming scientific evidence pointing towards evolutionary processes is nothing but a coincidence, put in place by Him.

It is for this reason that I’m writing you today, to formally request that this alternative theory be taught in your schools, along with the other two theories. In fact, I will go so far as to say, if you do not agree to do this, we will be forced to proceed with legal action. I’m sure you see where we are coming from. If the Intelligent Design theory is not based on faith, but instead another scientific theory, as is claimed, then you must also allow our theory to be taught, as it is also based on science, not on faith.

He then goes on to explain the beliefs of the church including; the Flying Spaghetti Monster (FSM) created the universe, all preaching should be done in a pirate costume, and the FSM likes to interfere with any science that would disprove his existence.

Thus began the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster or “Pastafarianism”. The church has members across the globe who celebrate the FSM in parades, on the top of their holiday trees, and at protests. They offer Certificates of Ordination and actively advocate in the court system for Pastafarian Rights: that their religion to be treated equally to any other religion in the eyes of governments.