Elizabeth Morton
photo by Kevin McIntyre

For many of us, when it comes to the topic of spirituality, this is a time for an unconventional, integrative approach. Whether using a spiritual framework or not, we have a shared longing for an understanding of Self, for a connection with the All, and for an experience of aliveness. 

 

The individuals I’ve served over the years have had a wide range of beliefs and backgrounds. They include atheists, agnostics, seekers, social-justice oriented Christians/Catholics, students of the mystics, and survivors of spiritual abuse. They’ve described themselves as ‘spiritual but not religious,’ interfaith, inter-spiritual, pagan, eco-spiritual, closeted Christian, Unitarian, or “I don’t know what to call myself.” Some are artists. Some are queer. Some are elders. Some are addicts. Many are folks in the entertainment industry (of which I am a part). Some are public figures. Some are folks going through a seismic life change. Many are people who wrestle with their own contradictions. 

 

I call myself ‘secular’ because I have no religious affiliation. I call myself ‘chaplain’ because, for the past twenty years, it is the word that best encapsulates the unique role I’ve played in people’s lives. (Chaplaincy is best defined as ‘a ministry of presence’ so, truly, we can all be chaplains for one another.) I’ve come to understand that the way I listen and respond is helpful to people. So I'll keep doing it.

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Note: "all faiths welcome. all doubts, too" is borrowed from a mentor of mine, Elizabeth Cunningham.

 

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