November 15 - 21, 2010 First session in a two-year program. Other sessions: March 7-13, 2011; October 10-16, 2011; and March 5-11, 2012.
Stillpoint at Ghost Ranch brings the highly regarded Art of Spiritual Direction Formation and Training Program in southern California to the exhilarating landscapes of the historic Ghost Ranch in northern New Mexico. Rooted in the deep contemplative Christian tradition, this program honors the sacred listening practices of other traditions, as well. Participants who apply and are accepted in the program will travel to Ghost Ranch for four, one-week residential intensives (two separate weeks each year). An experienced staff of distinguished spiritual directors facilitate the sessions using presentations, role-plays, discussions, demonstrations, spiritual practices, contemplative exercises and prayer. The Stillpoint program is noted for engagement and is a practicum. The art of spiritual direction is practiced through hours of group and staff participation so graduates obtain real life, hands-on experience in engaging their gift of being spiritually present to others. Participants find that their lives change as their gifts of deep listening and presence emerge. The Commitment - Prerequisite: THE SPIRITUAL JOURNEY The program consists of one intensive week August 20-27, 2010. At Ghost Ranch, Stillpoint will conduct a special discernment process called The Spiritual Journey. Applicants who aspire to the fall Art of Spiritual Direction Formation and Training Program must complete this pre-requisite for application, followed by application for the full formation program that begins November 15 - 21, 2010.
Participants will receive a Welcome Letter with complete instructions on how to prepare for the first week of class in November. A complete list of readings, consisting of books and articles, will be included. Participants will be assigned a mentor upon arrival. Mentors (and other staff) companion each participant throughout the program. Participants will receive field assignments to complete between sessions and there will be rich opportunity for exchanges between staff and participants through an online forum and via conference calls throughout the duration of the program. Tuition includes all readings (except books), instruction, a mentor, supervision, and access to faculty throughout the program. Participants receive a Certificate of Completion in The Stillpoint Art of Spiritual Direction Formation and Training Program at the end of the final residency and upon satisfactory completion of all assignments.
Faculty Three highly experienced spiritual directors/companions will facilitate the class: Vickie Garrison, Ann Gessert, and Christopher McCauley.
Vickie Garrison Vickie Garrison is a spiritual director and facilitator of Stillpoint’s Art of Spiritual Direction Formation and Training Program in southern California. She is a retired Deaf Education Teacher and private consultant for special needs children and families. Vickie is a contemplative with a strong interest in meditation and healing. Midwifery of the spirit is her passion. Anne Gessert Anne Gessert is a spiritual director and faculty member at StillPoint where she facilitates Spiritual Exploration classes and is on the staff of the Art of Spiritual Direction Formation and Training Program in southern California. Anne is a licensed psychotherapist, specializing in working with people with life-threatening illnesses and bereavement issues. For 15 years she has worked for The Wellness Community where she facilitates support groups, both face-to-face and online for cancer patients and their families. Christopher McCauley Christopher is the Executive Director, Stillpoint: The Center for Christian Spirituality, in Pasadena, California. He is also a spiritual director, worships in the Episcopal Church, and leads interfaith pilgrimages. Christopher is a member of the Coordinating Council of Spiritual Directors International, the first global learning network of spiritual directors in history.
Location
Casa del Sol at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico The classic adobe home offers a spacious common room with fireplace, kitchen and simple living. Travel to Ghost Ranch Abiquiu
Program Cost
November 15 - 21, 2010 Course # G10CDS1131 Fees: $1,622 + $525* room & board
March 7-13, 2011 / Fees: $1,622 + room & board
October 10-16, 2011 / Fees: $1,622 + room & board
March 5-11, 2012 / Fees: $1,622 + room & board
Room & Board
*$87.50 per bed, per night, includes breakfast, lunch and dinner
Registration
Applications are due September 15, 2010 (or on a space available basis after that date).
Applicants must complete a written Application, submit two personal/spiritual references, and be available for a telephone interview with Stillpoint staff.
Please contact the Registrar at Ghost Ranch Abiquiu with any questions or concerns regarding program registration and room & board. Phone: 877-804-4678, ext. 152 or 155 E-mail: registrar@ghostranch.org
Please contact Stillpoint with any questions or concerns regarding discernment, program content or the application process. Phone: 323-340-8036 E-mail: info@stillpointca.org
More Information
To learn more about Stillpoint at Ghost Ranch, contact Christoper McCauley, Stillpoint: The Center for Christian Spirituality at 323-340-8036. Christopher will be happy to discuss the program with you personally. Or e-mail: info@stillpointca.org
To learn more about Stillpoint: The Center for Christian Spirituality, visit www.stillpointca.org
