Windows on the Divine

The theme for this year’s eCourse is Windows on the Divine. For centuries stained glass windows have graced simple chapels, parish churches, and medieval cathedrals worldwide. Each window, a unique composition of colour and shape, tells a story intended to support and enrich all who gaze and meditate upon its beauty. Similarly, our topics this year will comprise a unique set of processes and skills intended to support and enrich ministers as they accompany individuals during vocation discernment and the formative journey.

Our sessions will be held on ZOOM and will include input, conversation, and small group discussion. Participation in this series includes free access to SLIConnect: Resources for Healthy Life and Ministry (https://www.sliconnect.org/), a service of Saint Luke Institute. SLIConnect is a rich resource of 100+ video courses designed to promote healthy life and ministry for members of religious congregations, ordained clergy, and all those ministering in the Church.

Dates

Thursday, 8 June 2023	9:30 am – 12 pm AEST	Orientation Session: Basic Concepts of course (Particularly important for those who did not participate in Centred in God, Sent on Mission in 2022, otherwise optional, all are welcome)
Tuesday, 13 June 2023	9:30 am – 12 pm AEST	Session 1: The Use and Impact of the Internet and Social Media on the Formative Process
Tuesday, 18 July 2023	9:30 am – 12 pm AEST	Session 2: Psychological Assessments: Exploring Benefits and Limits
Tuesday, 8 August 2023	9:30 am – 12 pm AEST	Session 3: Development and Use of a “Growth Plan” during the Formative Journey
Tuesday, 12 September 2023	9:30 am – 12 pm AEST	Session 4: Post-Traumatic Growth: Yes, It’s Really a “Thing”!

Topics

The Use and Impact of the Internet and Social Media on the Formative Process

Most discerners and new members are thoroughly “digitalized”! This being so, including this topic throughout the formative journey is of critical importance. This session will examine the use and impact (beneficial and not!) of the internet and social media on the formative process, community life, prayer, and ministry.

Psychological Assessments: Exploring Benefits and Limits

Presently, many congregations worldwide require a psychological assessment of those desiring to enter religious life. This session will explore the benefits and limits of a psychological assessment for those beginning to discern their felt call to religious life.

Development and Use of a “Growth Plan” during the Formative Journey

A growth plan is a valuable tool for new members and ministers alike! This session will examine how to develop and use a growth plan; a modest, yet concrete tool during the initial years of the formative journey.

Post-Traumatic Growth: Yes, It’s Really a “Thing”!

The term post-traumatic stress is familiar to many. Less familiar is the term post-traumatic growth! This session will explore post-traumatic growth and identify its potential for assisting those in formation as they weather challenging experiences during (and after) their years in initial formation.