Spirituality Program
For 20 years the Spirituality Program at The Center for Lifelong Learning at Columbia Theological Seminary has been proud to offer courses in Christian Spirituality.
We now offer two certificate programs in our Spirituality Program for clergy or laypersons who wish to deepen their life with God and learn to assist others on their faith journeys.
Certificate in Spiritual Formation
The Certificate in Spiritual Formation offers people in the pulpit, in the pew, in all denominations and stages of life, an exploration of community-grounded Christian spirituality that is rooted in scripture, theology, a history of the tradition, reading in the spiritual classics, prayer and meditation, and in skills for assisting others on a spiritual journey.
Click to learn about upcoming classes.
Certificate in Spiritual Direction
Spiritual Direction, often called spiritual companioning or spiritual friendship, is an intentional relationship between a person seeking spiritual guidance and a trained individual (the spiritual director). The Certificate in Spiritual Direction is a 2 1/2 year training program for those seeking to discern and develop their gifts and skills as spiritual directors.
Spiritual Director Supervisor Training
Our Spirituality Program partnered with Together in the Mystery to offer a one-year training program for spiritual director supervisors. The training program, for experienced spiritual directors who seek to serve as supervisors for practicing spiritual directors and spiritual directors in training, was completed in May of 2017.
Upcoming Spirituality Program Courses
Event Feed
Seeking God: An Invitation to a Deeper Spiritual Life
01/09/2023
This four-week online retreat is for anyone seeking to cultivate a more meaningful life with God. It may also be helpful for those exploring new directions and callings. With: Carl McColman, Deedra Rich and CTS faculty.
Thomas Merton, Spiritual Guide: An Introduction to Merton through his Writings (Online)
02/27/2023
This course is an introduction to Merton and his writings. Carl McColman will guide this exploration with an eye to how the writings might speak to current times and invite a deepening spiritual life.
Meister Eckhart as a Guide for the Perplexed in Our Times
04/13/2023
In this course, Mark Burrows invites participants to explore the sources of Eckhart’s wisdom, drawing upon selections from his sermons and writings together with poems inspired by these texts. Come for an immersion in startlement and wonder.
Spiritual Direction in Context
04/16/2023
This seminar will explore and practice the basic tenets of spiritual direction – presence, deep listening, and discernment. This is the first residency for the Certificate in Spiritual Direction; enrollment is limited to those accepted to the program through...
Unforced Rhythms of Grace (A Contemplative Retreat)
05/01/2023
Step away from your hectic schedule in exchange for rest in the unforced rhythms of grace. You’re invited to explore the power of stillness, silence, grace, and monastic life during this contemplative retreat.
