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Generous listening is a core practice for intentionally guiding persons in their spiritual growth and is at the center of training for spiritual directors. This course explores the historical, theological, and psychological premises of deep listening for soul companionship and introduces students to foundational practices. Students will reflect on the meaning and definitions of hosting spiritual conversations, integrating their personal experience and course teachings. Due to the accelerated nature of this cohort-based, four-course certification series, students are required to enter with a substantial spiritual formation foundation. This is determined in the admissions process. Students are required to meet with a certified spiritual director at their own expense. Additional course fees may be required.

This course invites students to implement foundational principles in a practical way by establishing director and directee relationships for training purposes. Further exploration of spiritual direction core principles are examined and implemented using evocative and contemplative methods. Group spiritual direction and peer supervision are also introduced and practiced in class. Students are required to meet with a certified spiritual director and supervisor at their own expense. Prerequisite: SDIR 500

Students will continue to develop spiritual direction competencies within the director and directee relationship. Issues related to the directors’ and directees’ interiority are given significant attention through thematic studies and personal reflection. Group spiritual direction skills will build upon peer listening and contemplative feedback. Students are required to meet with a certified spiritual director and supervisor at their own expense. Prerequisite: SDIR 510

The praxis course involves continuing spiritual direction with established directees. Focus will also be given to developing vocational and professional structures. Personal and communal reflection will synthesize contextual considerations for ongoing application. Final certification for spiritual direction occurs at the end of four semesters with a summative assessment process facilitated by the course instructor and upon recommendation of the student’s supervisor. Students are required to meet with a certified spiritual director and supervisor at their own expense. Prerequisite: SDIR 520