Being Present – Homelessness can be scary and lonely. Often one of the most helpful things that we can do is slow down, stop, and listen. The Marin Interfaith Street Chaplaincy bears witness and offers support to those who are living life on the street.
People in transition often have nobody to simply bear witness to their situation. By being present to the reality that suffering exists in their lives, the Chaplaincy allows people to slow down and reflect on their situations. Through this process of reflection, people are able to experience the full range of their emotions and perhaps find some emotional release. In addition to regular & recurring events, the Chaplaincy practices being present by:
Pastoral Counseling – The Chaplain offers the opportunity for anyone to participate in zero-barrier, low intensity, one-on-one pastoral counseling. This form of counseling focuses on listening and allowing the counselee to direct the course of his or her journey.
Prayer – The Chaplaincy continually and constantly holds the street community in an energy of prayer, and offers personal prayer when asked.
Spending time being visible at local service
providers – Being a visible presence at the St.
Vincent de Paul Free Dining Room and
Ritter Center allows the Chaplain to engage and get to know
the community of people being served in San Rafael. Being present
with people in their own locations provides a welcoming environment
for them to share their experience.
Visiting People in Hospital, in Jail,
and Who Are Housebound – The Chaplain visits those
from the street community who may otherwise feel isolated. The
Chaplain also maintains collegial relationships with the Chaplains
at the hospital and the deputies at the county jail.
Offering House Blessings – The Chaplaincy honors those who transition from the street into housing by performing a blessing of the space and the people living there. By honoring this transition through ritual, it may allow the situation to become more real for the person in transition.
Performing Marriages – The Chaplain is able to perform marriages for those who are not otherwise a part of a spiritual community.
