Programs
The heart of our organization.
Our three programmatic themes – Learning Journeys, Movement Chaplaincy, and Spiritual Innovation- are designed to meet participants at their unique stage of growth and learning. In offering a combination of in-person and online gatherings for our cohort members, highlighting emerging and established field experts, and incorporating practices of rest, our programming seeks to provide an environment for our network participants to thrive.
Learning Journeys is a cohort-based experience that is made up of a vibrant tapestry of spiritual leaders from specific regions throughout the country, united in a shared purpose. Spanning one to two years, these transformative journeys are much more than just a course or retreat gathering– they are deep reflections into the pressing issues affecting their local communities. These spiritual visionaries do not just identify problems, they breathe life into new narratives that have the power to reshape regional democracy and create new spiritual pathways. Crafted with meticulous attention to the soul and intellect, Learning Journeys are the beacon for those seeking a lifelong pilgrimage in spiritual leadership and movement work. These cohort-based experiences foster connections that nurture and uplift. Whether tackling a local community issue of weaving solutions for broader societal injustice, Learning Journeys serve as an important catalyst in any spiritual leader’s vocational path and provides space for these learners to partner in the wider work of Faith Matters Network.
Learning Journeys is a cohort-based experience that is made up of a vibrant tapestry of spiritual leaders from specific regions throughout the country, united in a shared purpose. Spanning one to two years, these transformative journeys are much more than just a course or retreat gathering– they are deep reflections into the pressing issues affecting their local communities. These spiritual visionaries do not just identify problems, they breathe life into new narratives that have the power to reshape regional democracy and create new spiritual pathways. Crafted with meticulous attention to the soul and intellect, Learning Journeys are the beacon for those seeking a lifelong pilgrimage in spiritual leadership and movement work. These cohort-based experiences foster connections that nurture and uplift. Whether tackling a local community issue of weaving solutions for broader societal injustice, Learning Journeys serve as an important catalyst in any spiritual leader’s vocational path and provides space for these learners to partner in the wider work of Faith Matters Network.
Read more on our upcoming learning journey
Movement Chaplaincy fuses ancient wisdom with modern healing justice practices through its continued education offerings for those engaged in the evolving field of chaplaincy. Our flagship is a 12-week Movement Chaplaincy Training that offers a holistic perspective on spiritual care in movement work– tailored for brave souls, activists, and community leaders. Movement Chaplaincy breaks free from the traditional chaplaincy confines and provides spiritual guidance and ignites passions for those leading change on the frontlines of justice work. The ethos embodied is expansive and boundless, advocating for profound care, sustainability, and accompaniment through one’s sacred vocation. Movement Chaplaincy also offers seasonal webinars, online courses, and soulful monthly gatherings to those discerning their chaplaincy path– all while creating a cross-regional web of connections among movement workers and leaders. For participants involved in academic settings, our programs seamlessly dovetails with approved institutions, offering academic credit and CPE upon request.
Spiritual Innovation is a new groundbreaking initiative crafted to amplify the luminous voices of spiritual leaders who deserve investment in their leadership, focusing on Black women and the broader BIPOC community. At Faith Matters Network, we are not just looking for seasoned theologians and faith leaders– we are also seeking passionate trailblazers and innovators regardless of formal institutional backgrounds. We are excited to accompany these emerging leaders and spirited entrepreneurs who are eager to wield their spirituality and sustainable solutions as a beacon against systemic issues. As a Womanist-led organization, our mission is to elevate the resounding chorus of Black women and gender-expansive people who have not only lived, but sculpted history with their innovative wisdom. This is not just about recognition, it is about revolution. Through financial investment, mentorship, and coaching– Faith Matters Network is paving a way for these spiritual leaders who are often overlooked by conventional institutions and equipping them with the resources and backing they deserve.
Movement Chaplaincy fuses ancient wisdom with modern healing justice practices through its continued education offerings for those engaged in the evolving field of chaplaincy. Our flagship is a 12-week Movement Chaplaincy Training that offers a holistic perspective on spiritual care in movement work– tailored for brave souls, activists, and community leaders. Movement Chaplaincy breaks free from the traditional chaplaincy confines and provides spiritual guidance and ignites passions for those leading change on the frontlines of justice work. The ethos embodied is expansive and boundless, advocating for profound care, sustainability, and accompaniment through one’s sacred vocation. Movement Chaplaincy also offers seasonal webinars, online courses, and soulful monthly gatherings to those discerning their chaplaincy path– all while creating a cross-regional web of connections among movement workers and leaders. For participants involved in academic settings, our programs seamlessly dovetails with approved institutions, offering academic credit and CPE upon request.
Spiritual Innovation is a new groundbreaking initiative crafted to amplify the luminous voices of spiritual leaders who deserve investment in their leadership, focusing on Black women and the broader BIPOC community. At Faith Matters Network, we are not just looking for seasoned theologians and faith leaders– we are also seeking passionate trailblazers and innovators regardless of formal institutional backgrounds. We are excited to accompany these emerging leaders and spirited entrepreneurs who are eager to wield their spirituality and sustainable solutions as a beacon against systemic issues. As a Womanist-led organization, our mission is to elevate the resounding chorus of Black women and gender-expansive people who have not only lived, but sculpted history with their innovative wisdom. This is not just about recognition, it is about revolution. Through financial investment, mentorship, and coaching– Faith Matters Network is paving a way for these spiritual leaders who are often overlooked by conventional institutions and equipping them with the resources and backing they deserve.
Doing the work our souls must have
Healing today’s social justice leaders
Faith Matters Network was founded by Rev. Jen Bailey with support from the Nathan Cummings Foundation
First Movement Chaplaincy Gathering in Nashville, TN
#100Days100Dinners initiative launches to bridge political divides after 2016 election, evolving into The People’s Supper
Rooted in Resilience report on emerging healing practices among spiritually grounded leaders nationwide is released
Disciples of Welcome, a learning journey for United Methodist clergy, launches in North Carolina in partnership with The Duke Endowment.
Movement Chaplaincy pilot training launched; Rev. Jen Bailey featured in On Being interview
Program initiatives in response to Covid-19 launch, including spiritual counseling with community care chaplains and a virtual motivational series
Faith Matters Network receives $1M grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to establish new programming through their Thriving Congregations Initiative.
Arkansas-based learning journey forms under the name Micah Fellows Program to equip faith leaders to end poverty and advocate for economic justice with support from the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation
Pathways to Repair project begins in collaboration with The Dinner Party and Center for Rural Strategies
Launch of FMN’s signature series, Womanist Wisdom, a virtual program highlighting a cross section of the field of womanism
Rooted in Resilience Fellowship, an international cohort of spiritual care practitioners, healers, and medical professionals, starts up as a community of practice
Spiritual Innovation emerges as a strategic area of programming activity