This week-long intensive course will provide a deeper foundation for understanding and engaging in the practice of spiritual direction in the Christian tradition. It is intended to enhance the students’ understanding of the spiritual life, with attention given to developing the basic skills required for this ministry.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
This final week of the spiritual direction training program will focus on case studies, which the students will bring from their own, initial practice of spiritual direction. Small groups will provide peer support and supervision. Lectures on specific topics and spiritual direction with those alienated from the Church will also be included in the week.
REQUIREMENT:
The previous two week-long introductory intensives (October, 2022 & April, 2023) or permission of the instructor.
Please read Return of the Prodigal Son and Life of the Beloved by Henri Nouwen.
FORMAT:
The class will include some lecture and some interactive exercises. These exercises will be used for practicing some of the skills needed for spiritual direction, such as active listening.
A certificate of completion will be awarded upon completion of the entire program, which includes these three week-long sessions and the required course work.
Lodging Room check-in begins at 4pm and the program will begin after dinner at 7pm.
Note: A new group (series of three week-long intensives over the course of a year) for the Introduction to the Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute program will begin October 8-13. If you are interested in learning more, please scroll to that listing date under the ‘Attend a Retreat’ section of the website.
Guided by Kathy Brown and Sr. Bernie Claps, CBS.
Kathleen Hope Brown, D.Min., teaches spiritual direction and other courses in spirituality at the Virginia Theological Union. Her doctorate in Adult Spiritual Formation is from Catholic University.
Sister Bernadette Claps, a Sister of Bon Secours, provides spiritual direction and spiritual companionship at the Retreat and Conference Center at Bon Secours. She holds graduate certificates in Spiritual Direction, Spirituality and Aging. She has done graduate studies in theology and received a Master of Social Work from New York University.