Spiritual Direction Formation Program

“...the art of Spiritual Direction lies in our uncovering the obvious in our lives and in realizing that everyday events are the means by which God tries to reach us.”
                              --Alan Jones

The Villa Spiritual Direction Formation Program introduces a person to the ministry of spiritual direction.  This three year program consists of various components including prayer, group instruction and sharing, assigned reading, reflection papers, practice and supervision.  The program provides a solid formative experience in spirituality and opportunities to increase listening skills.  The goal of the program is to help those who feel called to the ministry of spiritual direction to discern their gifts and acquire the necessary skills to be effective ministers of a contemplative-evocative approach to spiritual direction.

Cost for next Class which begins September 2021

$50 non-refundable registration fee along with completed Application and three Letters of Reference.

$1375 per year per person for Years One and Two.  This fee includes weekly sessions [approximately 27 per year], a weekend retreat  and instructional materials.  Course texts are separate costs. 

$600 for Year Three includes monthly meetings, one retreat weekend, and instructional materials.  Supervision fee is negotiated with Supervisor.

Pre-Acceptance Interview TBA
Orientation Day—August  28, 2021
First Class--September  2021
Classes—Wednesday evenings from   6:30–9:00 PM September to May  [excluding holidays]
Retreat weekend held each year is required

A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to those who satisfactorily complete the measurable objectives of the course outline.  This is not intended as a certification of the person as a spiritual director or validation of one's call to the spiritual direction ministry.  While an attempt is made to help the person discern that call, we believe that the final confirmation is known in the fruits of the ministry and is clarified through the Spirit of Truth alive in the director, the directee, and the community of faith.
 

Prerequisites

Applicants must:

• Be receiving monthly Spiritual Direction for at least one year.

• Possess emotional stability, spiritual maturity and reasonably good health.

• Be committed to ongoing spiritual growth, regular prayer, and active ministry.

• Have an adequate background in theology, scripture and spirituality and have made  a directed retreat prior to the beginning of classes.

• Be committed to ongoing spiritual growth, regular prayer, and active ministry. 

• Participate in all program classes, retreats, and activities.

• Next class will begin September 2021.