The Spirituality Program at the Center for Lifelong Learning is pleased to announce the new Certificate in Spiritual Direction program. The first residential session will begin in the fall of 2015. Applications for the first cohort will be accepted through April 30, 2015. The application may be accessed here.
This program of study is designed for individuals who discern a call to the practice of Spiritual Direction. Grounded in the tradition of Christian Spirituality, the curriculum includes four one week-long residencies on the Columbia Theological Seminary campus, individual reading and reflection, and supervised practice in the art of spiritual direction. Organized on the cohort model, the certificate is intended to be completed in two and a half years.
Spiritual Direction, often called spiritual companioning or spiritual friendship, is an intentional relationship between a person seeking spiritual guidance (the directee) and a trained individual (the spiritual director). Together with the Holy Spirit, they listen for and explore the workings of God in the directee’s life.
During the residencies students will receive practical training in the art of spiritual direction through supervised practice in facilitated small groups. At home students will meet monthly for one hour with a supervisor in their area to further their learning in the practice of spiritual direction.
Upon completion of the requirements of this program, a certificate of completion will be awarded. The certificate will attest to completion of this formation and training program to develop the gifts and sensibilities of spiritual directors and support their callings to this ministry.
Associate Director of Spirituality Debra Weir says of this new venture, “I sense this program will fully open the contemplative dimension of the Spirituality Program and support growing depth in the Columbia Seminary community at large.” She expressed eagerness to meet and start working with program participants and course leaders during the first program cycle.
Columbia Theological Seminary is committed to “educating imaginative, resilient leaders for God’s changing world.” The Spirituality Program at the Center for Lifelong Learning offers courses and events as a resource for church professionals and lay people. For a complete list of classes offered by the Center for Lifelong Learning, visit www.ctsnet.edu/lifelong-courses-and-events.