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What the Chapel Means to Me
Some thoughts from Rebecca Kline
My relationship with the Swedenborg Chapel in Cambridge began when I arrived on Harvard’s campus almost three years ago to pursue my Masters in Theological Studies at the Harvard Divinity School. I was raised the daughter of a Swedenborgian minister and the church has been an important part of my life, so I was thrilled to be welcomed in by this congregation and to be offered a place of leadership within their group. My first year at Harvard I did my Field Education at the Swedenborg Chapel, working an average of about twelve hours a week on certain activities. My primary responsibilities were to run the Sunday School and the Thursday night reading groups, and to assist in Sunday morning Bible studies and the Church newsletter. These activities gave me an excellent opportunity to learn about my abilities as a lay leader. The experience also provided me with a religious community and personal spiritual support. My second year in Cambridge, though my Field Education was over, I continued leading the Sunday School and worked as a wedding coordinator.
However, the most important experience for me at the Swedenborg Chapel came in the fall of last year, when I was confirmed by Rev. Gladys Wheaton. The event was, for me, the climax of my personal spiritual discernment as far as coming to terms with my own religious identity. The support of the community at Swedenborg Chapel made this possible for me.
I can say with confidence that this is a strong and committed community of Christians. They stand united in their faith and in their vision for the New Church, and more specifically in their goal of assuring the continued presence of the Swedenborgian Church in Cambridge.
The church building itself stands in an ideal location for serving Harvard students such as myself, and for creating a space for Swedenborgian dialogue within the realm of the academy. Its history is invaluable, and its uses irreplaceable. The important impact it has made in my own life is just one example of its significance.
Rebecca Kline, March 2001
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