25 Years of OneSpirit Reflections

Nov 25, 2021

Dear OneSpirit Community,

Here we are 25 years on from the beginning of OneSpirit and what a delight it is to be a part of that time! Since the organisation began in 1996, we have witnessed 23 Ordinations and seen over 900 graduates of our school step into ministry, each making their own unique contribution to the world.

We have taken great joy in watching the community we are part of grow in numbers and strength, adapting and thriving through beautiful and challenging times. Our shared passion for OneSpirit’s purpose has sustained and supported us as a team, as we have weathered the challenges of the last two years with flexibility, adaptability, and great resilience to the demands of moving to a virtual space while maintaining the quality of education throughout.

As we celebrate these achievements, there is also a poignancy to this milestone, as three dearly cherished members of our team will be moving on in the coming months. It is with the greatest sadness that we prepare to say goodbye to Jackie, Lindsay and Rowan.

Jackie Amos Wilkinson embarks upon her retirement at the end of March. Jackie has been a part of this organisation since 2009, and in that time has been a tutor, a trustee, Faculty Lead, and most recently Director of Education and a member of the Executive team. Her influence on the organisation will continue to be felt for many years after she has left, her wisdom, innate kindness and generosity serving as an inspiration to all who have worked with her.

Rowan Bombadil has been with us as Information and Events Coordinator since 2017. Many of you will have been in communication with Rowan during that time as they responded to your queries, whether as a student or minister. What you may not know is the central role that Rowan has played in helping us plan, organise and stream successful ordination ceremonies during the pandemic. We cannot imagine how we would have managed without their calm presence and humour in the face of everything the universe could throw at us.

And last, but by no means least, dear Lindsay, who for so many is synonymous with OneSpirit. Lindsay Jarrett has been with OneSpirit since 2007 and will have touched the lives of so many of you during the last 14 years. Always ready to help, nothing has ever been too much trouble for Lindsay. Many of you will have first encountered her as you began your journey with us as prospective students, and will have felt the love, warmth and care with which she greets all who approach us in a spirit of enquiry. For so many years, she has been the beating heart of OneSpirit, and it is hard for any of us to imagine how OneSpirit’s work can continue without her holding the strings. We know that you will all join us in wishing her a well-deserved rest and a happy retirement by the sea.

As we move into our 26th year, we hold a strong and lasting gratitude for all those who have helped this organisation grow over the years. We especially want to thank each member of our community, for you hold a place in our very foundations. We are grateful for new students who bring new perspectives, and who challenge us to continue growing and developing. to each of you who have been with us – now holding a place in our very foundations. Together, we make a wonderful and unique space to be a part of.

With your support, we are looking forward with optimism and strong belief in our exciting future!

With best wishes,

~ Written by Onespirit’s Director of Operations, Alan Briscoe

GO BACK

10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Making Spirituality My Career

Rev April Kling shares 10 honest lessons from her spiritual career so far — filled with warmth, insight, and encouragement for anyone considering a soul-led path.

What if my life was an act of reverence?

What if your whole life was an act of reverence? In this poetic reflection, OneSpirit student Andrew Jones explores how deep attention, presence, and love can transform the everyday into the sacred.

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.

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.