“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” — Confucius
Happy September! What a wild few months we’ve had at OneSpirit. The beautiful and dynamic Class of 2024 was ordained, and you all showed up for them. If you’re like us and want to continue feeling the beautiful warmth that the ordination ceremony brought, you can watch some highlights from the ceremony on our YouTube channel here! We’re also bidding farewell to three of our beloved faculty members and one of our irreplaceable staff members this month. Every day, we receive new inquiries from brave souls asking who we are, what we do, and why we’re here. It’s truly inspiring to see. We’re always working hard for you, constantly striving to be innovative and creative—not only to showcase our ministers and students more but also to give back to you. Whether it’s exciting new content, impactful resources, updated website pages, or simply heartfelt thank-yous, please know that we’re always working to strengthen and improve this community.
This month, the Birch Pathway enrollment closes on September 30th, and we have one final Intro Day of the year for you on September 10th. If you have any questions or need any information in between those dates, you’re always welcome to reach out! When one enrollment ends, another begins, and we’re so looking forward to another season of growth, change, and connection with all of you—and with those who have yet to find us. We’re constantly making changes and updates, and we hope you’re ready for some exciting new initiatives coming soon. Sending you all vibes of good health, high spirits, and a refreshing start to the fall season. That’s all from me, hope you enjoy the ‘news’ – Kailee xx
A Farewell to Those Leaving, Who Have Impacted OneSpirit Beyond Words
Dear Christo, Linda, and Nicola,
As your time with the OneSpirit Faculty comes to a close, we find ourselves both humbled and deeply moved by the outpouring of love and gratitude from our community. Recently, we invited our community to share their thoughts, reflections, and heartfelt messages for each of you, and the response was truly overwhelming. The depth of emotion, the sincerity of gratitude, and the profound appreciation for the impact you’ve had on so many lives were all reflected in the beautiful words we received. It is a testament to the incredible mark you’ve left on this organisation — a mark that is both indelible and immeasurable. Each of you has been a beacon of wisdom, compassion, and dedication, guiding our students and enriching our community in ways that words can scarcely capture. Your presence has not only shaped the lives of those you’ve taught and mentored but has also left an enduring legacy within the very fabric of OneSpirit.
We have compiled the heartfelt reflections from our community into virtual gifts, small tokens of the immense love and gratitude that surround you as you step into the next chapter of your journey. Please know that these expressions are but a glimpse into the deep appreciation we all feel for your contributions, your guidance, and your unwavering commitment to the spirit of OneSpirit. Simply click on the pages below to see the outpour of love and gratitude that our community shared.
Christo, Linda, and Nicola — working alongside you has been more than a privilege; it has been a profound honour. Your dedication to our students, your passion for interfaith understanding, and your unwavering support for this community have been nothing short of inspiring. The lives you’ve touched, the hearts you’ve opened, and the minds you’ve expanded will continue to ripple outward, creating waves of positive change for years to come. As you embark on your new adventures, please carry with you the knowledge that you have made a lasting impact here. We are forever grateful for your time with us, and we will miss you dearly. May your journey ahead be filled with joy, fulfilment, and the same boundless love that you have so generously shared with us.
Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. With love always, your OneSpirit Family.
“In out-of-the-way places of the heart,
Where your thoughts never think to wander,
This beginning has been quietly forming,
Waiting until you were ready to emerge.
For a long time, it has watched your desire,
Feeling the emptiness growing inside you,
Noticing how you willed yourself on,
Still unable to leave what you had outgrown.
It watched you play with the seduction of safety
And the gray promises that sameness whispered,
Heard the waves of turmoil rise and relent,
Wondered if would you always live like this.
Then the delight, when your courage kindled,
And out you stepped onto new ground,
Your eyes are young again with energy and dream,
A path of plenitude opens before you.
Though your destination is not yet clear
You can trust the promise of this opening;
Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning
That is at one with your life’s desire.
Awaken your spirit to adventure;
Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;
Soon you will be home in a new rhythm,
For your soul senses the world that awaits you”
– John O’Donohue, To Bless the Space Between Us
OneSpirit’s Professional & Personal Development Offerings
Enrolment Announcement: Last Chance to Join the Birch Pathway!
Discover the essence of OneSpirit’s Birch Pathway with Annie, our beacon of wisdom and spiritual growth. Annie expertly combines grace, insight, and a deep connection to nature and spirituality, creating a nurturing space for self-discovery and community. As a ‘garden chaplain’ and a writer on life’s interconnectedness, Annie highlights her dedication to diversity, social justice, and empathy. She not only imparts lessons but also guides you towards spiritual awakening and a deeper connection with the world. Whether you wish to deepen your spiritual understanding, pursue ministry, or simply find your footing, Annie’s teachings promise a transformative journey into faith, resilience, and personal evolution. Want to hear from a few of Annie’s current students? Here are their thoughts:
- “Annie is steady, calm, open, knowledgable, curious and loving. She is modelling how to really listen and respond to the actual needs of the people she is interacting with. The materials she is sharing are well thought out, balancing inspiration and practicality. She foregrounds safety and welcomes in her facilitation of the class in a way that invites bravery, accountability and community. I am grateful to be taught by her and share sacred space with her.”
- “I think she’s a beautiful soul and I admire her wisdom and gentle delivery. I feel very safe with her and appreciate her interest in the whole group and her support.”
- “My experience with Annie has been truly inspiring. She is a living embodiment of OneSpirit’s Core Beliefs. She demonstrates, with sensitivity, deep non-judgemental listening together with compassionate communication. I have felt very supported by her when needed. I have much gratitude that she is our Core Tutor.”
To learn more about Annie’s impact on the Birch Pathway and how you can be part of this life-changing adventure, click here.
Important Dates:
- Closing Date for Enrolment Submissions: 30 September 2024
- 2-Year Training Begins: October 2024
Join Us for our final Complimentary Intro Day of 2024
We’re delighted to invite you to our final Intro Day of the year! OneSpirit Intro Days are a fantastic opportunity to learn about our 2-year training programme, explore our curriculum, discover our offerings, and connect with like-minded individuals. During the Intro Day, you’ll have the chance to ask any questions you may have, hear from those who have walked this path before, and gain insights beyond what you’d find on our website. Our Intro Days are a true gift to the community—they’re designed for you, ensuring you feel comfortable with this important life decision. We would be honoured to have you join us!
Here’s all you need to know:
- Date: Tuesday, 10th September 2024
- Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Place: Online via Zoom
This event is absolutely free and designed to give you a sneak peek into our 2-year Spiritual Development & Ministry Training programme. In the meantime, if you have any questions, let us know! Register soon as spots fill up quickly! Click the link to secure your attendance.
Join us in Scotland for a Legal Weddings CPD Workshop
Attention all ministers: We are excited to offer a Legal Weddings Workshop in Scotland! We invite all OneSpirit Ministers, whether you have attended before or are new and not yet on the register.
For those who have never attended this workshop and are seeking nomination to the legal solemniser/officiant register in Scotland, the training is divided into two parts:
- Online Training: Accessible after ordination and can be completed at your own pace. You will be enrolled in this course once you complete the registration form. Please finish the online course before attending the in-person workshop.
- In-Person Workshop: Conducted by local trainers (OneSpirit ministers) actively working in Scotland.
Click here to register your interest!
For those who have attended this CPD training before and are already on the legal solemniser/officiant register in Scotland, this workshop is an excellent opportunity to:
- Fulfil the requirement for ministers with temporary or 3-year authorisation.
- Connect, network, and share experiences with newer ministers.
- Exchange valuable expertise and support with peers.
Click here to register your interest!
If you have any questions, feel free to ask! We look forward to seeing you there and making meaningful connections. Please note, the venue doesn’t provide lunch, so we kindly ask that you bring your own.
- Date: Sunday, 6th October 2024
- Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Venue: Subud Centre, 7 St Leonard’s Bank, Perth, PH2 8EB
- Cost: Ministers who are NOT on the register: £98 (includes online & in-person training) & Ministers who ARE on the register: donation-based!
Elevate Your Ministry and Personal Growth with OneSpirit’s Group Supervision Sessions
We’re excited to announce our revitalised Group Supervision sessions aimed at enhancing your ministry and personal development. These gatherings provide a supportive environment for ministers to share, reflect, and engage in meaningful dialogue with peers, guided by our accredited supervisors. Held on the first Monday of each month, these sessions create a warm, nurturing space for deep reflection on various aspects of ministry.
As OneSpirit Minister & Supervisor Tim Ralphs shares, “I have personally experienced the profound difference that high-quality supervision can make when I’ve felt stuck, conflicted, and pushed to my limits. These experiences of supervision as sacred work have allowed me to be more present with my clients, in deeper relationships with my co-workers, and more alive to the world. They led me to want to explore including supervision among the services I offer.” Our sessions facilitate collaborative learning and professional growth through honest conversations and shared insights. With monthly sessions, you can join at your own pace.
Session Overview:
- Welcome: Each session begins with a warm introduction to foster connection.
- Breakout Rooms: Smaller groups provide personalised attention and tailored supervision.
- Group Size: Limited to six participants per room for an intimate experience.
- Duration: Each session lasts two hours, balancing depth with manageability.
This is your chance to deepen your ministry’s impact and enhance your spiritual journey. We look forward to welcoming you to our next session! More details are coming soon. For now, learn more about our Group Supervision offering here…
OneSpirit’s Community Offerings + Announcements
*most sections below are ‘clickable’ links, meaning, if you click anywhere within the text or image, it will take you to a page where you can learn more!
Share Your Thoughts & Testimonials With Us!
To further establish our organisation and amplify the positive impact of interfaith ministry globally, we’ve set up a Google page! While this is beneficial for us as a charity, it’s even more valuable for those who join our training and walk alongside us. It gives our organisation greater credibility and shows the world who we are—that interfaith and the power of love are spreading and strong.
Now, when you tell someone about OneSpirit and they search for us, they’ll find our profile. It would mean the world to us if you shared your thoughts! Your feedback can guide someone considering our training or any of our offerings. This community is vibrant and essential, and we can’t have an ‘online profile’ without showcasing you—you are what makes up the ‘One’ in ‘OneSpirit’!
Scan the QR code, or simply follow the link here.
Announcing the Class of 2024 Ordination Ceremony YouTube Playlist!
Exciting Opportunities at OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation – Bridging Beliefs, Building Community
We’re delighted to announce that OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation is hiring for two key positions within our vibrant community! We are seeking passionate individuals to join us in roles that will significantly contribute to our mission of fostering interfaith dialogue and community building.
Position 1: Nominator for the Register of Approved Celebrants in Scotland
Position 2: Continuing Professional Development Coordinator in Scotland
While we recognise the advantages of having these roles separate, we’re open to the possibility of combining them if this aligns with your skills and aspirations. If you believe you could excel in either or both roles, please let us know during the application and interview process. Join us in making a difference and help shape a more inclusive and compassionate world!
For more details on how to apply, click the images below, or the position titles above. To apply, simply email admin@osif.org.uk. We look forward to finding the perfect fit for our dynamic team!
The International Day of Charity
On the 5th of September, join us at OneSpirit as we honour the International Day of Charity and reflect on the transformative power of generosity and compassion. This special day reminds us of our collective responsibility to support those in need and to foster a spirit of kindness within our communities. Charity is more than just giving; it embodies compassion and empathy, binding us as a global family. At OneSpirit, we believe that acts of kindness can transcend religious and cultural boundaries, fostering understanding and respect among diverse communities. This International Day of Charity, we invite you to reflect on how even the smallest gestures—whether through volunteering, donating, or simply lending a listening ear—can create ripples of change. Together, let’s celebrate the incredible charitable initiatives flourishing within our interfaith community and commit to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Universal Worship Services with Rev Malaika
We are thrilled to share that our esteemed Rev Malaika has provided us with some exciting details about the upcoming Universal Worship Services! These uplifting services are held at no cost, though donations to support the monastery’s charitable initiatives are warmly welcomed. Join us every third Sunday of the month throughout 2024, from 2 pm to 3:30 pm, in a sacred space that embraces everyone, regardless of faith, to celebrate unity and peace.
The next service will take place on the 15th of September! For further insights and to plan your visit to the Monastery — a haven of tranquillity right in the heart of Manchester — please visit The Monastery’s official website.
Here, you can discover more about this extraordinary venue’s history, its commitment to the community’s well-being, and the array of events that take place within its serene walls. We look forward to sharing this spiritual journey with you at Manchester’s modern-day, multi-faith Monastery, where each occasion is infused with energy and grace. More information: www.themonastery.co.uk.
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Embrace the Journey of Spiritual Awakening with the Birch Pathway
As summer fades into autumn, September offers a unique opportunity for personal transformation and spiritual awakening. Join the Spiritual Development & Ministry Training Programme at OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation for the Class of 2026, with enrolment closing on 30th September! This year, we’re excited to introduce the Birch Pathway—an immersive online curriculum designed to guide you on your spiritual exploration. Just as the Birch tree symbolises new beginnings, this programme will nourish your inner landscape, deepen your spiritual insights, and cultivate your ability to minister with compassion.
Experience profound personal growth through weekly live webinars, covering diverse spiritual practices that prepare you for meaningful companionship and leadership in today’s interconnected world. Don’t miss this call to embrace your spiritual path and connect with a supportive community of like-minded individuals. Your transformative journey begins now—apply for the Birch Pathway and walk this enlightening path with us!
Ubuntu Podcast Show, led by Rev Malaika
In Swahili, Ubuntu means: “humanity towards others…”
The Ubuntu Podcast: I will start from your birth, early memories, childhood friends, and frolics, the teenage years, 20s, 30s, 40s and so on up to the present day…
I am a sensitive, fun-loving and kind interviewer, with a gentle questioning approach. Before the show, you can inform me of any areas you don’t want to discuss. With this, I invite you to be a guest on the podcast. If you would like to listen to previous shows, please advise accordingly.
The show is now a podcast, which will launch in May 2024. You will choose at least 4 favourite tracks to be used on the podcast, like Dessert Island Discs, which will last 2 hours.
“I am because we are, we are because I am.”
For more details or guest confirmation, please contact Rev Malaika directly.
Have you seen our recent posts on social media over the past month?
A reminder about our community feature — Minister Spotlights! It’s hard for me to find specific ministers to spotlight each month, due to the size of our minister community. To make things smoother, I’ve created a form you can fill out for your profile. This form includes five essentials and eight optional questions to inspire you while creating your spotlight. Depending on participation, I’ll publish one or two spotlights each month. This is a fantastic chance to broadcast your talent, services, and distinctiveness to our wider community. The spotlight form will be available in every iConnect. There is also now a special page for Minister Spotlights… meaning, if you partake now, you’ll be one of the first to be showcased! Ready to participate? Just fill out the form below.
Our website features spaces for fostering connections and uniting community members. The Community Collection page is specially reserved for users to submit their posts. Every submission, be it a book, resource guide, diary entry, song, podcast, or nuggets of wisdom through Instagram, contributes to the collective wisdom available to all. This collective endeavour is especially significant for the ministers and students in our community. Their shared resources or inspiring elements can serve as guiding stars for those in the early days of their spiritual journey, or those who are just needing some inspiration wherever they are. Each piece of wisdom shared stands as a testament that no one is alone in their spiritual voyage. We invite you to submit contributions through the form below!
Welcome to our Supervisors Form, designed to showcase your unique voice. As a supervisor, your experience is precious and we aim to share it. In the form, share stories, insights, and services. Complete as much as you wish, no field is mandatory, aside from basic information. If something is missing, add it! This form should be used to highlight you uniquely – complete it in a way that showcases you how you wish to be showcased. We’ll create a spotlight on you and your distinct services, akin to a supervisor’s page on our past site. Visitors will click your name, and access a dedicated page to learn about your contributions. What’s more, you will have a dual profile – one as a minister and one providing deeper insights into your role as a supervisor. We want it to be easy for our students and ministers to find you.
Awareness, Religious, and Spiritual Days
*These days come from the Interfaith Network, if a day is missing it is not deliberate! More can be found here.
- 05 Sep International Day of Charity
- 07 Sep International Day of Police Cooperation, World Duchenne Awareness Day and International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies
- 08 Sep International Literacy Day
- 09 Sep International Day to Protect Education from Attack
- 10 Sept World Suicide Prevention Day
- 12 Sep United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation
- 15 Sep International Day of Democracy
- 15 Sep * Mawlid al-Nabi – Muslims celebrate Prophet Muhammad’s birthday today. They honour this day as they believe he is a messenger of God.
- 16 Sep International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South; International Day for Interventional Cardiology and International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
- 17 Sep World Patient Safety Day [WHO]
- 18 Sep International Equal Pay Day
- 20 Sep World Cleanup Day
- 21 Sep International Day of Peace
- 21 – 29 Sep Mabon – The final celebration in the Wheel of the Year, marking the Autumn Equinox. Celebrated annually around September 21st, Mabon is a moment when day and night are perfectly balanced. As the Earth transitions from the warmth of summer to the cooler embrace of autumn, Mabon invites us to reflect on themes of balance, gratitude, and the abundance of the harvest. For those following a nature-based spiritual path, Mabon is a significant time to connect with the cycles of nature and honour the fruits of our labour. Modern Mabon celebrations are a time to give thanks for the abundance of Mother Earth—both in a literal and spiritual sense. It is also an ideal opportunity to reflect on the Wheel of the Year, recognising your achievements and letting go of what no longer serves you from the past twelve months.
- 23 Sep International Day of Sign Languages
- 26 Sep World Maritime Day and International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons
- 27 Sep World Tourism Day
- 28 Sep International Day for Universal Access to Information
- 29 Sep International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste
- 30 Sep International Translation Day
