Journey Partners 2008-2009 -- Training in Spiritual Direction

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JOURNEY PARTNERS 2008-2009 is a two-year training in Spiritual Direction led by Rev. Wendy Miller of Eastern Mennonite Seminary. Course work is done in 6 retreats over the two years, with extensive reading in preparation for each gathering. The retreats are a combination of instruction and small group practice in spiritual disciplines and direction.

WHAT IS SPIRITUAL DIRECTION? Spiritual direction is the art of walking beside others as they listen for the voice of God in their lives. It employs both God-given gifts and carefully cultivated skills. You are invited to join a growing community of persons in Mississippi and beyond who devote themselves to this sacred practice.

Journey Partners provides a rich Christian context in which to take your own faith journey to a deeper level, to study classic and contemporary spiritual writings, and to develop your capacity to accompany others. Specific attention is also given to spiritual guidance within congregation.

This program, offered by The Center for Ministry, is open to laity and clergy of all denominations and faith traditions. The Center for Ministry is a collaborative venture of Millsaps College & the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church, fostering leadership for effective ministry in the church, the college, & the community. If you sense that God is calling you toward this ministry, we welcome your application. You will find full information inside.

RETREAT DATES: February 18-21, 2008 (St. Mary of the Pines, Chatawa, MS); July 21-24, 2008 (St. Mary of the Pines); October 27-30,2008 (Patterson Place, Clinton, MS); March 2-5,2009 (Gray Conference Center, Canton, MS); July 13-16, 2009 (location TBA); October 20-23, 2009 (location TBA)

RETREAT THEMES: Introduction to Spiritual Guidance
Spiritual Direction & the Soul’s Journey
Spiritual Direction & the Dark Night of the Soul
Spiritual Discernment & Contemplative Retreat
Spiritual Formation in the Congregation
Integration & Healing in Spiritual Direction

WHAT TO EXPECT: Time for personal reflection & solitude, including a silent mini-retreat (Retreat 4)
Experiencing daily worship & a variety of Christian spiritual practices (e.g., holy listening, praying the scriptures, & sabbath rest)
Participation in a learning community with peers
Group instruction & small group work at each retreat
Reading in preparation for each retreat
Written work reflecting your growth in offering direction (ministry logs, verbatim, & reflection papers)

Participants are expected to receive spiritual direction regularly throughout the program. Referrals are available through the Center for Ministry.

Forms Available for Download in Adobe PDF Format:
Ministry Practicum Log | Personal Progress Report | Home Based Practicum Worksheet #1 | Home Based Practicum Worksheet #2 | Checklist

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