The best path to become an effective Spiritual Director
Ruth Haley Barton often says, "The best thing you bring to leadership is your own transforming self." This is especially true for spiritual direction. You can not lead someone where you have never been. You cannot impart what you do not possess, and you cannot be present to spiritual dynamics that you have not experienced.
Your own spiritual formation is essential to being effective at helping other recognize God's presence in their ordinary life. This is why the Transforming Center is particularly excited about our partnership with Kairos University.
The Transforming Community experience allows pastors and spiritual leaders to attend to their own spiritual life by investing time and space needed to create a solid foundation in spiritual formation that is grounded in Scripture and in the richness and diversity of our Christian heritage.
Who should consider this training in spiritual direction?
This training is designed for spiritual leaders both inside and outside the church who desire to listen well and ask meaningful questions of others their spiritual journeys.
"When I began my Transforming Community experience many years ago, I did not anticipate that one day I would become a spiritual director. My community experience not only changed my life and ministry, but it also prepared me for eventually assuming the role of a director. These days I find great joy in helping others be open, receptive, aware of and responsive to the movement of the Spirit in their lives." – David Hughes
Earning a Certificate in Spiritual Direction
To earn Certificate in Spiritual Direction you must complete the 27 month Transforming Community® experience (9 in-person retreats outside of Chicago) plus an additional 10 month Listening People to Life training through Karios(virtual). The training can be done concurrently if desired.
All Transforming Community alumni who have received a Certificate of Spiritual Transformation can pursue a Certificate in Spiritual Direction. The training through Kairos University is completely virtual and affordable and lasts 10 months ($150 a month).
Those pursuing the Certificate in Spiritual Direction have the option of continuing with their course work to earn an MA, MDiv, or DMin degree with Kairos University. Learn more about all the academic opportunities available through the Transforming Center.
What makes this program distinctive?
This partnership between Transforming Center and Karios University provides unique training under the leadership of Ruth Haley Barton.
Ruth Haley Barton's contribution to Christian spirituality in the area of leadership development has helped to shape a new generation of Christian leaders who are committed to integrating spiritual practices and values into their work, and who are seeking to lead from a place of deep connection with God and others.
Do something before you do everything
The Transforming Community partnership with Kairos University is designed to equip and prepare you to become an effective spiritual director. If you have questions about spiritual direction training or earning an advanced degree use the form below.
"The alignment of these two formational programs will provide an integrated pathway for those called to practice Spiritual Direction as well as for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of God’s call on their life. The world desperately needs deep people who are steeped in God’s will for their lives – and I couldn’t be more excited for what will come of this collaboration!"
-Lin Van Hofwegen, Spiritual Director, Kairos Faculty Mentor, Chaplain
I want to take the next step! Send me information about Spiritual Direction Training within the Transforming Community experience.
Learn more about the Transforming Community.