Why OneSpirit’s approach is different
In today’s world of endless information, real transformation is rare. At OneSpirit, we don’t just pass on knowledge. We offer formation, a way of learning that changes who you are, not just what you know.
Rooted in evidence, grounded in practice
Our curriculum is built on:
- Neuroscience research: showing how contemplative practices reshape the brain for empathy and presence.
- Adult learning principles: using reflection and dialogue rather than rote memorisation.
- Trauma-informed practice: creating safe conditions for depth and growth.
Students do not just learn about presence and compassion. They practise and embody them, reshaping how they live and serve.
Every tradition honoured equally
Each tradition is taught on its own terms:
- Buddhism through meditation and practice.
- Indigenous wisdom through story and ceremony.
- Islamic mysticism through poetry and contemplation.
This ensures genuine respect, preparing graduates to serve with integrity in diverse communities.
Learning in community
Formation happens through relationships. Students journey in small cohorts, supported by peers and experienced supervisors. Together they create safe, authentic spaces where transformation takes root and is witnessed.
The spiral of sacred becoming
Our curriculum follows a four-movement cycle that repeats and deepens over time:
- Sensing – meeting traditions as living encounters.
- Reflecting – exploring responses in dialogue.
- Integrating – weaving individual insight into collective wisdom.
- Languaging – giving form through reflection, practice, or creative expression.
This spiral ensures learning is embodied and lasting, not just intellectual.
Assessment that honours growth
Instead of exams, students build reflective portfolios, weaving journals, projects and creative work into a story of their transformation. The process culminates in a Minister Manual, shared with peers as a collective recognition of readiness.
What becomes possible
Graduates carry their formation into the world in many different ways. Some become visible as ministers, celebrants, chaplains, counsellors, educators and activists. Others bring their learning quietly into their families, friendships, workplaces and communities.
Here are just some of the ways our graduates live their ministry:
- Ceremony & Celebration: creating inclusive weddings, funerals, baby blessings and rites of passage.
- Spiritual Accompaniment: offering chaplaincy in hospitals, prisons, universities and hospices, or serving as spiritual directors and companions.
- Community & Peacebuilding: leading dialogue across difference, supporting diversity and inclusion, and championing ecological and social justice.
- Healing & Support: working as end-of-life doulas, counsellors, coaches or holistic practitioners.
- Creativity & Expression: writing, art, music and storytelling that celebrate and explore the sacred.
- Education & Literacy: teaching spiritual literacy, leading retreats and designing workshops for seekers.
- Everyday Ministry: embodying compassion in parenting, tending relationships with presence, or finding sacredness in the simple routines of daily life.
Every journey is unique, but all are rooted in compassion, presence and service.
Learn through the Cherry Tree Pathway
OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation offers a two-year Spiritual Development and Ministry Training for those called to serve people of all faiths and none. Our ‘Cherry Tree Pathway’ integrates the wisdom of nature with spiritual practice, offering both online and in-person experiences that honour the healing power of the natural world.
The next cohort begins in October 2025, and enrolment closes on the 30th of September 2025.
