Like the rest of the world, ChIME is approaching the spring season of renewal with anticipation and curiosity about how the path will unfold. Even as the lily spears emerge from the ground, we wonder how we will emerge from our homes and how our lives will shift once again as the risk of Covid lessens – and also lingers.
Over the last few weeks I have fielded many inquiries from alumni and prospective students along the lines of “What is happening at ChIME?” The answer is fairly simple. A lot is happening at ChIME – and nothing new is happening at all.
We continue to educate and ordain interfaith leaders who lead with integrity, spiritual presence and prophetic voice. Our current 28 students are learning, teaching, growing and serving their communities in much the same way that 160 alumni did before them. Our extended beloved community is a rich web of history, experience, traditions, aspirations and inspiration. Our program is strong and chaplains are needed now more than ever. The work continues.
And, those of you who have been paying attention know that we have seen a number of staff transitions in the last 12 months. Nine months ago, Patricia Ellen stepped down as Abbess and Interim Executive Director Theo Kalikow joined our staff. Last month, Dean Katie Payson stepped down to pursue an opportunity with a hospice organization.
In the wake of Katie’s departure, Cathy Grigsby, Aram Mitchell and I have reshaped our collaboration to ensure a strong end to the academic year for 18 first year students and a meaning-full transition for the ten students who are preparing for Ordination or a third year. Learn more about the staff here.
Simultaneously, three alumni (two of whom are also former staff members!) have stepped forward to ensure specific aspects of recruitment, outreach and program support remain strong. Angie Arndt and Leslie Hyde are facilitating gatherings for Spiritual Companions while Colleen Myers is hosting Open Houses. All three are participating in the student interview process.
And applications are beginning to arrive! We anticipate welcoming one new in-person class and one new blended learning class in September 2021. Space in both is limited so if you or someone you know has been wondering if ChIME might be the right next step, please reach out for a conversation. I’d love to help you get to know ChIME better!
So “the same” continues in a new context – one that I am experiencing as a richness, a season of opportunity and possibility.
I am so grateful that ChIME’s transition blends our rich history with the possibilities and opportunities of this present moment. As we move into the summer, we will transition into a more consistent staffing structure. As we do, we will undoubtedly carry the lessons learned from Covid-19, from this last year’s experiment in online learning, and from this spring season of transition.
May we carry these lessons forward humbly, in love and in service.
May we recognize the abundance in our community and in our hearts.
May gratitude be a beacon.
May it be so.
