What is the Epiphany Group?

The Epiphany Group is a group of men and women who have trained in and practise Ignatian Spirituality in Scotland. The majority are lay people; some are ordained ministers

The number of members vary a little from year to year - this year it is 54 members, belonging to different Christian traditions.

Members of the group make themselves available to accompany people on their spiritual journey, towards a deeper relationship with God. This kind of accompaniment is sometimes known as spiritual direction.

Why is it called the Epiphany Group?

It is named after the Feast of the Epiphany, which celebrates the visit of the Magi to worship the Christ child in Bethlehem. The word "epiphany" means the appearance of the Lord.

The Feast of the Epiphany falls on 6 January each year. On that day in 1999 the first invitation to talk about the formation of the group was sent out.

What does the Epiphany Group do?

The Epiphany Group supports the work of its members by arranging events and conferences on topics related to Ignatian spirituality and to the work of spiritual direction/accompaniment.

The Group also looks outward to helping and supporting individuals and groups who want to explore the spiritual aspects of life and faith in their own setting.

Where does it meet?

The Epiphany Group does not have a permanent centre but uses premises in various locations. The Group works in a dispersed way, holding events in Aberdeen, Perth, Dunblane and Edinburgh. Courses are offered in Aberdeen and Perth, when there is sufficient demand, and on a regular basis in Edinburgh.

Who can join the Epiphany Group?

All Epiphany Group members:

• have completed the full Ignatian Spiritual Exercises in a recognised manner
  
• have completed recognised training in spiritual direction
  
• practise as spiritual directors/companions working in a properly supervised manner.

If you meet these criteria you are welcome to get in touch and find out more about membership of the group - epiphanygroup.yahoo.co.uk .

What is Ignatian Spirituality?

Ignatian spirituality derives from the life and writing of Ignatius of Loyola, 1492-1556. Ignatius wrote a small book from his own prayer experience called the Spiritual Exercises which forms the basis of all that has been written, taught and shared about Ignatian spirituality and is still much used today.

The spirituality which flows from the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises is an active spirituality which connects individual reflection, prayer, and action in the world. Through experiencing God's love for us, and discerning how God draws us into deeper relationship, we are transformed.

Through a discerning way of life, we are encouraged to make choices in our lives which bring us into greater harmony with God and God's purpose for the world.

More about Ignatian spirituality can be found on the links listed.

Who are the courses for?

Most people begin with Growth in Prayer and Reflective Living , which is a good foundation for other courses.

It is for those who want a closer relationship with God; for those who want to make choices in their lives which are in tune with God's hopes and desires for the world; and for those who struggle with prayer and who would appreciate some help to explore ways of praying.

The Training in Spiritual Conversation builds on the first year course. It is for those who would like to learn more about spiritual conversation and who are drawn to accompany others in their spiritual journey.

People who do this course may work in the caring professions, may be active in their local church or faith community, may find that they have significant conversations with colleagues and friends; and would like to become more skilful in taking conversations deeper.

The Training in Spiritual Direction is for those who feel drawn to offer regular spiritual direction/accompaniment as a ministry. It is normally necessary to have completed the other two courses first and to have evidence of practice in spiritual conversation.

How often do the courses run?

Our courses usually run between October and May/June each year in Edinburgh. A minimum of 10 people is required for a course to run. Courses are offered in other places if there is sufficient demand.

Who are the tutors on the courses?

Most of the tutors on the courses are members of the Epiphany Group, so have completed training themselves and are working in a supervised capacity. From time to time we collaborate with colleagues in the Ignatian Spirituality Centre . We also work with Sisters of the Sacred Heart and with Jesuits.

Where are the courses held?

The courses are held at

St Margaret's Convent,
88 Strathearn Road,
Edinburgh,
EH9 2AQ

(next to The Gillis Centre)
Where is this?

Is there disabled access to course venues?

Our most frequently used venue, St Margaret's Convent in Edinburgh, has disabled access. We have a policy of booking venues with disabled access whenever possible. Please check with us if you are concerned or have special needs.