Dear Aspirant,
Thank you for your interest in learning more about The Denver House of Perpetual Joy. We’re genuinely glad you’ve taken this curious step toward us.
From the outside, people often notice the sparkle first: joyful clergy, bold looks, a little mischief, a lot of presence. But beneath that is something steadier: a deep commitment to service, compassion, and creative activism in our community.
Our purpose is both simple and ambitious: to spread love, lift spirits, and show up where we are needed. That work can take many forms: fundraising, outreach, ministry, education, advocacy, performance, or some joyful combination of them all. Each member brings something different, and together those differences become our strength.
A BIT OF CONTEXT
The broader movement we draw inspiration from began in 1979 in San Francisco and has over 45 years of history in queer communities. While we honor that lineage, it’s important to be clear:
As of January 1, 2026, The Denver House of Perpetual Joy is not an official trademark House of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.
When asked, we simply say: “We are the House of Perpetual Joy.”
If you’d like to better understand the roots and spirit that inform this work, we encourage you to explore:
(We especially recommend reading “Become a Nun” and “Sistory” on the San Francisco site.)
WHAT IT MEANS TO BEGIN
You’ll see us use the word Aspirant. Think of it less as a title and more as a season of curiosity.
An Aspirant is not a member and does not represent the House. You are, in many ways, a welcomed guest—observing, asking questions, and deciding whether this path feels right for you.
During this time, we ask you to:
- Attend at least one event
- Sit in on an in-person meeting
It’s a chance for you to get to know us and for us to get to know you. If it feels like a good fit on both sides, the House may vote to invite you forward.
THE PATH FORWARD
If you choose to continue, the journey unfolds in stages:
ASPIRANT
A period of exploration and connection. At this point, you are aspiring to become a member, and you are volunteer or shadow. We ask that you attend a couple of events, and a meeting; so our members can meet you, and you meet the members. Just so we know if you are a good fit for our House. This period can take up to 2-3 months.
POSTULANT
You are now seen publicly as part of the House, and you are now a member in training. You’ll begin participating more actively: attending events in simple white presentation, learning our mission and “Sistory,” and completing a Postulant Project reflecting what you’ve learned. Depending on your availability, this period may take 5 to 12 months.
NOVICE
This is a time of deeper commitment, creative expression, mentorship, and leading your own community or charity project before moving toward full profession. You are continuing to learn, and we will share a new ritual for you to share with the community. Depending on your availability, this period may take 5 to 12 months.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
This path is joyful, but it is also a commitment.
- Time: a few events a month and occasional meetings
- Resources: costuming and makeup can add up
- Heart: a genuine desire to serve, show up, and work alongside others
We also organize ourselves across three paths: Sister, Brother, or Guard, each with its own expression of service and presence.
Communication evolves as you do; Aspirants connect through standard channels (email, phone, social), while Postulants and beyond are invited into our Discord community.
If you’re still intrigued, we invite you to reflect honestly:
- Is this something you feel called to explore more deeply?
- If so, you’re welcome to let us know your intention to Aspire, and complete our membership application so we can begin getting to know your voice, your spark, and your why.
We’re glad you’re here, and we look forward to what may unfold.
With joy,
The Denver House of Perpetual Joy