As I stand at the intersection of my vocation as an Anglican Priest and my calling as an Interfaith Minister, I am often asked what it means to hold both of these roles. How can one be deeply rooted in the Christian tradition while also embracing the vast diversity of human spirituality? The answer lies in the essence of what it means to be called—called not only to serve within the confines of one faith tradition but to serve all people, regardless of their religious background, with love, respect, and compassion.

The Call to Interfaith Ministry

The journey to becoming an Interfaith Minister is, at its core, a response to a profound and sacred calling. It is a calling that acknowledges the beauty and wisdom found in all spiritual paths, recognizing that the divine is not limited to one expression but is revealed in myriad ways throughout the tapestry of human experience. As an Interfaith Minister, I am called to honor this diversity, to see the divine spark in every person I encounter, and to walk alongside them on their spiritual journey—whatever form that journey may take.

This calling does not diminish my commitment to my Christian faith; rather, it deepens it. In the teachings of Jesus, I find the foundation for my interfaith work. Jesus consistently reached out to those on the margins, those who were different, those who were often misunderstood or rejected by society. His ministry was one of radical inclusion, compassion, and love for all people. It is this example that guides me as I seek to serve not only my fellow Christians but also those from all walks of life and all spiritual traditions.

Being a Servant of All People

To be a servant of all people is to embrace a ministry that is both expansive and inclusive. It is a ministry that recognizes the common humanity we all share and the unique spiritual expressions that arise from our different cultural and religious contexts. As an Interfaith Minister, I am called to listen deeply, to approach every person and every faith with humility and openness, and to create spaces where genuine dialogue and mutual understanding can flourish.

This does not mean setting aside my own beliefs or traditions. Instead, it means engaging with others from a place of deep respect and curiosity, always seeking to learn and grow. In fact, one of the most profound gifts of interfaith ministry is the deepening of wisdom that comes from engaging with other religious traditions. Each faith offers unique insights and perspectives on the divine, and by opening ourselves to these teachings, we can experience a richer, more expansive understanding of God’s work in the world. This knowledge does not dilute our own beliefs but rather enhances them, allowing us to see the myriad ways in which God’s love and wisdom manifest across cultures and spiritual practices.

Being a servant of all people also involves recognizing the sacredness of service itself. Whether offering a prayer, providing spiritual guidance, or simply being present in times of need, the work of an Interfaith Minister is rooted in the understanding that every act of service is an opportunity to embody the love and compassion of the divine. This service extends beyond the walls of the church or any religious institution—it reaches into the heart of the community, into the lives of those who are hurting, seeking, or simply in need of a listening ear.

The Joy and Challenge of Interfaith Ministry

The joy of interfaith ministry lies in the rich tapestry of relationships it fosters. It is a joy that comes from witnessing the ways in which different faiths can illuminate and enrich one another, from being a part of a community that celebrates diversity while seeking common ground. It is the joy of knowing that, in a world often divided by differences, we can be a force for unity and peace.

But this ministry also comes with its challenges. It requires navigating complex theological questions, overcoming prejudice and misunderstanding, and continually working to build bridges where walls once stood. It demands a deep commitment to personal and spiritual growth, as well as the courage to stand up for the dignity and worth of all people, even in the face of opposition.

Yet, despite these challenges, the call to be an Interfaith Minister is one of the greatest blessings of my life. It is a call to love more deeply, to serve more fully, and to live out the truth that every person, regardless of their faith or background, is a beloved child of God.

Conclusion

In answering the call to be an Interfaith Minister, I am reminded daily of the words of Jesus: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). To be a servant of all people is to live out this teaching in every encounter, every conversation, and every act of service.

It is to recognize that the divine love we experience in our own lives is not ours to keep but is meant to be shared with all those we meet. It is to walk humbly with God, knowing that in serving others, we are serving the divine presence within them.

As I continue on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this unique and sacred way. And I invite others to join me in this journey, to open their hearts to the richness of interfaith dialogue, and to embrace the call to be a servant of all people, wherever that may lead.

May it be so. Amen.