From Jaimie
Last summer during Sabbatical, I took part in a short, one day online training for clergy, spiritual care advisors and lay ministers who were seeking to better equip themselves for ministry at the many protests, vigils and other direct social actions taking place across the country. The training was conducted by an organization known as the Faith Matters Network who strives to catalyze personal and social change by equipping community organizers, faith leaders, and activists with resources for connection, spiritual sustainability, and accompaniment. After experiencing the one-day training, I discovered that they were offering a 12 week training course in the fall for faith leaders who wanted a deeper dive into the work of movement chaplaincy.
I took part in the fall learning collective through online learning platforms. In addition to new skills and knowledge on chaplaincy, I came away from the course with three gains: many new books, a taste of intentional nonviolence practices and deeper spiritual practices.
Books--At the end of each course section, there was quite the bibliography offered! I was able to order a fair number of (previously owned) reference books on creating ritual space in interfaith settings, restorative justice practices and theology that I can use for ongoing training and skills development.
Nonviolence--prior to this course, I had only a precursory understanding of the personal and collective practice of nonviolence. I had no idea of the transformative power of nonviolence both for individuals and communities. Nonviolence is a foundational, core value for Faith Matters Network and the social movements they support and sustain.
Spiritual Practices--in the work of chaplaincy and spiritual care, the chaplain’s spiritual life is vital. I learned that spiritual practice is not just a good or healthy idea. It is essential, preventative care that allows those who do the work of spiritual accompaniment to show up fully in the work to which we are called. The course deepened my own spiritual practice and challenged me to pay attention far more closely to my own spiritual health so that I can tend to the spiritual health of others.
This approach to ministry has had an impact not only in how I minister in social movement settings but also in ministry to and with our staff and building users at FCC. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow. If you would like to learn more about Faith Matters Network, you can visit their website at faithmattersnetwork.org.