All the time I was in seminary, I heard voices wishing and hoping ChI would become “more.” Some were wishing it would grow and mature, some hoping for a “spiritual community” to be part of both actively and professionally. Others hoping it didn’t turn into some traditional, impersonal institution. But, all with their eyes on the dream of a realized Interfaith Spiritual Community and accredited Seminary.
So, in 2011, when faculty, staff and board began the process to take ChI to the next level, the challenges and barriers of being a small, still young and limited-budgeted organization became clear. The dream did change, but the on-the-ground plan had to be built within the limits of possibilities – not enough money to pay for the necessary resources for the work that needs to be done. The solution could lay in generosity from donors and ChI ordained Ministers and alumna. But in hard economic times, what’s realistic to expect?
Volunteers! People might have a bit of time they could donate as though it were money – time is money. Our community is clearly talented in so many ways; we must have the necessary skills. Could it work? Is it possible for people far away to pitch in? How would it happen? Who would do it? Who would be willing?
I was in the ordination class of March 2011 and heard this idea, this call, this invitation loud and clear. I’ve always been outside the norm, I’ve always been part of the alternative, but this was a chance for “my seminary” to be an accredited, authentic member of the Interfaith World. I could afford to put my shoulder to the wheel and help push the dream forward for awhile. I have muscle, the kind that was needed.
So, I’ve been volunteering with Vicki Weiland, Director of Strategy & Development, building our organizational partners and thereby our reputation and standing in the larger community. I’ve also gotten to be part of working on the marketing part of the strategic plan; and it’s been remarkably easy.
I don’t have to go anywhere, I always call in either on the phone or by Skype. We meet at an easy pace that works for all participating. I only have to do what I offer to do; and staff, like Vicki and Vanessa, are more than willing to remind, support, help and adjust to my needs as they arise.
I attend the Spiritual Interfaith Service that happens on the Saturday afternoon of the monthly module because it is a nourishing spiritual place for me to spend an hour once a month, and, it is helping to build the spiritual community so many of us said we longed for.
Were you one of those longing for that circle of love and compassion in your life? If you live in short travel to ChI, it’s here, it’s happening. For those of you farther away, our generous service planners are exploring a virtual participation venue. It is possible! We just need to figure it out! In the meantime, videos and/or photos of the services are available online so you can feel what we’re creating together.
So, here are two places where you can help build the dream you yourself had for your seminary. One, volunteer. I invite you to work with me to help build our reputation and connection to other groups so we can attract more students, more credibility and more funds. Two, attend and participate in the monthly services. You can call or email me to chat about possibilities anytime: 415-218-1580 / smooney @ horizoncable.com if you’d like to join our Partners team. If you’d like to join the Interfaith Services Planning Committee, contact Debbie Moody at dmoody @ surewest.net.
There are also many other ways to volunteer for ChI. The following Working Groups are in place for you to join: Academic Program Development contact Lauren@ chaplaincyinstitute.org. If you are interested in Fund Development, Volunteer Development, or Marketing, Communications & Outreach contact vicki @ chaplaincyinstitute.org Interested in helping with Admissions, contact Vanessa @ chaplaincyinstitute.org
We need you, we want you, we hope for you to show up. Will you?
