Today, we reflect upon our duty as spiritual leaders and how we can set an example, not only for those within our own traditions but also for those who walk the unique and often misunderstood path of Jediism. I was asked in a PM a few weeks ago, why is clergy special. My answer was, it isn’t. It is a role, a path we decided to go on. No different than a guard, a doctor, or any other path we choose in life. We are people, with all our virtues and downfalls. There is learning to be had there.
So lets dive into this. A little context I think is needed.
Jediism, is a belief system and philosophy that advocates for peace, justice, humility, discipline, and compassion. Our Doctrine can change, our tenets can evolve. While Jediism is not a traditional religion in the way we may understand in our communities, it carries profound values that can resonate with our own practices. As clergy, we are tasked with being role models for all people, regardless of their faith, and it is incumbent upon us to embody the very ideals we preach. As if we do not, then we are missing one of the most important aspects of the journey. Today, we will explore the intersection of our roles and the principles of Jediism, and how we can set a noble example for all who seek guidance.
To understand how we, as clergy, can set an example for those who practice Jediism, we must first explore the nature of our calling. The term clergy comes from the Latin word clerus, meaning "a group of individuals chosen for a sacred purpose." Whether we are priests, pastors, rabbis, imams, monks, or ministers, our role is to serve as spiritual guides. We are entrusted with the responsibility of leading others on a path of moral growth, deeper spirituality, and connection to the Force. This is not to say we are paragons of virtue, but that if we are going to say, “this is Jediism” then we should be putting our best foot forward. This role involves demonstrating a life of integrity and service. We are to be models of virtue, practicing what we preach and providing an example. In essence, our actions must speak louder than our words. Our lives must reflect the teachings we share. If we are to lead others to greater understanding, peace, and spiritual growth, we must first embody those principles ourselves.
The importance of personal discipline and striving for balance is central. Jediism emphasizes virtues such as mindfulness, self-control, and respect for all life. As clergy, we are not only tasked with guiding our own congregations but also with acknowledging and respecting the wisdom found in other belief systems. We are often a melting pot, as our membership includes people from all walks of life and traditions. To be able to understand and minister them, it is a lifetime of learning. Some members stick to one way, that is fine, but Clergy is not meant for just one way, it is meant to be accessible to all.
Recognizing that wisdom comes not only from external sources but from within. They are humble and willing to learn from all experiences and perspectives. Similarly, clergy must remain humble in our teachings and recognize that wisdom can be found in many places, including the practices of other spiritual paths. By setting an example of open-mindedness, tolerance, and a commitment to learning, we can guide others toward a deeper understanding of both their own beliefs and the greater truths that unite us all.
One of the core principles of Jediism is service to others. Jedi are taught to be selfless in their actions and to put the needs of others before their own desires. This is a principle shared in most religious traditions, including our own. As clergy, we are called to serve our communities, offering spiritual guidance, emotional support, and physical help in times of need. But service must not be seen as an obligation or a duty; it must come from a place of humility and love.
So what does this all lead up to?
Clergy are touchstones.
Little campfires along the path of life that people will find or seek out or straight up avoid. Our purpose is to be available, open and able to share our view. So it can be, in turn, digested and thought about. Then learned from or discarded. Mentorship is not a new thing, but I have found that Clergy has a wide breadth of mindset. Some give only questions, some give facts as they see it, some just spooky and mysterious, there are as many different views as there are stars in the sky. We have many training Masters, an IP and others that are available. However, we serve an important purpose in setting example; to other clergy, our membership and the world. Contrast.
Often people set into ONE way of doing things. Streamlining, strict adherence, these are things that not everyone agrees on. How I act as a Clergy will be judged, and I have/will question my beliefs as well as how I practice. For that, I go to others that practice, other clergy sometimes of other religions. It is hard to know who to trust with such vulnerability. Such closely held ideas and wisdom is often hard to come by. Clergy are there for this. What I learn from talking with Serenity, or Carlos, or Ros, or any of the others doesn’t just give me reassurance, but gives me an alternative path to consider. Some wisdom I didn’t know about, and often, some laughs.
May the Force be with us all, and may we always strive to be worthy of the calling we have received.
