When I was eight years old, an event unfolded that would leave an indelible mark on my life. My parents took me and my three older sisters to a Russian circus in Pristina, Kosovo. The anticipation was palpable as we joined thousands of townspeople in a massive stadium, eager for the spectacle ahead.
A Night of Wonders
The performances were nothing short of mesmerizing. A formidable strongman astounded us by enduring feats that seemed beyond human capability. He withstood the weight of a cannon placed upon him and remained unscathed as nails were pressed against his body. His resilience and strength ignited a desire in me to emulate such fortitude.
Then came the act that captured my young heart—a stunning Russian performer was placed inside a cannon and, with a thunderous boom, was propelled through the air, landing gracefully just behind where we sat. Her radiant smile and poise left me enchanted, deepening my newfound aspiration to join the circus.
Another performer, a hypnotist, engaged the audience in ways that defied belief. Under his influence, volunteers exhibited behaviors that seemed to transcend their conscious control, leaving me both bewildered and fascinated.
Reflections on Life’s Circus
Reflecting on that day, I realize how the circus mirrors the unpredictability of life. Just as unexpected acts unfolded before our eyes, life presents us with unforeseen challenges and surprises. In the realm of spiritual care, we often encounter situations that test our strength and adaptability. We may feel the weight of responsibility, much like the strongman bearing the cannon, or find ourselves propelled into unfamiliar circumstances, akin to the human cannonball’s daring flight.
These experiences teach us the value of embracing the unexpected with grace and resilience. They remind us that, amidst life’s uncertainties, there is beauty in adaptability and strength in vulnerability. The circus, in all its wonder and unpredictability, serves as a poignant metaphor for the journey of life—a journey best navigated with an open heart and a courageous spirit.
CIRCUS & CLOWN: A Chaplain’s Formation Guide
In Chaplaincy, as in life, the journey is unpredictable, sacred, and often full of surprise. Like a well-crafted circus performance, spiritual care demands skill, intention, vulnerability, and wonder. These two acronyms—CIRCUS and CLOWN—offer a framework and spirit for Chaplain Professional Education (CPE) students who are learning to enter the sacred ring of human suffering and hope.
C.I.R.C.U.S.
The Formation Framework for Chaplains
C – Compassion
Offer heartfelt presence and empathetic care to those in distress.
I – Integrity
Uphold ethical standards and spiritual authenticity in every encounter.
R – Reflection
Engage in deep self-awareness and spiritual insight through continual reflection.
C – Connection
Foster meaningful relationships that nurture healing and trust across differences.
U – Understanding
Embrace diverse beliefs, cultures, and stories with humility and openness.
S – Spiritual Presence
Show up fully—mind, body, and spirit—to offer sacred support in life’s unpredictable moments.
C.L.O.W.N.
The Spirit Behind the Practice
C – Curiosity
Stay open to the unknown and listen deeply to the unspoken.
L – Love
Approach every person and situation with unconditional spiritual care.
O – Openness
Be vulnerable, present, and ready to enter sacred spaces without agenda.
W – Wonder
Recognize the mystery and beauty in every moment of human experience.
N – Nurture
Cultivate growth, healing, and resilience in others and within yourself.
Together, CIRCUS and CLOWN represent both the structure and the soul of Chaplaincy.
They remind us that while we are trained in skills and standards, we are also invited into the art of presence—full of risk, reverence, and sometimes even joy.
In Chaplaincy, we don’t always know what will happen. But we show up anyway—compassionate, curious, and committed.
