Certificate in Spiritual Direction
The Certificate in Spiritual Direction is an intensive program of study and formation for those interested in practicing the art of spiritual direction. People come to Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary to deepen a Benedictine disposition for the ministry of listening. Some use what they have learned to meet one-on-one in spiritual direction sessions. Others take the skills they develop into retreat settings, group work, social justice contexts, and other forms of leadership in community.
Certificate Breakdown
- 1 Credit: Discernment in Prayer
- 12 Credits in Core Theology
- 6 Credits: Spirituality
- 3 Credits: Pastoral Ministry
- 3 Credits: Scripture
- 9 Credits of Practicum
- 3 Credits: Foundations of Spiritual Direction (Summer Intensive Course)
- 3 Credits: Practicum in Spiritual Direction (August through April)
- 3 Credits: Integration Seminar in Spiritual Direction (Summer Intensive Course)
This 22 credit certificate integrates the strengths of graduate theological study with the rigors of hands-on practice and supported by deeply experienced supervisors. The Benedictine monastic tradition remains integral to this process.
This program can be completed fully online, but it is encouraged to come to campus for the two summer intensive courses.
When I was looking for a program in Spiritual Direction, I was seeking formation that was at once deeply rooted in the Christian tradition while hospitable to diverse expressions of contemplative life. I found that in the Certificate in Spiritual Direction at Saint John’s.
Kyle Lambelet, Ph.D.
A Benedictine Approach To Spiritual Direction
Specific practices guide our Benedictine way of living here at Saint John’s, four of which are integrated into the spiritual direction courses for the certificate:
- Lectio on Life: Practicing traditional lectio divina (prayerful reading of scripture) prepares us to approach our lived experience just as prayerfully.
- Hospitality: Welcoming Christ in others encourages us to receive God in unexpected ways.
- Stability: Learning to attend more fully to the present moment helps ground us in a sense of God’s presence and leading.
- Conversatio Morum (a transforming way of life) Cultivating healthy habits and relationships reflects the Spirit’s invitation to the lifelong discipleship.
Degree + Certificate
Interested in earning the Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction and a master’s degree at the same time? Contact our admissions department at [email protected] for more information.
