Confident, Grounded Communication
Early career chaplains often enter their roles and workplaces with an extensive set of skills in spiritual care, counseling, and active listening, but they quickly find themselves surprised and under-equipped for the high-impact public speaking invitations coming their way. This cohort provides the specialized public speaking training and actionable preparation needed to turn that anxiety into confident sacred leadership and institutional influence within the context of a supportive peer community.
The 6-week engagement includes 6 live group sessions (60 minutes each) to build core skills, and 1 dedicated 50-minute individualized coaching session (which can be scheduled anytime during or after the program) per participant for rehearsal and feedback.
“Early Career” can be defined broadly: Whether you’re in seminary, CPE, the early years of a new position, or simply find yourself drawn to this cohort, you are welcome!
This workshop is led by Rev. Julie Avis Rogers, MDiv, public speaking coach, ordained minister (United Church of Christ), and former university chaplain.
All sessions will take place from 1 to 2 PM Eastern:
Introduction to Public Speaking for Chaplains: Four Stages and Effective Delivery
Public speaking is more than just words; it’s a physical and spiritual presence. We’ll kick off the summer series by exploring the “4 Stages of the Public Speaking Journey” and how to effectively deliver your message. Learn how to move from frantic preparation to a delivery that holds the room with effective presence.
October 1, 2026
The Grounded Speaker: Managing Nerves The Day of the Event
Even the most seasoned chaplains can feel the nervousness and stress of public speaking! This session focuses on the “Threshold Time”—the critical minutes before you speak—and somatic “Emergency Resets” for when nerves strike mid-presentation. Together we’ll build your individualized menu of grounding strategies to ensure you show up with confidence, no matter what unexpected curveballs are thrown your way!
October 8, 2026
Expansive Language: Speaking with Authenticity and Inclusion for Audiences across Many Spiritual Backgrounds
How do we speak authentically from our own voice while remaining radically inclusive of listeners of many spiritual backgrounds? We explore the art of expansive language, learning to bridge faith identities and spiritual backgrounds without losing our own authentic voice.
October 15, 2026
Designing Workshops and Presentations & Mastering the Q&A
When giving a presentation or workshop, move from “reading a powerpoint” to “designing an alternative world.” This session covers how to prepare and lead presentations rooted in your unique chaplaincy strengths. We’ll also do a deep dive into “Spontaneous Communication”—giving you a framework to navigate Q&As and unexpected questions with clarity.
October 22, 2026
Leading Sacred Moments: The Art of Invocations, Blessings, & Extemporaneous Prayer
Chaplains are often asked to lead a moment of grounding, blessing, invocation to larger events in their institutions. Learn to craft these “Sacred Bookends” (invocations and benedictions) and practice the skill of extemporaneous prayer. Gain the confidence to lead sacred moments that feel intentional, inclusive, and grounded.
October 29, 2026
Designing and Leading Ceremonies: Officiating Memorials, Vigils, & Rituals
Our final session explores the mechanics of officiating memorials, weddings, and vigils. Learn how to design a ritual arc that holds grief and celebration with equal grace, leaving participants feeling seen and held.
November 5, 2026