Introducing the Cherry Tree Pathway

Jan 30, 2025

In response to the evolving needs of our students, the OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation is excited to introduce the Cherry Tree Pathway for 2025. This innovative two-year Spiritual Development and Ministry Training programme offers a blended learning experience, combining online and in-person elements to cater to diverse learning preferences.

A Blended Approach to Learning

The Cherry Tree Pathway is designed to provide a rich and engaging educational journey through a combination of live weekly webinars, a bespoke online classroom filled with resources, and a dedicated student communications platform. For those seeking in-person connections, the programme includes optional workshops and retreats, offering opportunities for embodied learning and community building.

Curriculum Overview

Our curriculum is dynamic and responsive, structured around six key strands:

  • Exploration of Faith Paths and Worldviews: Delve into diverse spiritual traditions to broaden your understanding and appreciation of global faiths.

  • Ceremony and Ritual: Learn to design and lead meaningful ceremonies that honour various life events and spiritual milestones.

  • Deep Listening Skills: Develop the ability to listen empathetically, fostering genuine connections with others.

  • Spiritual Accompaniment: Gain skills to support others on their spiritual journeys with compassion and insight.

  • Psycho-Spiritual Development: Engage in self-reflective practices to deepen self-awareness and personal growth.

  • Spiritual and Pastoral Service in the Community: Prepare to serve your community through various forms of ministry and outreach.

Key Features of the Cherry Tree Pathway

  • Weekly Webinars: Participate in live sessions every Wednesday evening, featuring a mix of whole-class meetings and small group work, all facilitated by experienced tutors.

  • Online Classroom: Access a bespoke online platform that supports your independent learning with a wealth of resources and materials.

  • Tutor Support: Benefit from regular one-on-one meetings with your tutor team, providing personalised guidance and support throughout your training.

  • Optional Modules: Enhance your learning experience by participating in optional modules, available in both online and in-person formats.

  • Spiritual Practice: Engage in daily spiritual practices integrated into webinars, one-on-one sessions, and study groups, supporting your ministerial development.

Join Us on This Transformative Journey

The Cherry Tree Pathway is more than a training programme; it’s an invitation to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and community service. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your own spiritual practice or feel called to serve others as an Interfaith Minister, this pathway offers the tools, support, and community to help you flourish. Enrolment is now open until 30th September.

For more information and to apply, please visit our Ministry Training Page. Embrace the opportunity to grow within a diverse and inclusive community, and take the next step on your spiritual journey with OneSpirit.

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.

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.

OneSpirit Staff Reflections: Kailee

In this first staff reflection of our "OneSpirit Reflections" series and the first reflection of 2025, Kailee shares her journey to becoming the Communications Lead at OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation. Driven by a lifelong passion for global cultures and inclusive communication, Kailee reflects on her diverse experiences—from teaching English abroad to advocating for marginalized communities in Washington, D.C. She explores how these experiences have shaped her work at OneSpirit, where she is inspired to create content that fosters connection and empowers individuals in alignment with the foundation's interfaith mission.

Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day reminds us of our shared responsibility to uphold dignity, equality, and freedom for all. Inspired by our foundation's origins, we honour this day with a call to action, inviting reflection, kindness, and community efforts to support human rights worldwide.

Celebrating Bodhi Day

Bodhi Day, celebrated on December 8th, honours the Buddha’s journey to enlightenment and invites us to awaken our own compassion, clarity, and kindness. Reflect on the light within, and embrace acts of mindfulness and connection on this special day.

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.