FORGOTTEN
TEMPLE OF THE
STREET CHAPLAINCY
We believe that spiritual care for the unhoused is vital.
We work to advocate for and support the placement of spiritual care providers, ministers and chaplains in all spaces where people who are unhoused exist in. (County jails, shelters, food services, community clinics, etc.)
If spiritual care is not included in our social services, then we are not providing legitimate, wrap-around care.
Why is professional spiritual care for the unhoused so important?
Increases mental health and emotional well-being.
Advocacy help to navigate a convoluted system.
Connects (not isolates) individual to the community.
Improves symptoms of PTSD, Early Childhood Trauma, mental illness and addiction.
Provides additional support and care so that other service providers are not overwhelmed.
Contributes to the holistic care of the individual, allowing for real change.
WHAT IS STREET CHAPLAINCY?
Street Chaplaincy, or Street Ministry, is a form of chaplaincy provided for folks living outside, as well as those in county jails, as there is often a correlation. A Street Chaplain will provide spiritual care for people who are unhoused. What does that look like? It looks like compassionate, respectful, boundaried, loving care. A Street Chaplain is dedicated to bearing witness to the suffering of the unhoused; they do not fix or change anything physical about their situation. They meet people where they are; they listen and love no matter what; and most importantly, they build healthy, lasting relationships that show people that there is someone who believes in them. Someone who sees them, and loves them.
The greatest harm to the unhoused population is not the lack of resources, convoluted systems of care or systemic oppression; the greatest harm is the abandonment, hatred and judgment we, the larger community, extend towards them. To leave behind those who are most vulnerable, most unique, most diverse, is to leave behind the heart and soul of the community. It is to leave behind opportunities for profound connection, creativity, and holy presence. A Street Chaplain walks into spaces of great human suffering and reminds those lost in its shadows that they are not only beautiful, but honored and important to the whole of the community.
Every Street Chaplain is different. This particular work calls for great authenticity and a true honing of one's unique skills and gifts. At Temple of the Forgotten, we do try to focus on cultivating multireligious, interfaith, interspiritual care. This means that our Street Chaplain are available to provide care of people of any, or no, faith. It also means that the minister is able to connect with anyone from a place of deep and profound love, the love that unifies all religions. Street Chaplaincy is a mystical practice—one that shapes and changes the lives of those who choose this is intense, impactful, challenging, holy work.
If you are interested in beginning your journey as a Street Chaplain, please inquire on our contact page.
