International Day of Charity

Aug 28, 2024

As we celebrate the International Day of Charity on the 5th of September, we at OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation reflect on the profound impact that generosity and compassion can have on our communities and the world at large. This day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to support those in need and promote a spirit of kindness and generosity.

Charity is not merely an act of giving; it embodies the values of compassion and empathy that bind us together as a global family. At OneSpirit, we recognise that charity transcends religious and cultural boundaries, fostering understanding and respect among diverse communities. Our mission is deeply rooted in the belief that every act of kindness contributes to a more just and harmonious world.

The International Day of Charity encourages us to reflect on the importance of charitable acts in our daily lives. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply offering a listening ear, each small gesture can create ripples of change. Our commitment to interfaith dialogue and education underscores the idea that by working together, we can tackle the pressing challenges facing our society and foster a sense of belonging for all.

At OneSpirit, we celebrate the numerous charitable initiatives that flourish within our interfaith community. These initiatives exemplify the power of collaboration, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to work towards common goals. From providing support to the underprivileged to promoting education and empowerment, our collective efforts exemplify the transformative power of charity.

On this International Day of Charity, we invite you to join us in honouring the spirit of giving. Let us commit to making a difference in the lives of others, extending our hands and hearts to those in need. Together, we can cultivate a culture of generosity that uplifts individuals and communities alike.

Let’s celebrate the potential of charity to unite us, inspire us, and lead us towards a future marked by compassion, understanding, and love for all humanity.

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Women’s History Month: Indigenous Women Leaders

Indigenous women have long been central to the spiritual and cultural life of their communities, yet their leadership has often been overlooked. From ancient traditions to contemporary movements, women are reclaiming spiritual authority and revitalising practices passed down through generations. In communities such as the Lakota and Haudenosaunee, women have historically held positions of spiritual leadership, and today, figures like Winona LaDuke and Tiana Ngata continue to lead efforts to preserve and strengthen Indigenous spiritual practices. As these women reclaim their rightful roles, they ensure that Indigenous spirituality remains a powerful force in today’s world.

Women’s History Month: Women in Spiritual Traditions

Women have played a crucial role in shaping spiritual traditions, from revered figures like Kuan Yin and Táhirih to trailblazing leaders such as Harriet Tubman and Phyllis Curott. Despite facing exclusion, women continue to reclaim leadership roles and push for gender equality within spiritual communities, ensuring traditions remain inclusive and vibrant. This Women’s History Month, we honour their resilience and lasting influence.

Month of Ministry ‘War’ Reflection

In Day 21 of #MonthOfMinistry, the prompt "War" reflects on the internal battles we sometimes fight, between our true selves and the identities imposed upon us. The author of this post, Birch Pathway Student Justin, shares a personal struggle, likening the inner conflict to the external wars that ravage our world, both born from the destructive belief that peace can only come through conquest. The message encourages finding true peace not through domination, but through understanding, justice, and love, reminding us that we must first reconcile with ourselves to end the wars we impose on others.

The Power of Inclusive Storytelling

In a recent interview with MysticMag, our Communications and Marketing Lead, Kailee Smart, shares her insights on creating marketing that is both peaceful and inclusive. She discusses the heart of OneSpirit’s approach to communication — fostering connection, clarity, and a sense of belonging for all. From shaping the tone of our messaging to ensuring accessibility, Kailee highlights how communications can be a bridge for understanding and community.

Introducing the Cherry Tree Pathway

We’re thrilled to mark the commencement of enrolment for our Spiritual Development and Ministry Training. This year, we are proud to introduce the Cherry Tree Pathway - which is a new offering that continues to be an entirely online curriculum, with optional in-person opportunities, designed for your convenience. Enrolment is officially open NOW – and will close on the 30th of September, with the training beginning in October!

Wednesday Wisdom: Bali

In this first student reflection of our "OneSpirit Reflections" series, a member of Aspen Class, Andrew, shares a deeply personal ceremony held at a local beach, marking the transition from year 1 to year 2 of their Interfaith Minister training. The reflection weaves together themes of gratitude, self-discovery, and connection to nature, as the student honours the sacredness of everyday moments and the role ceremony plays in their spiritual journey. This intimate experience offers insight into the evolving relationship between the student and the Earth, celebrating the sacredness of place and the power of ritual in marking life's pivotal moments.

OneSpirit Staff Reflections: Kailee

In this first staff reflection of our "OneSpirit Reflections" series and the first reflection of 2025, Kailee shares her journey to becoming the Communications Lead at OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation. Driven by a lifelong passion for global cultures and inclusive communication, Kailee reflects on her diverse experiences—from teaching English abroad to advocating for marginalized communities in Washington, D.C. She explores how these experiences have shaped her work at OneSpirit, where she is inspired to create content that fosters connection and empowers individuals in alignment with the foundation's interfaith mission.

Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day reminds us of our shared responsibility to uphold dignity, equality, and freedom for all. Inspired by our foundation's origins, we honour this day with a call to action, inviting reflection, kindness, and community efforts to support human rights worldwide.

Introducing the Cherry Tree Pathway

The Cherry Tree Pathway is our new blended learning programme, offering a mix of online and in-person experiences for those seeking a flexible approach to spiritual development.

Redefining Interfaith

We celebrate a new, inclusive vision of interfaith, one that welcomes all spiritual paths, honoring the richness of personal experience beyond traditional religions.

Demystifying Interfaith: Moving Forward

Interfaith dialogue goes beyond religious boundaries, embracing diverse spiritual and secular perspectives. This inclusive approach fosters understanding and respect for all paths.