TEXT: RAF KATIGBAK PHOTOS: RICHMOND LAM
PHOTO ASSISTANT: MIKE CHUI
STYLIST: MELISSA MATOS
STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: STEPHANIE NADAY

On December 13, 1973, French journalist, singer, songwriter, and race-car driver Rael was on his way to work. He saw a strong flashing light in the sky. A shiny metal object appeared and floated down. The trapdoor slowly opened, and an alien being greeted Rael and asked him to enter the craft. Rael complied, and he was given a message.

Long ago, friendly, technologically advanced aliens arrived on Earth and created life, utilizing clones and DNA. The aliens, who were in fact human, spoke of free love and asked Rael to establish an embassy for our forefathers, who would soon return to Earth.

UFOland—located about two hours outside of Montreal—was born. There you will find condos, a high-tech auditorium, campsites, a small lake, and a replica of the spaceship that carried the human, who delivered the message to Rael.

Currently there are over 60,000 Raelians in 84 countries.


CARMEN NEYRA

Vice: How did you first hear about the Raelian Movement?

Carmen: One day, on the streets of Montreal, I met two young men. We discussed the possibility of extraterrestrial life. In my country, there are numerous traces of extraterrestrial life, for example on the plains of Nazca. These two men left some literature that I read with great interest. I learned, amongst other things, that extraterrestrials called Elohim created all life on Earth thanks to their perfect mastery of genetic engineering. I wanted to know, who were they? When will they return? I went to a gathering and I was so impressed by the sincerity of the people that I decided to participate in the annual sensual stage meditations given by Rael himself.

You’ve met Rael in person?

Of course! In Colombia, we held a conference where I did translation. During the meal we shared the same table. To feel the love he gives off is marvelous. He always talks of love!

SHIZUE KANEKO Raelian Priest Vice: Where were you born? Shizue: Sapporo, Japan. What do you do for a living?  I’m an artist. How did you first hear about the Raelian Movement? I read the book in Japan. When did you join the Raelian Movement? Eighteen years ago. What is your favorite part about being Raelian? Love. Have you ever met Rael up close, in person? Yes, I am his personal assistant. What’s that like?  Each time being around him is a new magical experience. I can never find enough words to describe it. His being, his words, just talking straight to my consciousness, touch me so deeply. It helps me to destroy my fears, helps me to love myself more. After 18 years, it has been the same, he lives what he teaches us, always full of love, enjoying every second of life with passion, with a great sense of humor, always playful and charming. He is the Messiah.

OK overalls

SAM Vice: Where are you from? Sam: France. What do you do for a living? I’m working toward my PhD in psychology. I’m 25 years old. When did you join the Raelian Movement? A few years after my parents became Raelians, my brother and I decided to do a meditation apprenticeship given by Rael himself to discover his teachings and his life philosophy. I loved what I saw and what I heard. What is your favorite part about being Raelian? Every moment is wonderful; my life is extraordinary since I became a Raelian. It’s not limited to a specific instant, because all of it is unforgettable, in my memory and my being.

BLESS sweatshirt

STELLA DESGAGNÉ Where are you from? Longueuil, Quebec. What do you do for a living?  I have a boutique. I sell fine cheese, beer, and high-end food. How did you first hear about the Raelian Movement?   During a religion course in my first year of high school. What is your favorite part about being Raelian? I can be myself and that is important to me. What is your favorite memory of UFOland?  When a guide explained to us how the UFO was built and when he told us a lot of stories about UFOs, it was very interesting and amazing. Have you ever met Rael up close, in person?  A lot of times. What was that like?   I was impressed because Rael is so charismatic and gentle with everybody. He’s easy to understand and his words always leave our mouths agape.

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