Stillpoint at Ghost Ranch

Stillpoint at Ghost Ranch brings Stillpoint's highly regarded Art of Spiritual Direction Formation & Training Program from southern California to the exhilarating landscapes of the historic Ghost Ranch in New Mexico. This program is rooted in the deep contemplative Christian tradition and honors the sacred listening practices of other traditions, as well.

Participants who apply and are accepted in the program will travel to Ghost Ranch for four, one-week residential intensives (two separate weeks each year). An experienced staff of distinguished spiritual directors will facilitate the sessions, using presentations, role-plays, discussions, demonstrations, spiritual practices, contemplative exercises and prayer. The Stillpoint program is noted for engagement and is a practicum. We pursue the art of spiritual direction with hours of practice with participants and staff so the graduates can experience and perfect their gifts in being spiritually present to others. Participants find that their lives change as their gifts of deep listening and presence emerge.

Step I - THE SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

This is the pre-requisite course for the Art of Spiritual Direction program which may also be taken by anyone as a stand alone class in spiritual and personal discernment.  This one week program supports participants in a deep exploration of their personal spiritual lives in a small group setting, deeply enriching their relationship with God/Spirit and recognizing the ways that God is present and working in their lives. Experienced spiritual directors will facilitate and guide participants in developing their skills in deep listening and personal discernment. The program introduces members to the deep and expansive practices of Christian spiritual formation, the ancient practice of Spiritual Direction, and a process whereby participants will discern the next steps in their spiritual journey.
IMPORTANT NEW DATES: The Spiritual Journey will begin on August 20, 2010 (Friday with dinner at 5:30pm) and conclude on August 27, 2010 (Friday at noon). 
Click here for detailed information.

THE ART OF SPIRITUAL DIRECTION FORMATION AND TRAINING PROGRAM

This program begins in November with classes being held over the period beginning November 2010 and ending in March 2012. Sessions are scheduled for November 15-21, 2010; March 7-13, 2011; October 10-16, 2011; and March 5-11, 2012. . Click here for detailed information.

Faculty Three highly experienced spiritual directors/companions will facilitate the class: Vickie Garrison, Ann Gessert, and Christopher McCauley

Vickie Garrison is a spiritual director and facilitator of Stillpoint’s Art of Spiritual Direction Formation and Training Program in southern California. She is a retired Deaf Education Teacher and private consultant for special needs children and families. Vickie is a contemplative with a strong interest in meditation and healing. Midwifery of the spirit is her passion.

Anne Gessert is a spiritual director and faculty member at StillPoint where she facilitates Spiritual Exploration classes and is on the staff of the Art of Spiritual Direction Formation and Training Program in southern California. Anne is a licensed psychotherapist, specializing in working with people with life-threatening illnesses and bereavement issues. For 15 years she has worked for The Wellness Community where she facilitates support groups, both face-to-face and online for cancer patients and their families.

Christopher McCauley is the Executive Director, Stillpoint: The Center for Christian Spirituality.. He is also a spiritual director, worships in the Episcopal Church, and leads interfaith pilgrimages. Christopher is a member of the Coordinating Council of Spiritual Directors International, the first global learning network of spiritual directors in history.

Location: Casa del Sol at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico The classic adobe home offers a spacious common room with fireplace, kitchen and simple living.