COMMUNITY COLLECTION

OneSpirit Faculty Reflections: Monica
In this first faculty reflection of our "OneSpirit Reflections" series, Monica Douglas explores the profound power of togetherness and connection. Reflecting on her experience as a tutor for the Class of 2024 OneSpirit Interfaith Ministers, Monica candidly shares the challenges and joys of guiding a diverse group of individuals through their journey towards ordination. With heartfelt insight, she highlights how true togetherness is not about agreement or avoiding difficult conversations, but about embracing differences and standing in loving connection, even through the messiness of life. Monica also speaks to the importance of nature in fostering a sense of unity and self-love, and encourages us to find solace in the interconnectedness of the natural world. Through her reflection, she offers a message of hope, reminding us that by embracing connection, we can create a better world—one relationship at a time.
All Saints’ Day: A Time of Honour, Reflection, and Interfaith Resonance
All Saints' Day, traditionally a Christian celebration honouring saints known and unknown, carries themes that resonate across many faith traditions. This article reflects on how the values of love, service, and compassion, central to All Saints' Day, are also present in spiritual practices worldwide. By recognising the common virtues that unite us, we honour not only Christian saints but also the countless individuals from all beliefs who inspire us to lead with kindness and purpose.
Scottish Interfaith Week
As Scottish Interfaith Week approaches from 11 to 18 November, we reflect on the resilience and vitality of interfaith engagement across the nation. Despite the closure of the larger interfaith network, local groups continue to foster dialogue and compassion. Two of our dedicated ROSIM members have reached out to share their involvement in exciting events during this week. Join us as we highlight these opportunities for connection, reflection, and growth within our interfaith community!
Transgender Day of Remembrance: A Call for Reflection & Action
Join us in honouring the Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th, as we reflect on lives lost to transphobia and stand together for dignity, acceptance, and justice for all.

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Supervisors Corner, August Reflections

In the summer, the OneSpirit community welcomes new ordinands and supports First Years reflecting on their journeys. Supervision plays a vital role, helping individuals heed their calling to ministry while exploring different scopes and scales.

Interfaith Dialogue and Cultivating Peace

OneSpirit fosters interfaith dialogue,
where individuals from varied faith paths
engage in rich discussions to exchange
wisdom. The aim is to deepen understanding, cultivate peace, and promote
spiritual growth.

Anti Racism Reading Group Notes

The Anti-Racism Reading Group focuses on identifying and undoing personal racism patterns via self-reflection, acknowledging these as barriers to spiritual connections. It’s part of a deeper spiritual journey toward unity with oneself, others, and the divine.

Resourcing from Myth…

OneSpirit Minister & Tutor Tim Ralphs presents an exploration of the power of myths and storytelling. It shares a poignant story of a man connecting his grief to a mythic tale. The post discusses the timeless impact of myths, their potential therapeutic value, and self-exploration.

What is an Interfaith Minister?

The #MonthofMinistry, initiated by Revs Sass Adams & Jo Royle, encourages OneSpirit Ministers to share their practices online. Aimed at defining ‘What is an interfaith minister?’, the campaign fosters community outreach through social media and personal stories.

Finding and Maintaining Your Peace

In a world marred by conflict, OneSpirit envisions a united global community upholding peace and understanding. Urging moments of introspection and kindness, they share resources for mental and spiritual solace to nurture inner peace and interconnectedness.

Mindfulness: A Pathway to Inner Peace

Mindfulness is spotlighted by OneSpirit as a doorway to inner peace and heightened spirituality. Emphasising its roots in Eastern traditions, it serves as a remedy to modern life’s chaos, supporting anyone’s spiritual
exploration towards serenity.

Finding Hope on Earth Day 2023

On Earth Day 2023, activists gather in London, filled with hope and unity for climate justice. Despite setbacks like Bristol Airport’s expansion, hope thrives on gratitude and action, fostering resilience and a deeper connection with
the Earth and each other.

Ageing with Awareness by Felice Rhiannon

Rev. Felice Rhiannon’s “Ageing with Awareness” transitions from blog to book, offering 52 weekly contemplations. It challenges ageing stereotypes, promoting a conscious, joyful journey into elderhood with an invitation to rewrite life stories with freedom and wisdom.

Soul Work

Soul Work, introduced by Rev. Bryony Wildblood, blends traditional therapy with creativity, offering a dynamic approach through ceremony, ritual, and nature immersion. It seeks deeper connections, embracing body wisdom and personal rites for holistic healing.

“After Ordination” – A Phase to Tend

After ordination, OneSpirit’s newest ministers embark on a reflective phase, merging ceremony and personal growth. A time of integration, it’s likened to a ‘4th trimester’, deeply honoring the transformation initiated by their vows and the community’s collective evolution.

Diversity and Interfaith – a personal perspective

Rev Annie Heppenstall shares insights into interfaith engagement, emphasizing deep listening and personal growth through diverse encounters. Inspired by multifaceted beliefs, she highlights the power of empathy and love in bridging differences for a better world.

Peace Prayer in a Time of War

OneSpirit shares ‘Peace Prayer in a Time of War’ by Minister Anthea Ballam. Amid violent conflict, the prayer is a plea for world peace, cessation of arms production and deployment, aiming for a world where nature’s tranquillity resounds
louder than warfare.

Elements of Ordination

OneSpirit integrates symbolic elements into their ordination ceremonies, including a candle, bell sound, a stole, anointing, and closing gestures. Each brings personal depth and meaning, from divine presence to mindfulness reminders, service symbolism, and honouring greetings.

Presence of Love – Prayers for the World

The Presence of Love Retreat, led by Rev. Christo, encouraged participants to embody love, exploring: Philia (interpersonal love), Eros (passionate love), and Agape (wonder-inspired love). Activities included discussions and body prayer, all fostering understanding.

Choose your words: Language & Stereotypes

Reflecting on World Suicide Prevention Day, OneSpirit emphasises the power of language to combat stigma, suggesting phrases like “died by suicide” instead of “committed suicide,” and advocates for compassion and education to support mental wellness.