School of Spirituality

SCHOOL OF SPIRITUALITY 

 "Seek and you shall find..."   

A two-year adult education program that helps individuals from a variety of faith traditions and communities deepen their basic understanding of Christian history, scripture, spirituality, prayer and mission.

This program is unique in that it not only offers information and scholarship, but participants are also stimulated and enriched by the diverse faith experiences and insights of their classmates. Nearly every class includes opportunity for dialog and small group discussion.

Through weekly staff lectures, guest presentations and independent reading, participants explore their responses to God’s presence and action throughout creation and human history. Participants also write weekly reflection papers focusing on their own experiences and how they apply themes and principles of spirituality in their own lives.

2010 – 2011

“In the beginning was the Word…”  John 1

This year is devoted to the study of Sacred Scripture. Participants will consider the ways in which God communicates with God’s people, what can be learned about God and ourselves from this communication and how we may respond to God’s invitations. The fall semester looks at God revealing, “what is God?”; the second semester  focuses on God revealed in Jesus and, “what is Christ?” As the emphasis is on scripture as living, the class will experience a variety of prayer methods and ways to respond to the invitation of scripture.

2011 – 2012

“The glory of God is the human being, fully alive…”  St. Irenaeus of Lyon

This year looks at the growth and development of the spiritual person and the scriptural call to live “life to the full.” The first semester explores the integrated process of human development with particular attention to the key transitions in our spiritual journeys, such as midlife. In the second semester participants consider how our ever-deepening relationship with God ultimately calls us to action in our world and to proclaim God’s love and justice in how we live and relate to others at work, in our families and in the world at large. The course includes a session on the ministry of spiritual direction.

Both years also include Saturday retreat days of prayer and reflection at the Center.

Classes meet on Monday evenings from 7 to 9 pm beginning in September and ending in mid-April, with two prayer/integration evenings, one at the end of each semester.

Participants may enter during either year. A certificate is awarded upon completion of the program to participants who have met all of the requirements for class.

Fee:      2010 - 2011: $475 per semester/$950 for the year

            $50 non-refundable deposit applied to cost.

Registration and Interviewing: Ongoing for September initiation. Contact the Program Director, Joan Linley (203.245.0401, extension 460 or joan@mercybythesea.org)