The Village Commons
Chaplaincy
Questions and Answers
Plain answers about who we are and how we can help
About Us
What is The Village Commons?
The Village Commons is a community chaplaincy in Louisville, Kentucky. We walk with people through hard times, help newcomers build a good life here, and train leaders to serve their own neighborhoods. The Village Commons is a work of The Village Reed.
Who leads The Village Commons?
I. Malik Saafir, our Founding Chaplain. He holds a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School and a master’s degree in Islamic Studies, and he has served communities through disaster and recovery work for many years.
Do I have to be religious to get help?
No. We serve people of any faith or no faith. We work with Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Buddhists, and with people who don’t follow a faith tradition.
Will you try to change my religion?
No. We support you within your own faith tradition, or with no faith at all. We never ask anyone to leave their tradition.
Who do you serve?
Adults 18 and older: individuals, families, communities, and organizations.
Welcome (for Immigrants and Refugees)
What kind of help do you offer people new to this country?
We offer a caring presence and practical support. We listen, help you organize your papers, explain things in plain English, and connect you with trusted organizations for the help you need.
Can you help with my visa, green card, or immigration case?
No. We are chaplains, not lawyers, and we do not give legal advice or fill out immigration forms. For legal questions, we will connect you with a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative, and we can walk with you through that referral.
Do you work with immigration authorities or the police?
No. We do not act for law enforcement or immigration authorities.
What are Community Partners?
Community Partners are trusted local places that know us and can connect you with our services. You can meet with us online or at a Community Partner site.
Heal (Chaplain Services)
What does a chaplain do?
A chaplain offers spiritual care. We sit with you through grief, illness, hard changes, and life after a disaster, and we can pray with you in your own tradition when you want that.
What services do you offer?
Spiritual care for individuals and families, support through grief and loss, blessings, memorials and vigils, and long-term support after disasters and trauma. See the Heal page for the full list.
How much does it cost?
Individual sessions are $75 an hour. Family sessions are $150 an hour. Other services are listed on the Heal page.
What if I can’t afford the full price?
We offer a limited number of Solidarity seats at half the standard rate. Ask about them when you book.
What language do you use?
All services, prayers, and rites are offered in English.
Can you help in an emergency?
We are not a crisis or emergency service. We support healing and recovery over time. In an emergency, call 911. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988. For food, housing, or other basic needs, call or text 211.
Learn (Classes)
What classes do you offer?
Small classes that help you settle in, heal, care for your family, and find steady work. See the Learn page for the full list.
Where do I start?
Everyone starts with Common Civic Values Training: four 30-minute sessions you take at your own pace, for $120. After that, we match you with the classes that fit you best.
How much do classes cost?
Each class is $120. Solidarity seats are half price.
Where are classes held?
Online, or in person at Community Partner sites, in small groups of up to 12 people.
Grow (Fellowship and Residency)
What is the Village Commons Fellowship?
A program for college students and professionals who want to grow as leaders and serve their own neighborhoods. Applications open on January 15, 2027.
What is a Village Commons Resident?
A Fellow who goes on to serve the zip code where they live, working from a host organization such as a congregation, nonprofit, or business.
Can my organization host a Resident?
Yes. Any congregation, nonprofit, or business can apply to host a Resident. Contact us to learn more.
Can ministers and other clergy serve as Village Commons chaplains?
Yes. We have a path for clergy who want to serve with us. Contact us to learn more.
Getting Started
How do I make an appointment?
All services are by appointment only. Use the Visit button at the top of any page to book.
What do I need to do before my first visit or class?
Everyone completes a short intake form and questionnaire and signs a waiver before services begin.
What if you’re full?
We keep our groups and schedule small so every person gets real attention. When we’re full, we’ll add you to the waitlist and contact you when a spot opens.
I referred a friend. Is there a reward?
Yes. Through Pass It On, you earn credit toward your own services when someone you refer books with us. You can also give your credit to our Community Care Fund to help someone else.
My business or nonprofit wants to become a Community Partner. How?
Contact us. Partnership is $25 a month for nonprofits and $50 a month for businesses, and referrals go both ways.
Still have a question?
We’re glad to help.