Celebrating Love Today & Everyday

May 23, 2024

June brings with it a flourish of colours, voices of courage and resilience, echoing through the streets in celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. At OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation, we find deep resonance with the spirit of this month, rooted as we are in values of respect, acceptance, and inclusivity.

Pride Month is much more than a vibrant celebration of identities; it marks a poignant moment in the history of gay liberation that stemmed from the Stonewall riots of 1969. This period of protests and calls for social equality underscores the enduring importance of Pride Month as a commemoration of progress, courage, and resilience.

Within the rich tapestry of human diversity—encompassing faith, culture, race, sexuality, and gender—we discover the true beauty of our shared humanity. OneSpirit is committed to honouring this diversity, fostering understanding across all differences. Pride Month beautifully mirrors our belief in the power of acceptance and living one’s truth.

Our role as interfaith ministers is likened to the many hues within a rainbow; we bridge gaps, connect diverse backgrounds, and stand for harmonious coexistence. Just like the colours of the Pride flag symbolise various aspects of the LGBTQ+ community, our community shines with diverse faiths, beliefs, and personalities living together in unity.

Every person deserves to love and be loved. It really is that simple.

This Pride Month, we extend a call to acts of loving-kindness within our community and beyond. Whether through a message of support, helping someone on their personal journey, or enriching your understanding of the narratives within the LGBTQ+ community, we believe every act of love counts.

At OneSpirit, we stand together, united in respect, acceptance, and pride, welcoming all individuals, irrespective of gender, sexuality, faith, race, or anything else. It’s in our differences we find strength and within acceptance, unity. Let’s uplift each other this Pride Month, celebrating the diversity of love and the universal journey we share. Love knows no boundaries, and our embrace should be just as boundless.

Here’s to embracing diversity, love, and pride, not just this month but every day.

GO BACK

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated from 31st October to 4th November, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This vibrant festival invites us to cleanse our minds and homes, welcoming positivity and joy. As we illuminate our surroundings with diyas, let us also reflect on the inner light of kindness and understanding that guides us through life’s challenges. Join us in exploring the rich traditions and profound meanings of Diwali, a time for renewal and unity within our communities.

Honouring Our Elders: International Day of Older Persons

On the International Day of Older Persons, we reflect on the wisdom and influence of our ancestors, whose guidance shapes the world we live in today. Their teachings remind us of the enduring values that connect us across time. At the same time, younger generations bring fresh energy and innovation, ensuring that this wisdom evolves. By honouring both past and present, we create a balanced and harmonious future where each generation contributes to the richness of our shared journey.

OneSpirit Minister Reflections: Holly

In this first of our "OneSpirit Reflections" series, OneSpirit minister Holly Chetan-Welsh reflects on the profound journey that followed their ordination, marking their first year as an ordained Interfaith Minister. As they celebrate the anniversary of this milestone, they explore the highs and lows experienced during what many refer to as the informal "third year" of training. With heartfelt honesty, they describe the challenges of adjusting to life after the intense two-year course, confronting feelings of loss, and the gradual realisation that the path of ministry does not end with ordination—it evolves. Their reflection offers insight and encouragement to newly ordained ministers, reminding them to embrace this transformative period and seek support when needed.

International Day of Charity

On the International Day of Charity, we're reminded of our collective duty to cultivate a world of compassion and solidarity. OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation leads by example, advocating for peace and unity across different faiths since 1996. Far surpassing conventional educational roles, OneSpirit offers a transformative Ministry Training Programme and various workshops aimed at encouraging understanding and spiritual growth among diverse communities. Charity, as seen through OneSpirit's lens, encompasses more than financial contributions; it's about sharing knowledge, fostering spiritual development, and building a shared humanity. As we celebrate this day, we're inspired to partake in acts of kindness, whether by donating, volunteering, or engaging with OneSpirit's enriching educational content, reinforcing our commitment to a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Embrace the Journey of Spiritual Awakening with the Birch Pathway

As autumn approaches, seize the transformative opportunity offered by OneSpirit's Spiritual Development & Ministry Training Programme for the Class of 2026. The Birch Pathway, an immersive online programme training, promises to deepen your spiritual insights and prepare you for compassionate ministry. Under the nurturing guidance of experienced mentors like Annie, this transformative curriculum is your gateway to spiritual leadership and community connection. Act fast — enrolment closes on September 30th! Embrace this chance for profound personal and spiritual growth.

Our Friends at the ALEF Trust

Explore transformative learning with the Alef Trust's MSc in Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology. This fully online programme, starting this September, interweaves academic, personal, and professional development, and is validated by Liverpool John Moores University, UK. Engage in reflective dialogues, benefit from comprehensive support, and become part of a vibrant alumni community. Last-minute applications are now open. Keep reading for further information...

Supervisor’s Corner, August 2024

Embracing the Sacred Journey of Supervision through August's Supervisor Corner: This summer, we celebrate the ordination of our new ministers and reflect on the growth of our First Years within the OneSpirit community. At this pivotal time, we explore the various dimensions of supervision in ministry. Supervision sharpens our awareness and deepens our commitment to our diverse callings. It can shift focus fluidly, whether diving deep into specific interactions or zooming out to broader patterns and personal callings. Supervision is transformative, offering a space for role-playing different approaches, examining recurring themes, or seeking guidance on significant life transitions. Continue reading to learn more...

Honouring Victims of Religion or Belief-Based Violence

On the 22nd of August, the world honours the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, a vital remembrance for those who have suffered due to their faith. OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation champions the ideals of understanding and acceptance, emphasising the importance of interfaith dialogue and education to combat intolerance and discrimination. This day not only serves as a sober reflection on past and ongoing religious persecution but also as a call to action towards inclusivity, peace, and mutual respect globally. Join us in solidarity to remember the victims and to commit to a future of freedom and safety for all beliefs, promoting a more compassionate and united world.

Enrolment is Officially Open!

Enrolment for OneSpirit’s Spiritual Development and Ministry Training program is open. With over 25 years of experience, it nurtures spiritual growth and leadership, fostering global consciousness, compassion, and interconnectedness in an evolving world.

Interfaith Dialogue

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.

Redefining Interfaith: Holistically and Inclusively

We redefine interfaith to be more inclusive, embracing diverse spiritual experiences beyond traditional religions. Their vision fosters unity by honouring individual spirituality, aiming for a compassionate community that celebrates spiritual diversity.