SDC 100: Life in Christ and Spiritual Direction [Summer 26]

Was: $850
For A Limited Time: $780

This instructor-led course invites adult learners and ministry leaders to explore God’s plan for the human person and His desire that all may “have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Rooted in the Catholic Christian tradition, it presents a rich and compelling vision of human flourishing—one that speaks directly to the realities of personal life and ministry.

Students will examine the dignity of the human person as free, responsible, and deeply relational, created for communion with God and others. The course integrates insights into moral growth, spiritual development, and the pursuit of authentic well-being, while honestly engaging the reality of sin and its impact on the human journey. This framework offers both personal formation and practical wisdom for those serving others.

Building on this foundation, the course introduces the ministry of spiritual direction. Participants will explore its history, purpose, and practice, and gain a deeper understanding of the identity and role of the spiritual director.

This course is done with a cohort over an 8 week term. It requires 6-9 hours per week of academically rigorous work similar to a graduate level course.

The course work is primarily done on one’s own schedule with weekly deadlines. However, there are weekly opportunities to connect with the instructor and cohort in a discussion that lasts 90 minutes. Students can also watch a recording of these discussions as another way to participate in them.

Books to Buy: Students have access to most needed materials for each course electronically but we do ask students to obtain the following:

1. Acklin, T. & Hicks, B. (2017). Spiritual direction: A guide for sharing the Father’s love. Steubenville, OH: Emmaus Road Publishing. 
2. Barry, W. & Connolly, W. (2009). The practice of spiritual direction. HarperCollins. 
3. Martin, R. (2006). The fulfillment of all desire. Emmaus Road Publishing.
4. Dubay, T., SM. (1993). Seeking spiritual direction: How to grow the divine life within. Ann Arbor: Servant Publications. 
   1. The 1994 edition is equally acceptable.
   2. One option to read the book online (though you may find others) can be found here: https://archive.org/details/seekingspiritual0000duba  

*Registration fees for this course are non-refundable once payment is submitted.