Elements of Ordination

Aug 18, 2021

OneSpirit has a reputation for holding beautiful ordination ceremonies. These events moved me, even as a visitor, long before I was a member of the organisation.

Driven by the global circumstances of the last two years, we have worked as a team to harness the challenges of translating the power of ordination into online and ‘hybrid’ contexts.

There are several symbolic, sensory aspects to the ceremony, which have helped us to keep the sense of continuity, as well as the feeling of personal depth and meaning. We encourage you to reflect on what these mean for you personally, and how you interpret them in your own contexts:

The Candle: This can represent the presence of the divine, or the warmth and light of love or of hope, and the mysterious energy of fire or of life itself – the sunlight held in every leaf.

The Sound of a Bell: To me, this is a call to ‘awake’, or to be mindful in the moment. I use the same singing bowl in the ordination ceremony that I use in my own meditation.

A Stole: Ordinands are invited to put on a stole or an equivalent, which they have been reflecting on since the first year, when we make them for one another and gift them, in the ceremony. ‘Stole’ is a Latin word for a large length of fabric which was worn by women – like the one on the Statue of Liberty! – but which over time came to be associated with the leadership of rituals. It might mean a towel of service, or a scarf of office, a prayer shawl, a prayer-bead rope, the proclaiming of seasonal or elemental energy.

Anointing: Following the moment of ordination, the newly ordained minister is invited to anoint themselves. This is usually with a base oil such as olive oil, perhaps with drops of a favourite essential oil, but anointing has different meanings and variations in different traditions. It might for example have a healing quality, or of honouring, or of consecrating as sacred – perhaps all three. Like the other symbols, this might remind you of a ceremony in your own family system or tradition and have special meaning for you because of this.

The closing Gesture: The closing gesture is to bring hands together, and we often call this the ‘Namaste’ gesture, recognising the Hindu origin, but it is also recognised as one of prayer and respectful greeting around the world. To me, this expresses a loving greeting that is at the heart of our ministry and the spirit of our ordination: ‘the divine in me honours the divine in you.’

I hope these reflections can offer an affirmation of your own ordination.

~ Written by OneSpirit Core Tutor, Annie Heppenstall

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.