INTERNSHIP IN THE ART OF SPIRITUAL DIRECTION

Application Procedure

The application deadline for the July 2010 program has passed. If you would like to be considered for our wait list, please contact Colleen Shannon Soracco.

The July 2011 dates have not been finalized. Please check back in August 2010. The application for 2011 will be available after October 2010.

About the Program

This residential program, conducted in a contemplative atmosphere, is offered each July at Mercy Center Burlingame.

Watch this video of program participants reflecting on their experience.

This program is intended for:

• Individuals discerning in themselves a call to the ministry of spiritual direction.
• Individuals who want formation as a spiritual director rather than a course about spiritual direction.
• Individuals who wish to build upon and refine their skills, under competent supervision.
• Those who are experienced directors and those who are just beginning to explore this ministry.

Format of Internship

Weeks I and II
Introduction to the theory and practice of spiritual direction and engagement in the process of personal transformation.

Week III
Participants direct from one to three persons, who come to Mercy Center each day for the “Home Retreat.” In addition, personal supervision is an integral part of this week.

Week IV
Participants are invited to reflect on their experience of directing. You will be assisted individually in discerning: your call, your gifts, and personal challenges for this ministry.

Topics With Particular Focus

• Nature of spiritual direction—theory & practice
• Developing a contemplative attitude
• Noticing the presence of God in all events
• Discernment and spiritual direction
• Psychological dimensions of spiritual direction
• Cultural context; work with the marginalized
• Theory and practice of supervision
• Influence of gender on the direction process
• Directing different prayer styles and forms
• Process of graced human development
• Professional development of the director
• Guidelines for ethical conduct

Prayer
A contemplative attitude is fostered and encouraged by an hour of guided prayer each morning where participants experience and learn a variety of prayer forms.

Large And Small Groups
Program will include instructional lectures and practical experiences in a variety of large and small groups. These groups give the participants an experience of doing spiritual direction before the “Home Retreat” week.

Personal Transformation
Participation assumes a willingness to engage in one’s own inner work and to be open to self-disclosure. Effectiveness as a spiritual director is closely linked to one’s own growth. Therefore, each participant will have the opportunity to receive individual spiritual direction. Previous experience of receiving spiritual direction is a requirement for acceptance.

Community
A strong faith community—which develops out of these experiences—will worship together through Eucharist and prayer rituals. Participants also enjoy shared meals, socials, and group interaction as a faith community.

Diversity
Those enrolled in this program—begun in 1984—come from all over the United States, from many countries outside the U.S., and from a variety of faith traditions. This diverse community experience adds a unique richness to the program.

Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy and rooted in the Catholic tradition, the Center welcomes men and women of diverse faiths and cultural backgrounds. We provide a peaceful, prayerful, and holistic environment for individuals seeking to nourish their personal, spiritual, and professional lives.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Colleen Shannon Soracco
Tel: 650.340.7495
Fax: 650.340.1299
csoracco@mercywmw.org

Mercy Center
2300 Adeline Drive
Burlingame, CA 94010