The Chaplaincy Institute, An Interfaith Seminary & Community - Berkeley, CA

Susan Overland

As an ordained minister, I had many options for pursuing a chaplaincy program, and I am deeply grateful that I chose the Chaplaincy Institute. The variety of classes, the interfaith perspective, and the stellar faculty have made my experience, thus far, extraordinary. There is a depth to every class that has managed to capture my interest and expand my skillset and knowledge base. The added bonus is getting to know other students who are on a similar path. We meet every other week with our cohort and there is so much love and support, as well as deep dialogue and sharing. Everyone is authentic, loving, and supportive. Lastly, I want to add that the availability of the staff is phenomenal; everyone from the Dean, my academic advisor, the Community Minister, and the Administrative Specialist all work together to create an atmosphere that is conducive to our learning experience and success.

Justin Sarno

As I'm just returning from a weeklong training with this program along the beautiful Santa Cruz coastline, I have a strong desire to convey to you the reader that the Chaplaincy Institute (ChI) is something very special. It is rare to find a trifecta of curriculum, faculty/staff, and community that constellate together to create such a rewarding program. I am challenged by the courses, supported in my learning, and connected with an ever-deepening network of fellow committed practitioners.

With my attendance starting in 2021, I have taken 7 separate courses along with my recent training retreat, enrolled in both their Ordained Chaplaincy program and their Spiritual Direction program. I've been supported from the start to create a course schedule & pacing that works for my life (navigating full-time work, parenthood, etc.). Though the school is relatively small, it is filled with staff that are committed to making my education successful.

If you're at all interested, it is absolutely worth going to one of their open houses, and/or scheduling a call with their dean. ChI is a special place that attracts a special kind of person, and maybe this is kind of person is you!

Kari Kopnick

A wonderful seminary and community for people committed to transforming the world.

Karla Woods

Harry Pottash

Longyun Shi

Melvin Singh