Spiritual Conversation

This will not be offered in 2008/2009.

For whom is the course intended?

There is increasing interest in the spiritual journey and how it relates to living faithfully in today's world.

This speaks of a need for people skilled in spiritual conversation. This training programme builds on the foundation course Growth in Prayer and Reflective Living, and encourages the participants to accompany others in their inner journey.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed Growth in Prayer and Reflective Living or a comparable course.

Consideration may be given to applicants with comparable experience which includes knowledge of different ways of praying and basic Ignatian discernment.

Applicants are themselves expected to have experience of regular spiritual direction and preferably an individually guided retreat as well.

Practice in Spiritual Conversation

Participants are expected to be accompanying others in their spiritual journey, so as to be able to apply course learning, and to reflect about this experience in small groups and with your tutor.

Ideally this means spiritual conversation with 2 people on a regular basis.

Course Content

Module 1 Introduction to Spiritual Conversation - Listening Skills
Module 2 Personal Prayer - Ways of Praying
Module 3 Discernment according to St Ignatius
Module 4 Spiritual Conversation

Method

The programme is experience-based and uses small group, role plays, case studies, personal reflection, input and discussion as methods of learning.

There is one written assignment for each module.

Attendance

Participants are expected to attend all sessions. If a session is missed, due to illness or unforeseen events, you are expected to cover the teaching and material missed by meeting with at least one other course participant.

Spiritual Direction

Participants are expected to be receiving regular spiritual direction. Your tutor may help you to find a spiritual director if necessary

Times

The training sessions are 7-9.30 on a weekday evening, with 2 weekends Sat/Sun 10.30-4.30.

Each participant meets with his/her tutor for a half-hour tutorial once a month between 6 and 7 pm before the training session starts.

For more information please contact us

Fees

£450. A registration fee of £30, deductible from the total cost, is payable when an applicant is accepted. The balance may be paid in instalments.

In the case of financial difficulty, applicants are encouraged to seek funding from other sources. Limited assistance may be available from the Epiphany Group Bursary Fund.