Distance Learning Internship Program

This certificate program conveniently packages the content of our Spiritual Direction Training program for distance learners. This independent, flexible, self-paced learning is complemented by individual personal telephone and email support from the Program Director and local peer supervision.

The Distance Learning Internship is 100% residential-free. This means you need not attend any Spirations-sponsored meetings, retreats or intensives. All learning takes place at your convenience, in your own home and community. Applications are accepted throughout the year, and once accepted, you and the Program Director will outline your training schedule.

The Program consists of 12 modules that may be completed in 18 to 36 months (one-and-a-half to three years). Trish Bruxvoort Colligan serves as the primary mentor for this program.

Is distance learning for me?

While it's not for everyone, Spirations' distance certification option may be just your cup of tea. Consider this learning style if:

• You have regular access to a computer and an internet connection;
• You're seeking a highly individually-focused learning experience;
• Setting your own pace for learning interests you;
• You're able to integrate deep learning and personal transformation into your current relationships and community life;
• Travel to quarterly retreats is difficult or prohibitive for you, or if you're home-bound;
• You are a self-motivated and disciplined learner, able to start and complete tasks;
• Would relish a one-on-one learning format.

"The Distance Learning Internship has changed the landscape of my life." Read more from one Distance Learner

How the Distance Learning Internship works:

At the beginning of each module, the Program Director (Trish Bruxvoort Colligan) will email you a lovely and extensive PDF packet which serves as your guide for that section of study. A booklist, including a convenient click-and-purchase guide for online purchasing is included. (You are also welcome to borrow resources from a lending library.) Your Program Director is available to provide ongoing support throughout your process, and when all components of the module are complete, you will arrange a phone session with the Program Director.

CURRICULUM:

Each module contains the following components:

• Explore: Topic-related books, articles, CDs, websites, etc.
• Experience: Prayers, meditations, chants or interviews from various spiritual traditions
• Engage: How might various faith traditions express/language the topic at hand?
• Ruminate: PowerPoint presentations, audio or video recordings, podcasts, and written outlines from the Program Director
• Consider Your Practice: Books, websites, videos, audio recordings, podcasts, articles, and interviews with spiritual directors to research and explore various styles of spiritual direction and invite you to consider your own natural style of Story Midwifing
• Integrate through Sacred Arts: Many modules also contain explorations with dance, drum making, mask making, sand trays, meditative painting, and body-mind-spirit practices.

During the training you are expected to:

• Engage all components of each module packet
• Be in individual spiritual direction at least monthly throughout the program
• Beginning with Module Two: Meet with a peer supervision group
• Beginning with Module Three: Spiritually companion two individuals
• Be in contact with your regional Spiritual Directors International contact, participate in regional SDI gatherings, and network with other directors
• Visit a new spiritual community of your choosing each month throughout the length of the program and submit your corresponding written reflections. (Christian worship services—including those of other languages/cultures, Jewish temples, Muslim Mosques, Quaker meetings, Sufi Dances of Universal Peace, Buddhist meditation, Native American rituals/ceremonies, Women's rituals, Bible Studies, Unitarian Universalist gatherings, etc.)
• Complete a minimum of one hour of volunteer service per module
• At the end of each module, meet via telephone with the Program Director
• Complete and submit reflective journaling assignments

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