Introduction to Module 2:
My Story/'Spiritual but not religious'.

Module 2 Part 1: My Story
 
We all have a story.
 
The events of our lives have shaped who we are now.  It is perhaps only when we stop at various points along the way to reflect that we can see the lines and patterns in our lives.  Even the movement of God often becomes clearer when we look back.
 
Understanding our own story allows us to interact with the story of others.  When we visit as Assistant Chaplains, we will hear many stories from patients and residents – the story of how they came to be in care/hospital, the story of their family, the story of their life. You will interpret their story through the lens of your own.


Module 2 Part 2: 'Spiritual, but not religious'.
 
The title of Chaplain or Assistant Chaplain can invoke a range of responses in the people you visit.
 
Thankfully, it will be mostly positive.  However, people often feel the need to tell you early on in the conversation where they stand on matters of church, faith and God.  One phrase you may hear is “Oh, I’m spiritual, but not religious.”
 
Spiritual but not religious.
 
It suggests that a person is aware of the movement of ‘something’ in their lives and they connect with that from time to time, but either naming it as God or being part of a structured group, such as a church is not for them.  Quite often though, people who align themselves this way are happy to engage in conversation.
 
There is plenty to read about the topic of Spiritual But Not Religious (SBNR).  A quick internet search will provide you with a raft of articles and sites on SBNR (or SBNA – Spiritual But Not Affiliated)

In this Module:
You will complete 2 tasks:
Task 1: A written document on My Story
Task 2: Research on the topic of Spiritual But Not Religious (SBNR)

Module Aim:

• To understand our own story more
• To become aware of different views of spirituality

Click here to open the Module 2 Task Sheet.  Complete the tasks and email to onlinetraining@ballaratchaplaincy.com.au