A group of self-described “eco-feminist” nuns in Merced County is trying to heal the world — one joint at a time.

The Sisters of the Valley are unaffiliated with any religion and don’t live in a traditional convent. The pungent smell of marijuana floats through the air of their farm.

“Look, the average age of a new Catholic nun in America is 78,” says Sister Kate, founder of the sect, which has 22 sisters and eight brothers worldwide. “Christianity is dying all around us. What are people going to do? They need spirituality in their life; we need it for meaning. We are very spiritual beings walking a physical path, and so for that reason we will find ways to connect.”

Their quest is to “heal the world” through the plant-based “medicines” they sell. And, the world is paying attention: The Sisters of the Valley have nearly 50,000 followers on Instagram.

Read more at Rolling Stone in a finely written article by Corrine Ciani accompanied by fabulous photos from Yana Yatsuk.

Watch: Who Are the Sisters of the Valley?