Rythms of the Spirit: Crafting a Rule Of Life

Catalog description

Taught by ABSW. In this highly participatory class, you will explore the practice of writing a rule of life that will help you to integrate spiritual practices into your life so that you can be sustained for the long-haul of theological studies and ministry. The concept of a rule comes to us from ancient monastic life. Often these ancient rules were brief, written documents that were intended to help spiritual communities live into their vocations most fully and fruitfully. In this course you will have the opportunity to take the time to prayerfully write your own rule. Your rule will elaborate on eight areas: God, Prayer, Work, Study, Spiritual Companionship, Care of Your Body, Reaching Out, and Hospitality. This course is praxis-oriented, meaning we will engage in our practices and reflect on them together meaningfully. This course draws on resources from Christian faith perspectives; students from all GTU schools and programs are welcome to participate fully from their traditions. At ABSW this course fulfills a requirement in the curricular area of Spirituality & Resilience. I employ a contemplative and liberative pedagogy where students' voices and experiences are highly valued. Evaluation will be based on regular written assignments, class leadership, final project (your Rule of Life) and its presentation to the class.