WEBVTT 00:00:05.920 --> 00:00:06.420 Alright. 00:00:06.480 --> 00:00:08.420 Well, let's get started. 00:00:09.200 --> 00:00:15.725 Welcome everybody to the Divine Mercy University spiritual direction certificate presentation. 00:00:16.985 --> 00:00:18.425 I'm glad to see that you're all here. 00:00:18.425 --> 00:00:19.725 My name is Greg Shapiro. 00:00:19.785 --> 00:00:30.770 I'm the admissions adviser here at DMU, and I will specifically for the spiritual direction certificate program or SDC for short. 00:00:31.790 --> 00:00:35.470 I've been with the university for almost three years now. 00:00:35.470 --> 00:00:39.250 I was enrolling for the master's in psychology program previously. 00:00:40.405 --> 00:00:44.905 And then as of last year, I I switched over to to SDC, and I I really enjoy it. 00:00:45.445 --> 00:00:51.225 Just the ability to have conversations with different people that are called to this ministry. 00:00:52.165 --> 00:01:00.800 Just the ability to talk about our faith and, really how God calls all of us and and helping the students out and starting their journey. 00:01:01.260 --> 00:01:05.360 So with me today is Amanda Serfis. 00:01:05.580 --> 00:01:08.320 She is an active student here at DMU. 00:01:09.225 --> 00:01:13.465 She's wrapping up her program, and I don't wanna step on your toes, Amanda. 00:01:13.465 --> 00:01:16.605 If you'd like to share a little bit about yourself, that'd be great. 00:01:18.825 --> 00:01:19.625 Thank you, Greg. 00:01:19.625 --> 00:01:20.505 Hello, everyone. 00:01:20.505 --> 00:01:22.025 It's good to be here with you. 00:01:22.025 --> 00:01:27.810 Quite the joy, actually, to be able to share some of my experience with you of the program, which has been such a joy. 00:01:28.190 --> 00:01:29.970 Again, my name is Amanda Zervis. 00:01:30.350 --> 00:01:39.525 I am an active canon lawyer for the church, and I felt called to be formed as a spiritual director as well. 00:01:39.525 --> 00:01:53.550 I'm active actively serving as a spiritual director currently, and I also serve as the Catholic outreach specialist for Covenant Eyes, a company that helps men and women with Internet pornography struggles. 00:01:54.170 --> 00:02:04.110 So, I love the church, and I'm just excited to talk about this this offering and the the great depth and richness of spiritual direction for the church with you tonight. 00:02:05.085 --> 00:02:05.585 Excellent. 00:02:05.965 --> 00:02:08.225 Well, thanks again for being with us, Amanda. 00:02:09.165 --> 00:02:10.945 So just a heads up to everybody. 00:02:12.285 --> 00:02:15.425 There's a chat section and a q and a section. 00:02:15.725 --> 00:02:18.685 Amanda and I are just gonna share with you all about the program. 00:02:18.685 --> 00:02:29.320 We're gonna go over the details, and Amanda is gonna share her experience in the program so you can get a good sense of what to expect if you decided that you'd like to proceed. 00:02:30.260 --> 00:02:45.255 But we're gonna open up this room for all questions that you may have, whether it's about the program, any questions for Amanda as a student, what to expect, as well as questions for me just as far as the university and how to get started. 00:02:45.315 --> 00:02:48.930 So, again, it's the chat section, the q and a section. 00:02:48.930 --> 00:02:51.190 We're here to answer those questions for you. 00:02:51.890 --> 00:02:57.990 So to just to kick stuff off, Amanda, I'd love to just cover a few things with you. 00:02:58.450 --> 00:03:03.555 So in your words, how would you describe what spiritual direction is? 00:03:03.555 --> 00:03:07.955 This is a very maybe a a broad term for some people. 00:03:07.955 --> 00:03:10.115 They might imagine one thing or another. 00:03:10.115 --> 00:03:18.540 But just as a spiritual director in your activity in ministry, how would you describe what spiritual direction is? 00:03:21.080 --> 00:03:25.240 So I'm so happy you were starting with this question because it's kind of a mystery. 00:03:25.240 --> 00:03:25.640 Right? 00:03:25.640 --> 00:03:33.695 Especially when you haven't been in a program and you're just exploring it, and we've all had different experiences of spiritual direction in general. 00:03:33.695 --> 00:03:45.155 And I have to say, that before starting the certificate, I had somewhat of a different understanding of spiritual direction, especially compared to what I've come to know it as now. 00:03:45.935 --> 00:03:56.430 So and I have to say it's been many years of building up to what I've come to understand it, as today, and the DMU program has really been key in this understanding. 00:03:57.770 --> 00:04:16.900 So just to kinda give spiritual direction a definition, for us this evening, we can look at spiritual direction, as a sacred practice of walking with a person of faith, either a man or a woman, as really God transforms their heart and mind. 00:04:17.120 --> 00:04:26.240 So it's a sacred practice, but it's also a discipline practice of listening and watching for God's movements in in a directee's life. 00:04:26.240 --> 00:04:36.295 And so in spiritual direction, a director, a spiritual director really tries to draw out what God is doing in a person's life. 00:04:36.295 --> 00:04:43.420 And so the person is better able to recognize and respond to the Lord and what he's really revealing to that person. 00:04:43.800 --> 00:04:44.860 And this is ongoing. 00:04:45.160 --> 00:04:51.100 The director is constantly trying to redirect the directee to his or her relationship with the Lord. 00:04:53.815 --> 00:04:54.135 Yeah. 00:04:54.135 --> 00:04:55.435 That's that's great. 00:04:55.575 --> 00:05:03.835 I one of the students that I spoke with in a previous cohort, he was here for, for his first residency. 00:05:04.695 --> 00:05:14.720 And I remember he used an analogy, and his analogy was, spiritual direction is two people walking through a dark room. 00:05:15.340 --> 00:05:21.040 And it's the director that has the lantern, and he's the one shining at different areas. 00:05:21.805 --> 00:05:27.405 And he's there just making observations saying, you know, look at this, you know, that sort of thing. 00:05:27.405 --> 00:05:40.300 And and it's the direct the excuse me, the directee's job to, just to see what's being shown to him, but to apply it in a way that will help him find his way into the light. 00:05:40.300 --> 00:05:50.225 And I thought that was such a good simple analogy, and it it really seems to be exactly sort of how you described with this sort of sojourning between two two individuals. 00:05:51.725 --> 00:05:54.365 That's a beautiful analogy, and it's true. 00:05:54.365 --> 00:06:00.925 You know, the director is there as an instrument for God to point the directee towards him. 00:06:00.925 --> 00:06:02.925 So it's not about the director at all. 00:06:02.925 --> 00:06:03.425 Right? 00:06:03.610 --> 00:06:16.090 It's all about inviting the directee deeper within to look to God for the answers and not to look to the directee for the answers where I think can be the confusion for us with looking at spiritual direction. 00:06:16.090 --> 00:06:20.905 We can oftentimes confuse it as counseling, but it's it's very different. 00:06:20.905 --> 00:06:22.605 And I, again, I love that analogy. 00:06:23.785 --> 00:06:24.185 Yeah. 00:06:24.185 --> 00:06:24.585 Yeah. 00:06:24.585 --> 00:06:30.605 And I also like how you you brought up how sometimes it's confused with counseling. 00:06:30.665 --> 00:06:39.170 Because I I think for a lot of people, especially students that I speak with when they're looking into this, they highlight their experience with a counselor. 00:06:39.790 --> 00:06:41.570 And, and I understand. 00:06:41.630 --> 00:07:03.080 It it makes sense because I think when you look at if you were to look at two different stills side by side, one is spiritual direction and the other is, a therapy session, they might look almost identical because it's two people sitting together, one is listening intently while the other is speaking, and the one listening is really the one sort of guiding the whole experience. 00:07:03.700 --> 00:07:09.400 So the it it makes a lot of sense why that this sort of overlap confusion can come up. 00:07:09.780 --> 00:07:11.300 But, but you're right. 00:07:11.300 --> 00:07:12.420 I mean, they're very different. 00:07:12.420 --> 00:07:13.960 They have very different functions. 00:07:14.180 --> 00:07:24.015 And, for spiritual direction, like you said, it's really the the practice of helping guide someone in recognizing God in the day to day life. 00:07:24.075 --> 00:07:25.275 So yeah. 00:07:25.275 --> 00:07:26.095 Very good. 00:07:27.850 --> 00:07:29.470 Looks like we have one question. 00:07:29.530 --> 00:07:32.330 And by the way, I'm I'm glad these questions are coming in now. 00:07:32.330 --> 00:07:37.230 If any questions come up for you, for each of you here, feel free to share them. 00:07:38.010 --> 00:07:50.545 Laura asked, please clarify why, in what way an individual might need or want a spiritual director in lieu of a priest. 00:07:51.645 --> 00:07:52.845 So that's a good question. 00:07:52.845 --> 00:08:01.800 So in a I I suppose in addition to a priest, perhaps, Amanda, do you wanna do you wanna take a stab at that one? 00:08:03.140 --> 00:08:03.640 Absolutely. 00:08:03.700 --> 00:08:03.940 Yeah. 00:08:03.940 --> 00:08:04.740 I'd be happy to. 00:08:04.740 --> 00:08:05.940 Laura, thank you for this question. 00:08:05.940 --> 00:08:06.900 It's a great question. 00:08:06.900 --> 00:08:10.120 I get it often, so do my colleagues and my peers, my classmates. 00:08:10.740 --> 00:08:23.255 So, a spiritual director is all about, you know, you have the freedom to pick your spiritual director, and your spiritual director has the freedom to say yes or no to your inquiry to serve as your director. 00:08:23.255 --> 00:08:23.755 Right? 00:08:23.850 --> 00:08:28.190 So it's all about really the the choice and the call too. 00:08:28.330 --> 00:08:36.105 This is really you discern who your spiritual director is going to be, and it's really interesting how spiritual directors can come about in your life. 00:08:36.185 --> 00:08:36.665 Right? 00:08:36.665 --> 00:08:45.865 Oftentimes, it's quite providential, and it's around the timing of when you've been praying for a director or, it's just been stirring in you that, hey. 00:08:45.865 --> 00:08:49.545 I see this as a need, and I'm desiring deeper growth with you, Lord. 00:08:49.545 --> 00:08:51.405 Can you send somebody to me? 00:08:51.850 --> 00:09:02.730 And so the church allows for and encourages men and women, laity and clergy to be formed as spiritual directees or spiritual directors. 00:09:02.730 --> 00:09:03.390 I'm sorry. 00:09:03.450 --> 00:09:08.265 And so priests, they have a very particular formation in the priesthood. 00:09:08.265 --> 00:09:08.505 Right? 00:09:08.505 --> 00:09:10.525 They have extensive training and formation. 00:09:11.065 --> 00:09:18.540 And sometimes they are trained specifically in, spiritual direction techniques, and they have that formation. 00:09:19.160 --> 00:09:23.000 Others don't have a lot of intensive training in this area. 00:09:23.000 --> 00:09:28.060 They can certainly offer guidance in in the life of virtue and holiness. 00:09:28.440 --> 00:09:43.720 And guidance and, like we said, counseling can be quite different than what we're talking about here with spiritual direction and especially with the method that the spiritual direction certificate through DMU trains directees in. 00:09:43.780 --> 00:09:45.800 So a lot goes into this. 00:09:45.860 --> 00:09:49.000 So if you want a priest, it's it's part of discernment. 00:09:49.060 --> 00:09:49.560 Right? 00:09:49.620 --> 00:09:57.495 And then it's also about what the priest can offer by way of his formation with spiritual direction. 00:09:58.195 --> 00:10:08.730 Many times a priest will refer, individuals who come to him for to for spiritual direction to an actual trained, a spiritual director. 00:10:08.730 --> 00:10:17.150 Or, you know, depending on what the person needs, it may take place in the context of of confession, the counsel that he provides. 00:10:18.090 --> 00:10:24.155 But, again, counsel versus what type of spiritual direction direction we're talking about this evening is actually different. 00:10:26.055 --> 00:10:26.555 Yeah. 00:10:26.615 --> 00:10:30.535 I I'm I'm so glad, Laura, that you asked that question, Amanda. 00:10:30.535 --> 00:10:34.475 Thank you for for sort of unfolding all of that. 00:10:36.110 --> 00:10:46.770 And it's such a good question too because so many people ask, and this is usually coming from laypeople where they say, am I qualified for this because I'm a layperson? 00:10:47.790 --> 00:10:53.745 I feel like this is really something only designed for those in in the priesthood or in the in the diaconate. 00:10:54.285 --> 00:11:06.590 And one thing that's interesting is, father Boniface Hicks, who he's the author of one of our textbooks, and he's a well known, priest, and he's also a spiritual director. 00:11:07.210 --> 00:11:16.830 I I heard him share, how spiritual direction really is in its in its essence a lay ministry. 00:11:16.890 --> 00:11:18.430 It began that way anyway. 00:11:21.235 --> 00:11:25.975 And, so this is something that goes back to the desert fathers who are laypeople. 00:11:27.155 --> 00:11:35.930 And so spiritual direction is very much of a lay ministry, though there are a lot of priests who are very active in this ministry as well. 00:11:36.150 --> 00:11:39.610 For some people, they love having priests as their spiritual directors. 00:11:39.910 --> 00:11:47.555 There's something to meeting with one and and also having that spiritual director as as his or her confessor. 00:11:47.855 --> 00:11:59.155 And for others, it's very helpful to have a a layperson, maybe speaking with someone that's in a very similar, vocation as as they are. 00:11:59.270 --> 00:12:05.450 And so that's, I think, a good reason why God calls for so many different people to serve in this ministry. 00:12:06.070 --> 00:12:08.310 So, yeah, great question. 00:12:08.310 --> 00:12:09.850 I'm so glad this was asked. 00:12:10.710 --> 00:12:13.450 And it looks like we have another question. 00:12:15.105 --> 00:12:24.625 And so Stacy asked, what would you estimate for the total cost of the program from start to finish trying to figure this out in our family budget? 00:12:24.625 --> 00:12:25.425 Thank you. 00:12:25.425 --> 00:12:26.785 Stacy, that's a very good question. 00:12:26.785 --> 00:12:32.780 We're gonna cover that, as we continue down because I know that cost and time frame are very important. 00:12:34.440 --> 00:12:35.800 So hang on to that question. 00:12:35.800 --> 00:12:46.165 We're gonna definitely go over that because I also, by the way, wanna go over ways on how we can save money for students in different ways of of, making that possible. 00:12:47.425 --> 00:12:49.285 So good question. 00:12:49.585 --> 00:12:50.085 Yeah. 00:12:50.145 --> 00:12:52.725 Amanda, I have more to talk about with you. 00:12:53.620 --> 00:12:58.340 So one thing, can you share a little bit about your experience with the cohort model? 00:12:58.340 --> 00:13:03.960 Because this is an online program, and it's it's asynchronous as well. 00:13:05.220 --> 00:13:08.115 But you're still working with with other students. 00:13:08.115 --> 00:13:10.215 You're working alongside a class. 00:13:10.515 --> 00:13:13.415 So could you share a little bit about your experience with that? 00:13:14.435 --> 00:13:14.915 Yeah. 00:13:14.915 --> 00:13:19.735 So as we all know, especially through our COVID experience, we need community. 00:13:19.955 --> 00:13:20.355 Right? 00:13:20.355 --> 00:13:27.360 We we thrive off of relationships and people, and it's so important to the way we learn and the way we thrive. 00:13:27.360 --> 00:13:29.360 So, this is no different. 00:13:29.360 --> 00:13:38.375 With this, certificate, we are blessed with what's referred to as a cohort, or I suppose you could also say classmates. 00:13:38.595 --> 00:13:39.095 Right? 00:13:40.195 --> 00:13:49.770 And so when you sign up for the certificate and if you don't skip a semester, you'll have the same classmates throughout the program. 00:13:50.230 --> 00:14:01.350 So you'll meet one another first by way of written introductions, during through the way that we have everything set up on it's called is it called Canvas? 00:14:01.350 --> 00:14:02.295 I'm blanking on our our platform. 00:14:02.295 --> 00:14:02.339 That's right. 00:14:02.339 --> 00:14:10.495 There's a actual platform for our program for a actual platform for our program for our program, and we get access to one another. 00:14:10.495 --> 00:14:15.315 We have a digital, platform to be able to communicate and receive our assignments. 00:14:15.375 --> 00:14:30.710 So the first way we meet one another is digital, and then it moves into Zoom sessions where, we officially meet and share and eventually practice as spiritual directors and directees, with one another. 00:14:30.710 --> 00:14:41.885 We're assigned vignettes that that we practice, and that's kind of our really first experience of using the method, with another person, with other people. 00:14:41.885 --> 00:14:46.685 So, those that's our initial introduction with one another. 00:14:46.685 --> 00:14:49.060 And then we have two on sites. 00:14:49.060 --> 00:15:00.740 And during those on sites, which I found are really crucial to the learning experience and really the overall formation of this program, you practice one with one another in group settings. 00:15:00.740 --> 00:15:06.865 So, again, you're there with your cohort at both of the on sites and you practice in person. 00:15:07.165 --> 00:15:13.985 And that may sound a little intimidating, but I found it that it's truly key for growing into the director role. 00:15:14.525 --> 00:15:32.160 And as you end the near as you end the program, you're signed up for supervision, which includes, a head supervisor, which is a professor, and three or four other classmates where you present spiritual direction sessions. 00:15:32.715 --> 00:15:42.475 Again, you receive feedback and have the opportunity to really explore, your own feelings and emotions from the session that you presented. 00:15:42.475 --> 00:15:43.615 So it's very helpful. 00:15:43.995 --> 00:15:50.240 And oftentimes, more helpful is when your classmates present their own spiritual direction sessions. 00:15:50.700 --> 00:16:03.635 So overall, the cohort you are in is very much a part of your formation and learning, and there's lots of opportunities, for interaction with them that happens during the class and also outside of the class. 00:16:03.635 --> 00:16:13.635 You really establish relationships as you would in school, at any other academic program that you have probably been a part of, and you become friends and you become colleagues. 00:16:13.635 --> 00:16:25.360 And these relationships are really important even for after, the program because you need that ongoing support and encouragement and even referrals, for professional needs. 00:16:27.595 --> 00:16:27.915 Yeah. 00:16:27.915 --> 00:16:28.395 Wow. 00:16:28.395 --> 00:16:39.755 And this is I'm glad you brought up all of that because that's that's a I think for a lot of students looking into this and misunderstanding as well as far as the fact that it's online. 00:16:39.755 --> 00:16:48.710 So many of them think that this is something that they do completely on their own, but, there really is camaraderie between between the students. 00:16:48.710 --> 00:16:50.250 They're working as a team. 00:16:50.790 --> 00:16:54.645 And the residencies, and I'm gonna ask you more about that. 00:16:54.645 --> 00:16:57.145 I wanna die I wanna do a deep dive into that too. 00:16:57.765 --> 00:17:13.980 But it's interesting seeing the students come to campus for the first time with their cohorts for the residencies because when they see each other and they they connect, it's not like they're extending their hand and saying, and and who are you? 00:17:13.980 --> 00:17:14.940 And, oh, okay. 00:17:14.940 --> 00:17:16.080 I'm so and so. 00:17:16.460 --> 00:17:18.780 They're these are folks that know each other already. 00:17:18.780 --> 00:17:24.415 They're just seeing each other for the first time in person, but that camaraderie has existed beforehand. 00:17:24.555 --> 00:17:29.035 So it's very interesting seeing them say, oh, it's great to see you, John. 00:17:29.035 --> 00:17:31.695 Oh, it's great to see you you, Jane, in in the flesh. 00:17:33.035 --> 00:17:33.355 Yeah. 00:17:33.355 --> 00:17:37.650 It's a it's a really good sort of support that the students have with one another. 00:17:38.610 --> 00:17:50.610 So speaking of the residencies, by the way, Amanda, what was it like for you, what were the residencies like for you as far as the first time or maybe the second time? 00:17:50.610 --> 00:17:53.395 Just your general take on what what that was like. 00:17:53.395 --> 00:17:58.775 And you mentioned that it was key, but maybe you can if there's a little bit more that you'd like to share, that would be great. 00:17:59.715 --> 00:18:00.215 Absolutely. 00:18:00.515 --> 00:18:02.755 So, not to confuse anybody. 00:18:02.755 --> 00:18:05.655 I was actually referring to the residencies as on-site. 00:18:05.875 --> 00:18:11.030 So, you can ignore that or just recognize that that's what I was talking about. 00:18:11.030 --> 00:18:13.050 So I was referring to the residency. 00:18:13.270 --> 00:18:14.570 Sorry for any confusion. 00:18:16.070 --> 00:18:26.065 You know, I'd have to say, like, any online program, if you've never been to the university, the campus is kind of a mystery. 00:18:26.125 --> 00:18:26.625 Right? 00:18:27.405 --> 00:18:34.625 So it was a little nerve wracking, and also exciting to go to our first residency. 00:18:35.645 --> 00:18:39.600 We received, again, like I said, we received a lot of great information. 00:18:40.620 --> 00:18:48.640 We had daily mass and a and confession available to us, and we also had, community meals. 00:18:48.700 --> 00:18:54.915 And and really importantly, we had all the expert teachers on-site all week with us. 00:18:54.915 --> 00:18:59.495 You feel actually very cared for and quite spoiled. 00:18:59.715 --> 00:19:07.160 So you're receiving the best of the best in the the spiritual direction world to to be formed. 00:19:07.620 --> 00:19:18.020 And you even yourself, you experience a bit of a conversion and a deepening, because so much of this journey is of you and God too. 00:19:18.020 --> 00:19:18.340 You know? 00:19:18.340 --> 00:19:20.200 This isn't just about your directees. 00:19:20.260 --> 00:19:26.195 This is also about your own formation and growth and relationship with God, which feeds your ministry. 00:19:26.735 --> 00:19:31.235 And so the residencies are really, life giving in that way. 00:19:31.615 --> 00:19:34.435 They're almost like mini retreats, I guess you could say. 00:19:35.430 --> 00:19:41.370 And so at the first on-site, you've like Greg said, you finally get to meet your cohort. 00:19:41.990 --> 00:19:45.370 And, just it's there's a lot of emotions. 00:19:45.430 --> 00:19:45.830 You know? 00:19:45.830 --> 00:19:46.790 You laugh together. 00:19:46.790 --> 00:19:47.670 You cry together. 00:19:47.670 --> 00:19:49.030 You're embarrassed together. 00:19:49.030 --> 00:19:50.170 You're really stretched. 00:19:51.875 --> 00:19:56.135 And just so it's again, a lot of growth happens at the on sites. 00:19:56.595 --> 00:20:14.910 And because this is where you finally get to apply in person what you've been learning and getting, and getting really solid feedback on, you know, you get to do this again in person and how to grow in the spiritual direction method that we have been learning online. 00:20:15.050 --> 00:20:19.070 This all happens in person, and so it's it's exciting. 00:20:19.290 --> 00:20:35.905 The the second on-site is even better than the first, I would say, because you you've already experienced the nerves, that come, you know, that come with something new, and you've already developed and established relationships with your cohort. 00:20:36.045 --> 00:20:41.480 So the second residency kind of feels more like a reunion in a sense. 00:20:41.860 --> 00:20:54.815 And the content of the second residency is even more rich because you've grown more, and you have new questions to ask, and you have new fears and joys to share as well. 00:20:54.875 --> 00:20:59.995 And, overall, you're more experienced and excited about what's to come. 00:20:59.995 --> 00:21:06.575 You're getting even closer to finishing the certificate and being of service to to mother church. 00:21:08.530 --> 00:21:08.850 Yeah. 00:21:08.850 --> 00:21:09.350 Excellent. 00:21:09.970 --> 00:21:11.810 We have a lot of questions coming in. 00:21:11.810 --> 00:21:13.990 I wanna make sure we can get to all of them. 00:21:14.930 --> 00:21:15.970 These are all great. 00:21:15.970 --> 00:21:22.390 So Jackie asked she she said, Amanda, how do you discern who you take on in spiritual direction? 00:21:23.985 --> 00:21:25.825 This is a great question, Jackie. 00:21:25.825 --> 00:21:34.325 So, actually, the program itself, the certificate program helps you to learn how to do that, which is such a blessing and a gift because it can be overwhelming. 00:21:35.025 --> 00:21:52.430 And so, what the program recommends is meeting with the person who has reached out to you about direction for thirty minutes, you know, just to see if if it's a good fit and to see what they're looking for and for you to explain the method that that you're offering. 00:21:53.415 --> 00:22:01.335 And then you can both discern after that thirty minute session with one another if if this is the best, next step. 00:22:01.335 --> 00:22:07.680 And, again, knowing that you have freedom and the director has freedom on how to move forward. 00:22:08.140 --> 00:22:13.340 Also, you have an intake form that's given to you by the DMU, staff. 00:22:13.340 --> 00:22:22.905 The program itself provides an intake form that helps you get to know the directee and see their background, their history, where they're coming from. 00:22:24.965 --> 00:22:42.120 Many of the the tools that you'll learn and the the methods that you'll learn in this program is how to identify, needs of the psychological versus the spiritual, and that is really significant when deciding, who you take on as a directee. 00:22:42.260 --> 00:22:50.005 And that's all explored in this program, and it's it's a really key, and and significant, learning. 00:22:50.005 --> 00:22:55.465 It's something something that you really need to be equipped with as you head into this this, field of of ministry. 00:22:56.885 --> 00:22:57.205 Yeah. 00:22:57.205 --> 00:22:57.705 Excellent. 00:22:58.165 --> 00:23:03.520 And, one question Stacy asked, and I'd be happy to answer this one for you, Stacy. 00:23:03.900 --> 00:23:05.760 Are the residencies only in Virginia? 00:23:06.540 --> 00:23:07.580 That's a very good question. 00:23:07.580 --> 00:23:11.200 So the residencies are located here in Sterling, Virginia. 00:23:11.260 --> 00:23:13.920 So we're about a five minute drive from Dulles Airport. 00:23:14.945 --> 00:23:21.045 I live in DC, so it's about a it takes me about forty minutes more or less to get from home to the campus. 00:23:21.345 --> 00:23:23.925 So, hopefully, that gives you an idea of where we're located. 00:23:24.625 --> 00:23:28.670 But the residencies are located on-site on campus. 00:23:29.370 --> 00:23:33.390 And, as Amanda mentioned, they happen twice in the program. 00:23:33.450 --> 00:23:37.710 So just to give you an idea, the first one happens during your third term. 00:23:37.930 --> 00:23:42.325 That's about more or less ten months from when you start the program. 00:23:43.105 --> 00:23:53.685 And we make sure that the students know exactly when that is so that you can be prepared for it, let your family know, your employer know, whoever needs to know that you'll be traveling for those few days. 00:23:54.090 --> 00:23:56.910 And then the second one happens during the fifth term. 00:23:57.930 --> 00:24:00.990 And, again, we make sure that the students know the the dates. 00:24:01.370 --> 00:24:15.755 And if students can't make the residencies, a a specific week, let's say, because it falls on maybe a wedding you need to get to or there's a scheduled surgery, students can certainly take a leave of absence if that's needed. 00:24:15.755 --> 00:24:21.435 I only ever encourage doing it, for a reason, but they're there because life does happen. 00:24:21.435 --> 00:24:28.270 We wanna make sure that, you can tend to your life while while at the same time being able to complete your program. 00:24:29.210 --> 00:24:32.990 So, anything that you'd like to add to that, Amanda? 00:24:34.090 --> 00:24:34.410 No. 00:24:34.410 --> 00:24:35.950 I think that was good. 00:24:36.090 --> 00:24:36.590 Okay. 00:24:36.730 --> 00:24:37.230 Good. 00:24:38.085 --> 00:24:38.485 Let's see. 00:24:38.485 --> 00:24:40.345 We have another question from Lisa. 00:24:40.885 --> 00:24:45.785 And Lisa asked, what made you decide to choose DMU over other programs? 00:24:49.285 --> 00:24:50.745 So it's all about discernment. 00:24:50.965 --> 00:24:51.285 Right? 00:24:51.285 --> 00:24:58.100 And it's all about relationships when it comes to our our choices and God's, navigating us. 00:24:58.240 --> 00:25:21.025 So I, have been active in the theology of the body institute, which many of you have maybe heard of with Christopher West, and they have a strong relationship with the Divine Mercy University certificate program because their staff many of their staff have been trained, through DMU's program, which is quite the gift, to be able to be of service in that way. 00:25:21.220 --> 00:25:31.700 And so I learned about DMU through the theology of the body institute, and I, learned that it was a trusted program, an orthodox program. 00:25:31.700 --> 00:25:38.875 And I just started to look into what the offering was, and I noticed just how well structured it was. 00:25:38.875 --> 00:25:39.695 It's accredited. 00:25:40.235 --> 00:25:49.835 It's, and it's just it's a really a really reliable and and strong, offering, and so are the other programs though too. 00:25:49.835 --> 00:25:57.770 You know, there's a really strong relationship between DMU and the other spiritual direction, programs. 00:25:58.150 --> 00:26:04.525 So I would have to say if you're questioning what program to join, explore all of them. 00:26:04.525 --> 00:26:15.905 And Maria Brackett, who is, just a great, resource at DMU and also Greg, they'll help you in the process of deciding what's the best fit for you. 00:26:17.020 --> 00:26:17.260 Yeah. 00:26:17.260 --> 00:26:20.800 And I'll I'll even add to that because that that's such a good question. 00:26:21.500 --> 00:26:27.520 A lot of students do ask me, what what makes this program so so unique? 00:26:28.220 --> 00:26:30.300 Why why would I choose this one versus others? 00:26:30.300 --> 00:26:34.535 Because we're not the only spiritual direction certificate out there. 00:26:34.535 --> 00:26:36.075 There are there are others that exist. 00:26:36.695 --> 00:26:41.255 And for many of them, they have different spiritualities connected to them. 00:26:41.255 --> 00:26:50.690 And and by that, I mean, there might be one that's way more nation based, and then there might be one that's much more, perhaps Carmelite influenced. 00:26:51.470 --> 00:26:55.550 But within this program, there's there is Ignatian influence. 00:26:55.550 --> 00:26:58.290 Saint John of the Cross is a large influence in the program. 00:26:58.685 --> 00:27:00.305 Saint Francis is as well. 00:27:01.165 --> 00:27:19.820 But that that psychology component built into this is a very powerful one because we wanna train students on how to be solid spiritual directors while at the same time having some some foundational knowledge on human development and how that relates within the context of spiritual direction. 00:27:20.760 --> 00:27:26.295 As spiritual directors, you may end up working with people that they might be carrying around a trauma. 00:27:26.515 --> 00:27:29.175 Maybe they're battling some sort of mental health difficulties. 00:27:29.315 --> 00:27:47.630 And so we we do want to equip the students, of course, not to try to be their their therapist, but how to recognize that and speak to that with gentleness, with empathy as the spiritual director, and also if necessary, how to properly refer them to a therapist if that that healing is needed. 00:27:48.730 --> 00:27:50.410 So that's a great question, Lisa. 00:27:50.410 --> 00:27:51.790 I'm glad you asked that. 00:27:52.895 --> 00:27:57.795 There's another question by Lisa, and she said, are the professors priests? 00:27:58.175 --> 00:27:59.795 And that's a good question. 00:28:00.815 --> 00:28:02.175 So some of them are. 00:28:02.735 --> 00:28:07.230 We have some faculty members that are active in the priesthood, and and we also have some laypeople. 00:28:08.170 --> 00:28:17.050 Amanda, I don't know if you wanna add to that question or not, but, all the faculty that I speak with are I'm just impressed by them. 00:28:17.610 --> 00:28:31.445 The the people that have created this program, some of them are are licensed clinicians, and some of them have been active in in their priest priestly vocation for many years, but, it's just a great, great faculty. 00:28:33.600 --> 00:28:34.000 Yeah. 00:28:34.000 --> 00:28:35.860 So, Lisa, that's a great question. 00:28:35.920 --> 00:28:46.305 So two of my main formators at Divine Mercy were priests, in fact, and excellent, excellent, teachers and leaders in the program itself. 00:28:46.305 --> 00:28:50.725 So you can be assured there is a previously presence, which is a great gift, of course. 00:28:51.265 --> 00:28:59.905 And then also, we have consecrated virgins who are also instructors and lay men and women who are are married. 00:28:59.905 --> 00:29:11.110 So we have the variety of vocations that bring forth a great, knowledge and the the truth of of the church, the wealth, and the richness of our teachings of our faith. 00:29:11.330 --> 00:29:26.235 And all of these men and women are Catholics in good standing and have come vetted, and they have the backgrounds and the formation to be able to stand in the place as of instructors and formators. 00:29:26.375 --> 00:29:37.250 So you can be assured that these men and women are, are in good standing and are endorsed, to be able to to do this and to lead, the formation program. 00:29:37.310 --> 00:29:38.450 So great question. 00:29:39.390 --> 00:29:39.630 Yeah. 00:29:39.630 --> 00:29:40.450 Very good. 00:29:41.150 --> 00:29:46.855 So Michael asked, once we become a spiritual director, do you only direct Catholics? 00:29:48.515 --> 00:29:52.615 How about non Catholic Christian non or non Christian people? 00:29:53.715 --> 00:29:55.235 Michael, that's a very good question. 00:29:55.235 --> 00:30:01.230 So, you know, I'll start by just highlighting, and, Amanda, maybe you can add on a little bit more to that. 00:30:02.490 --> 00:30:08.830 Just as the admissions adviser, I work with a lot of students, and many of them do come from the Catholic tradition. 00:30:08.970 --> 00:30:11.690 Many of them are active within their Catholic faith. 00:30:11.690 --> 00:30:21.045 And I also work with a lot of students admitting them and and enrolling them through the process, who are non Catholic Christians that are active in ministry. 00:30:21.185 --> 00:30:29.080 So whether they're Eastern Orthodox or they are, evangelical or or Anglican or nondenominational. 00:30:30.260 --> 00:30:39.960 What they all have in common is this love for God and this love to serve others and helping direct others deeper into their Christian faith. 00:30:40.605 --> 00:30:46.145 And and we we categorize this program as being a Catholic Christian program. 00:30:47.005 --> 00:30:52.865 While this does come from the Catholic tradition, it's very rich within within the the church history. 00:30:53.725 --> 00:31:02.390 It's also something that a lot of, a lot of our our Protestant and Orthodox brothers and sisters are very active in as well. 00:31:02.390 --> 00:31:14.935 And so this is something that we we love to invite them into the program, and, it's always just a joy having whether it's Catholics or or non Catholic Christians in this program as well. 00:31:14.935 --> 00:31:22.395 And and that also means offering direction to, to others that may or may not be Catholic. 00:31:23.860 --> 00:31:35.160 So, again, the the really, the the main purpose of it is helping someone recognize God a little bit deeper and helping them grow deeper in their faith and recognizing what he's communicating to them. 00:31:39.535 --> 00:31:41.715 Amanda, anything you'd like to add to that? 00:31:43.135 --> 00:31:43.535 Yeah. 00:31:43.535 --> 00:31:54.200 I think it's important going back to what kind of method that DMU trains directors in, and I think this will help one of the questions I think also asked about methods. 00:31:54.740 --> 00:32:05.885 So the method that DMU forms spiritual directors in is called contemplative evocative method, and it's really a nonhierarchical approach to spiritual direction. 00:32:05.885 --> 00:32:12.945 So in layman's terms, this approach, you don't look to the director for answers. 00:32:13.725 --> 00:32:15.005 You are in the session. 00:32:15.005 --> 00:32:15.885 You look to God. 00:32:15.885 --> 00:32:22.970 And, again, it's all about the director pointing the directee back to God and just ongoing. 00:32:23.110 --> 00:32:25.610 It's it's just an ongoing, process. 00:32:25.830 --> 00:32:34.235 And you do that through deepening and validating and evoking, and there's all these skills that you're trained in in order to be able to do this. 00:32:34.535 --> 00:32:45.335 And so why that's important is that this method is, again, very much about pointing the directee back to God, not looking to the director for answers. 00:32:45.335 --> 00:32:45.835 Right? 00:32:45.840 --> 00:32:46.720 You're looking to God. 00:32:46.720 --> 00:32:48.180 You're going into the interior. 00:32:48.720 --> 00:32:53.520 So this spiritual direction method is not a catechetical method. 00:32:53.520 --> 00:32:53.920 Right? 00:32:53.920 --> 00:33:04.875 So the sessions aren't intended for catechesis per se, which I think is really helpful in regards to, can I take on a non Catholic as a spiritual directee? 00:33:05.575 --> 00:33:11.115 The session is not intended for catechesis of the Catholic faith per se. 00:33:11.175 --> 00:33:11.675 Right? 00:33:12.180 --> 00:33:20.440 It's very much intended to guide the relationship to a deeper level to be able to better listen to God and his promptings. 00:33:21.060 --> 00:33:33.415 Now if there's an opportunity for catechesis, what we learn in the program is that you really have to draw the line of when spiritual direction is taking place versus catechesis or a referral. 00:33:33.795 --> 00:33:37.395 So there's just really intentional communication that has to take place. 00:33:37.395 --> 00:33:50.130 And all these skills are taught in this program, which I found and have found to be a great blessing and something I was struggling navigating with before I was trained by DMU, and I can't recommend it enough. 00:33:51.550 --> 00:33:52.450 Very good. 00:33:52.955 --> 00:33:58.655 So, you know, I know that questions on cost and and time commitment, these are big ones. 00:33:58.715 --> 00:34:03.855 And I think these are probably the biggest deciding factors for a lot of students. 00:34:04.555 --> 00:34:15.810 So maybe we can do a little bit of a dive into that, and And, hopefully, that will, answer a lot of your questions and maybe spark more questions, on top of that. 00:34:16.190 --> 00:34:28.885 So looking at this and I think it's helpful to talk about the time commitment before we go into the, into the cost because there's actually a little bit of relation there, and I'll explain why. 00:34:29.425 --> 00:34:33.845 So the the program itself, it's a two year program. 00:34:34.945 --> 00:34:40.340 And so the way this works is that there are six courses that you're taking in total. 00:34:40.720 --> 00:34:46.020 You're taking three courses per, excuse me, per academic year. 00:34:46.640 --> 00:34:50.740 So in other words, you're taking one course per eight week term. 00:34:52.215 --> 00:34:55.415 And along with that, usually and this isn't really set in stone. 00:34:55.415 --> 00:35:00.295 And, Amanda, you might even, have some have something to say on top of this. 00:35:00.295 --> 00:35:10.680 But on average, just more of a pattern that we see, students are committing somewhere between, six hours to maybe nine or ten hours per week. 00:35:10.980 --> 00:35:12.900 I think it could depend on the student. 00:35:12.900 --> 00:35:15.940 It might depend on the course they're taking. 00:35:15.940 --> 00:35:17.480 It could depend on the week. 00:35:17.995 --> 00:35:23.615 But the courses are built in a way that would take roughly amount around this amount of time. 00:35:24.955 --> 00:35:31.530 And we we do it also just to make it more accessible to students, especially for those that do work a full time job. 00:35:31.530 --> 00:35:34.350 Maybe they have a busy home life or whatever it might be. 00:35:35.050 --> 00:35:39.150 So I would keep that in mind to all the all of you who are here learning about this. 00:35:39.530 --> 00:35:49.045 I would suggest looking at your own schedule, seeing if maybe being on the conservative side, if nine or ten hours per week could be doable for you. 00:35:49.505 --> 00:35:52.325 It might mean shifting a few things here and there. 00:35:52.625 --> 00:35:57.525 But also keep in mind that the program really is designed to be primarily asynchronous. 00:35:58.710 --> 00:36:07.750 So we do it this way also to make it accessible so that you can, log in to your classes at a time that works for you. 00:36:07.750 --> 00:36:15.055 You can log in early or late at night, just making it a little bit more fit within your current schedule. 00:36:17.195 --> 00:36:24.555 Amanda, since I'm asking or I'm I'm talking about the time commitment per week, does that seem to check out with you? 00:36:24.555 --> 00:36:31.500 Did you have any sort of thoughts on your experiences as far as the time you were putting in per week for for each class? 00:36:33.000 --> 00:36:33.160 Yeah. 00:36:33.160 --> 00:36:35.240 I think it's different per class. 00:36:35.240 --> 00:36:35.740 Right? 00:36:35.800 --> 00:36:43.415 So the intensity is different per each class just based on on the topics and especially as you near the end of the program. 00:36:44.275 --> 00:36:51.075 You guys may remember me mentioning at the beginning that there are Zoom calls that take place with your cohort, right, with your classmates. 00:36:51.075 --> 00:36:55.370 You're assigned different groups, for recording sessions and practicing. 00:36:55.990 --> 00:37:09.455 So it kind of fluctuates each week the the, intensity of the coursework based on if you have an additional video that you need to film and notes that you need to take in writing, that you have to submit. 00:37:09.515 --> 00:37:20.095 So it can fluctuate, and I think, you kinda learn that as you go through the program and you kinda get a pattern and start to understand, okay. 00:37:20.640 --> 00:37:23.600 This type of assignment will take me this long. 00:37:23.600 --> 00:37:30.000 You start to learn yourself and also the the way that the assignments are structured as well. 00:37:30.000 --> 00:37:37.045 So but I would say the average, that you mentioned, Greg, is is pretty accurate. 00:37:37.265 --> 00:37:41.925 And but, again, it just depends on the individual and how you learn. 00:37:42.225 --> 00:37:47.825 There's audio, visual, resources, so lots of videos to be able to learn. 00:37:47.825 --> 00:37:52.580 There's reading, and there's also suggested reading that's not required. 00:37:52.720 --> 00:38:01.540 So it depends on how motivated you are and how much time you have and if you wanna read the extra material. 00:38:01.680 --> 00:38:06.485 So that would add to your week and and the intensity of it. 00:38:07.825 --> 00:38:20.740 I you know, since you mentioned the the extra material one could read, I will highlight too, and this is continuing on with the discussion of of the time commitment of the program. 00:38:21.120 --> 00:38:26.720 Between each course, there are breaks, and they're helpful for a number of reasons. 00:38:26.720 --> 00:38:28.080 And I'll I'll go over each one. 00:38:28.080 --> 00:38:36.045 But one thing that whenever I speak with students about these, a lot of them share how they do the extra reading during these periods. 00:38:36.045 --> 00:38:56.510 There's a little bit more of a a time where they can take a step back and reflect on the content they've been learning, but then also they can use that time to read the, the other chapters that are not required so that they can get extra context to what they've been going what they've been been been learning in the program. 00:38:57.935 --> 00:39:10.195 But the other benefits this pro or to these these breaks, and I'll talk about how long these breaks are, they're very helpful in that the the major holidays happen during these periods. 00:39:10.255 --> 00:39:20.110 So with Thanksgiving and Christmas week and holy week and Easter week, whenever these come up, that means that you're in a down period. 00:39:20.110 --> 00:39:28.015 So you're you're not having to juggle, you know, celebrating these times while at the same time submitting assignments. 00:39:28.075 --> 00:39:30.495 You can just focus on these celebratory moments. 00:39:31.435 --> 00:39:35.295 But, also, it it's helpful for students financially. 00:39:35.835 --> 00:39:37.355 It's a pay as you go program. 00:39:37.355 --> 00:39:39.615 We're gonna look at the cost in just a moment. 00:39:41.090 --> 00:39:51.090 But the great thing about the time the time frame of the breaks is that on the short end, it's about six weeks, and on the long end, it's about nine or ten weeks. 00:39:51.090 --> 00:39:54.385 It just depends on where it falls in the academic calendar. 00:39:55.565 --> 00:40:06.650 But they're pretty pretty substantial breaks, so it gives students a little bit of a chance to come up for air to breathe, to replenish their funds, and to prepare for their next course. 00:40:07.190 --> 00:40:11.050 So that's one of the other benefits of of these breaks taking place. 00:40:13.430 --> 00:40:14.150 Let's see. 00:40:14.150 --> 00:40:16.150 Why don't we I know that there are more questions. 00:40:16.150 --> 00:40:18.310 I I really appreciate all these questions coming in. 00:40:18.310 --> 00:40:19.610 We're gonna get to these. 00:40:20.315 --> 00:40:24.575 One of the questions that's been hanging on here is related to the cost. 00:40:25.115 --> 00:40:27.375 So let's look at that for just a moment. 00:40:28.395 --> 00:40:36.310 And, I will preface something that the cost per course that you're looking at, each course is 800. 00:40:37.010 --> 00:40:39.830 There is room to reduce it. 00:40:40.850 --> 00:40:55.305 What I'd wanna do is have a one on one conversation with each of you to understand, sort of what your circumstances in life, and we can talk about if you benefit for tuition reduction, and how that works. 00:40:55.365 --> 00:41:05.920 But, before any sort of tuition reduction and by the way, it's very common in in order to get that, so I don't want you to feel like it's only offered to just a couple of people. 00:41:05.920 --> 00:41:07.940 There's it it can be very doable. 00:41:09.280 --> 00:41:12.980 But on before any of that, the cost per course is 800. 00:41:13.565 --> 00:41:17.985 And then the cost per residency is 1,100. 00:41:18.605 --> 00:41:23.425 And that's, you know, again, these are the two residences that happen on campus. 00:41:23.805 --> 00:41:27.170 And that 1,100 will cover your lodging. 00:41:27.390 --> 00:41:30.050 It'll cover, your materials. 00:41:30.190 --> 00:41:31.950 It'll cover most of your meals. 00:41:31.950 --> 00:41:43.825 So the only out of pocket expense would be your travel, and then students are also responsible for for three of their dinners, while they're here for the four day residencies. 00:41:45.405 --> 00:41:55.745 But overall, before any, again, before any sort of tuition reduction, the total cost would be, 7,000 for the entire two year program. 00:41:56.980 --> 00:42:00.020 Now, again, students are only paying course by course. 00:42:00.020 --> 00:42:10.520 You're not expected to pay the whole lump sum, but rather you're what happens is students are invoiced about I think it's about two or three weeks before each class. 00:42:10.965 --> 00:42:16.485 And then, from the point of being invoiced, they have a thirty day window to pay that balance. 00:42:16.485 --> 00:42:30.950 So so students can pay it, that full amount with when they're invoiced or if they wanted to pay it in smaller increments as long as it's within that thirty day window, they're certainly welcome to do that. 00:42:33.170 --> 00:42:34.310 And let's see. 00:42:34.370 --> 00:42:35.670 We have another question. 00:42:37.825 --> 00:42:40.385 Actually, quite a few, and I wanna make sure I can get to each one. 00:42:40.385 --> 00:42:41.445 These are very good. 00:42:42.865 --> 00:42:45.605 Lisa asked to to you, Amanda. 00:42:46.225 --> 00:42:48.065 Would you please touch on oh, I'm sorry. 00:42:48.065 --> 00:42:49.585 That's I'm looking at the wrong one. 00:42:49.585 --> 00:42:50.645 We have so many. 00:42:52.440 --> 00:42:53.480 I'm just scrolling up. 00:42:53.480 --> 00:42:54.520 Bear with me one moment. 00:42:54.520 --> 00:42:55.720 Let me get to Ariel. 00:42:55.720 --> 00:43:00.540 Ariel, does this program provide a pathway to be able to become a deacon? 00:43:01.320 --> 00:43:05.740 So this would not be a a program related to going into the diaconate. 00:43:08.235 --> 00:43:13.455 If you're part of the, part of a diocese, you'd wanna get in touch with them. 00:43:13.595 --> 00:43:23.790 If this related to, something outside in maybe a nondenominational circle, you'd wanna either way get in touch with your church or within your diocese. 00:43:24.170 --> 00:43:28.510 But rather, this is a very good complimentary program for those that are in the diaconate. 00:43:29.050 --> 00:43:43.095 We do have a lot of deacons that are active in this program because, for so many of them, they work with individuals, and it's it's they wanna gain this additional knowledge on how they can help work with people one on one and guiding them closer to God. 00:43:44.035 --> 00:43:45.655 So that's a great question, Ariel. 00:43:47.875 --> 00:43:48.675 Very good. 00:43:48.675 --> 00:43:49.495 Let's see. 00:43:50.570 --> 00:43:51.850 I'm just scrolling up. 00:43:51.850 --> 00:43:53.710 So many of you are asking great questions. 00:43:58.890 --> 00:43:59.210 Okay. 00:43:59.210 --> 00:44:00.750 We talked about time commitment. 00:44:01.370 --> 00:44:01.770 Okay. 00:44:01.770 --> 00:44:07.595 So, if any other questions are coming up, please feel free to bring them in here. 00:44:07.995 --> 00:44:11.375 Amanda, I'll I'll throw out a couple more questions at you. 00:44:12.555 --> 00:44:14.315 So let's see. 00:44:14.315 --> 00:44:19.860 We talked about the residencies, but how have you been able to make time for this program? 00:44:20.160 --> 00:44:23.840 I mean, you mentioned that you're active as as a Canon lawyer. 00:44:23.840 --> 00:44:30.685 You're active with, CovenantEyes, and now you're getting involved with, spiritual direction. 00:44:30.685 --> 00:44:32.545 You're working with many different directees. 00:44:33.165 --> 00:44:44.385 So just with all of your responsibilities, how did you find making that time to be able to do the program while still having a a lot of other responsibilities as well? 00:44:46.220 --> 00:44:56.080 So, I have to be honest, and I will be very honest that, you know, it has been a challenge completing this program, and I just share that in all transparency. 00:44:56.300 --> 00:45:05.225 And that can be based on my own discipline and and the the heaviness of of daily work, right, and involvement in your parish and diocese. 00:45:06.565 --> 00:45:10.645 But everybody's experience is gonna be a little different. 00:45:10.645 --> 00:45:11.125 You know? 00:45:11.125 --> 00:45:13.365 I have a full time job, and I am active. 00:45:13.365 --> 00:45:18.630 So there have been just a lot of sacrifices involved, with both time. 00:45:18.930 --> 00:45:26.790 And, also, as you guys have seen with finances, you know, everybody comes from a different situation, but there are, sacrifices involved. 00:45:26.930 --> 00:45:33.725 And, that's just the reality, you know, as we discern, certain opportunities in life. 00:45:33.725 --> 00:45:44.900 So at the beginning of the program, I have to say that many of the assignments, just being very practical, were due on Saturdays in the afternoon. 00:45:45.120 --> 00:45:51.920 And then as we got closer to the end of the program, assignments were due by midnight on Tuesday. 00:45:51.920 --> 00:45:59.005 So I just really had to identify times when I could read and complete the the written assignments. 00:45:59.225 --> 00:46:06.845 And, also, many assignments included scheduling Zoom sessions like we talked about with different classmates. 00:46:07.225 --> 00:46:11.720 So that involved just really identifying dates and times that work for everybody. 00:46:11.720 --> 00:46:19.160 So, again, a sacrifice, right, and trying having to be flexible, to be able to be of service to your classmates too. 00:46:19.160 --> 00:46:22.245 So, that's just something to be aware of. 00:46:22.245 --> 00:46:35.145 So it gets hard, but, again, it does come down to just gift of self and persevering in God's will if this is his invitation to you to serve in this way, to give of yourself in this way. 00:46:36.005 --> 00:46:44.790 There were a few classes, again, where I really struggled with getting assignments in in on time, and I know I had other classmates who struggled too. 00:46:44.930 --> 00:46:54.135 And I just have to say that the the professors recognize that we have lives, that we are serving in lots of different roles. 00:46:54.135 --> 00:47:02.155 Again, my classmates were priests, deacons, moms, dads of little kids, big kids. 00:47:02.690 --> 00:47:04.950 You know, just everybody had different vocations. 00:47:05.410 --> 00:47:10.550 And that's, again, one of the the blessings of this program is to be in that environment. 00:47:11.010 --> 00:47:19.205 And another blessing is just how understanding, the professors are, and they really want to set you up for success. 00:47:19.205 --> 00:47:27.465 So they're patient, they're encouraging, and they they help you, achieve make be successful in the program. 00:47:28.085 --> 00:47:29.385 So I hope that helps. 00:47:31.140 --> 00:47:31.640 Yeah. 00:47:31.700 --> 00:47:56.575 And I'll also just to add to that too, I I always tell students if there's any question about the, any sort of commitments that you have and just making this doable to always get in touch with your instructor, to get in touch with the university, instead of making the assumption that it won't work or that you have to bypass this program. 00:47:58.580 --> 00:48:07.380 If there's anything we can do to make it possible for you, as long as it's within our capability, we'll certainly, work with you on that. 00:48:07.380 --> 00:48:14.025 I'll even give a very quick example in that we had a a student who was starting the program last year. 00:48:14.025 --> 00:48:16.285 This was, last fall. 00:48:16.985 --> 00:48:31.730 She was getting ready to start, and she, she reached out to me via email and said, Greg, I think I need to defer because, because I'm taking my daughter to college the same week that that class starts, and I feel like it won't be present. 00:48:32.030 --> 00:48:36.350 And so I reached back out to her, and I I thanked her for letting me know. 00:48:36.350 --> 00:48:40.575 And I I asked her, were you able to get in touch with your instructor about this? 00:48:40.575 --> 00:48:41.855 And she said, no. 00:48:41.855 --> 00:48:44.995 I just figured it probably wouldn't do any good. 00:48:45.135 --> 00:48:46.975 And I said, well, go ahead and get in touch with her. 00:48:46.975 --> 00:48:49.635 If if we need to defer you, it's an option. 00:48:50.015 --> 00:48:55.910 But reach out to her just to let her know, just so that I think it's a good opportunity for you to introduce yourself. 00:48:55.910 --> 00:49:01.430 But, reach out to her, and and there may be something we can do. 00:49:01.430 --> 00:49:02.870 And if not, we'll defer you. 00:49:02.870 --> 00:49:04.470 But, anyway, she did. 00:49:04.470 --> 00:49:11.145 And she reached back out to me, two days later and said, I'm so glad I did that. 00:49:11.145 --> 00:49:17.625 The instructor's giving me, early access to the content, so that I can work ahead. 00:49:17.625 --> 00:49:24.690 And so that way, I can now take my daughter to work, but still having all of my assignments queued up to send to her. 00:49:24.910 --> 00:49:27.150 So, again, it's just one example. 00:49:27.150 --> 00:49:34.190 It's always case by case, but I just wanted to use that as an example that we are happy to help wherever we can. 00:49:34.190 --> 00:49:37.265 And and life does happen. 00:49:37.405 --> 00:49:40.225 But and in some cases, it means making sacrifices. 00:49:41.325 --> 00:49:44.225 But also we're here to do whatever we can to help the student. 00:49:45.645 --> 00:49:46.605 So great. 00:49:46.605 --> 00:49:48.940 And, we have another question. 00:49:48.940 --> 00:49:54.060 I know that we're getting close to the top of the hour, but I wanna make sure we can answer all of these. 00:49:54.060 --> 00:49:57.600 Maybe we can do a quick speed, speed round. 00:49:58.300 --> 00:50:04.845 Lisa asked, as a teacher in k through eighth grade Catholic school, I teach religion to the junior high students. 00:50:05.385 --> 00:50:06.285 I love kids. 00:50:06.505 --> 00:50:11.085 As a spiritual direction director, could we offer direction to kids? 00:50:11.545 --> 00:50:13.565 Amanda, would you like to answer that one? 00:50:15.400 --> 00:50:15.720 Yeah. 00:50:15.720 --> 00:50:16.920 I'd be happy to. 00:50:16.920 --> 00:50:22.200 So I think, again, it's important to differentiate between spiritual direction and spiritual guidance. 00:50:22.200 --> 00:50:22.520 Right? 00:50:22.520 --> 00:50:23.500 Spiritual accompaniment. 00:50:23.640 --> 00:50:25.980 So there's really particular goals. 00:50:26.225 --> 00:50:29.185 And I think you also have to look at the age of reason. 00:50:29.185 --> 00:50:34.245 How old is the child as well as taking into consideration safe environment policies. 00:50:34.385 --> 00:50:38.485 So often, you know, with spiritual direction, it's a one on one relationship. 00:50:38.625 --> 00:50:40.980 So that's really important to consider. 00:50:41.040 --> 00:50:48.560 And, also, the goal of spiritual direction is deeper intimacy and, also, deepening in the theological virtues too. 00:50:48.560 --> 00:50:51.300 So there's a real maturity that takes place. 00:50:51.555 --> 00:51:07.910 So there's just lots of things to consider, but I would recommend to not and to wait to for the age of 18 to make sure that, you know, just everybody is safe and protected and also that the the goals of spiritual direction is is followed. 00:51:08.610 --> 00:51:22.365 And but I know, again, Maria and the staff at DMU could offer you guidance on that, but I would I would encourage, also talking to your safe environment office about policies regarding that as well. 00:51:22.365 --> 00:51:25.185 But, Greg, do you have anything else to add to that? 00:51:25.565 --> 00:51:25.805 Yeah. 00:51:25.805 --> 00:51:28.445 I mean and and I think you answered that perfectly well. 00:51:28.445 --> 00:51:34.625 And and I offering guidance to kids and helping them with their faith formation is extremely important. 00:51:34.765 --> 00:51:42.270 And, Lisa, I I'm so glad that you have this heart for for kids and wanting to be a a shepherd to them. 00:51:42.570 --> 00:51:45.230 I mean, that's really the right attitude to have. 00:51:45.690 --> 00:51:52.995 And like Amanda mentioned, it's really sort of a it's really distinguishing the different types of ministries that are out there. 00:51:53.455 --> 00:52:17.600 And one thing I would certainly suggest doing is get in touch with your diocese, regarding spiritual direction and maybe even just ask them point blank point point blank, excuse me, what age they would suggest you work with someone as far as how will the directory should be in order for them to to work with you as the director. 00:52:18.460 --> 00:52:23.795 I always tell students, get in touch with your diocese, ask them about their criteria. 00:52:25.135 --> 00:52:31.855 They have this sort of thing prepared to answer, and, I would certainly suggest doing that. 00:52:31.855 --> 00:52:34.915 But I think Amanda answered it perfectly well. 00:52:35.135 --> 00:52:42.280 And, Lisa, I I just to highlight, I really appreciate the fact that you're you're looking at the formation for for the youth as well. 00:52:42.280 --> 00:52:43.260 That's very important. 00:52:45.320 --> 00:52:45.800 Let's see. 00:52:45.800 --> 00:52:47.660 And we have a couple other questions. 00:52:47.720 --> 00:52:50.425 Laura asked, describe assignments. 00:52:50.885 --> 00:52:53.545 Will we be will we be writing papers? 00:52:53.845 --> 00:52:59.385 If so, are they analyses, reflections, reports, book reviews, etcetera? 00:53:00.245 --> 00:53:03.225 Amanda, maybe you can answer a little bit of that for her. 00:53:04.110 --> 00:53:04.590 Yeah. 00:53:04.590 --> 00:53:05.790 Laura, great question. 00:53:05.790 --> 00:53:07.950 It's always nice to know what you're getting into. 00:53:07.950 --> 00:53:08.450 Right? 00:53:09.390 --> 00:53:20.705 So a lot involves reading and also sharing insights from the reading to your classmates and responding to what your classmates insights have been. 00:53:20.705 --> 00:53:23.025 So that's at the beginning of the the program. 00:53:23.025 --> 00:53:24.805 I would say that's a lot of that. 00:53:25.105 --> 00:53:30.645 Then it goes into Zoom sessions with your classmates and doing vignettes. 00:53:31.190 --> 00:53:58.005 So practicing what you've been learning through the readings and through the video instructions, and then reflecting on those Zoom sessions that you've done with your classmates and responding to questions that have been posed to you about those Zoom calls and, very particular questions to get you to think deeper and, how you're growing, what your questions are, where you're struggling. 00:53:58.430 --> 00:54:00.370 So a lot has to do with reflection. 00:54:00.430 --> 00:54:02.370 There's also prayer journaling. 00:54:02.830 --> 00:54:06.210 There's also encouragement to be meeting with your own spiritual director. 00:54:06.830 --> 00:54:15.135 None of that, of course, is shared, you know, but there's the encouragement to be doing that as along with the program itself. 00:54:15.515 --> 00:54:16.735 And there are papers. 00:54:16.795 --> 00:54:17.115 Yeah. 00:54:17.115 --> 00:54:20.975 So at the end of the courses, there are, reflection papers. 00:54:21.435 --> 00:54:33.030 Again, not big theses, PCs, I think is how you'd say that you would be expected to write, but you're certainly summarizing what you have learned and where you're at spiritually. 00:54:33.810 --> 00:54:43.405 Because, again, a lot of this is about your own growth through the program and where where you're at as a human person in relationship with God. 00:54:43.945 --> 00:54:44.265 Yeah. 00:54:44.265 --> 00:54:45.005 Very good. 00:54:45.465 --> 00:54:46.665 You also asked a question. 00:54:46.665 --> 00:54:48.285 I can answer that very quickly. 00:54:48.505 --> 00:55:00.330 You said, is there a point person we can be in touch with to help guide us in our making the decisions and helping us, helping this to be a reality based in getting to this goal? 00:55:00.550 --> 00:55:07.875 So, you know, certainly, as far as, discernment, if you're still praying about this, continue doing it. 00:55:07.955 --> 00:55:12.935 The first three courses are are also designed to help folks who are still in their discernment phase. 00:55:14.195 --> 00:55:20.695 So and we still have students that enter into this program as they're trying to navigate the right ministry for them. 00:55:21.130 --> 00:55:25.230 And the fruits of those programs certainly overlap with many different ministries as well. 00:55:25.450 --> 00:55:28.730 But as far as the enrollment process, my this would be me. 00:55:28.730 --> 00:55:30.170 You would you would be in touch with me. 00:55:30.170 --> 00:55:31.390 I'm here to help you. 00:55:32.090 --> 00:55:34.270 My contact information is on the screen. 00:55:34.490 --> 00:55:40.215 Feel free to take a picture of it or, screen screen grab it if you can. 00:55:40.775 --> 00:55:41.915 But it's right here. 00:55:42.215 --> 00:55:57.970 And, you know, again, what I'd like to do for each of you is if this is something that you're looking into, I wanna have a one on one conversation with you just so I can get to know you as a student, to learn about what you're looking for in a program, and to answer all of your questions. 00:55:57.970 --> 00:56:03.765 And then if you decide that you'd like to apply, I'll help you out through throughout the entire process. 00:56:04.785 --> 00:56:05.665 I love doing that. 00:56:05.665 --> 00:56:09.925 I love making this a a achievable goal for students. 00:56:10.545 --> 00:56:15.685 And, again, I mean, we have a start date coming up, by the way, on August 23. 00:56:15.960 --> 00:56:19.560 That's gonna be the start of our fall term, and there's still room. 00:56:19.560 --> 00:56:21.020 We're still enrolling students. 00:56:21.320 --> 00:56:23.080 We only have a few more interviews. 00:56:23.080 --> 00:56:32.935 So if you're looking into this and you'd like to start in the fall, now would be your time to put your your foot on the gas a little bit harder, but we can make this possible. 00:56:33.555 --> 00:56:35.315 So feel free to contact me. 00:56:35.315 --> 00:56:36.595 You're welcome to email me. 00:56:36.595 --> 00:56:37.735 You can call me. 00:56:37.955 --> 00:56:40.275 You can text me, whatever works for you. 00:56:40.595 --> 00:56:44.120 And I'd love to, again, have that conversation with you. 00:56:44.500 --> 00:56:46.740 I think that should probably bring us to the end. 00:56:46.740 --> 00:56:50.900 Amanda, anything that you'd like to add to just to share with the students? 00:56:50.900 --> 00:56:54.280 Anything you'd like to say to them as we have them here? 00:56:55.595 --> 00:56:55.915 No. 00:56:55.915 --> 00:57:04.975 I just, you know, I wanna thank you for your time, for your interest in serving the church in this way, for your love for God and love for his people. 00:57:05.035 --> 00:57:17.900 And, again, you know, lean into Greg, lean into the materials that really articulate well what this program is, and I just encourage you to bring, joining the certificate program to discernment. 00:57:17.900 --> 00:57:20.700 And don't be afraid to ask God what he desires for you. 00:57:20.700 --> 00:57:25.265 Just be bold in your prayers and be upfront about what what you're seeking. 00:57:25.325 --> 00:57:28.465 So God bless all of you and and your next steps. 00:57:29.725 --> 00:57:30.125 Yeah. 00:57:30.125 --> 00:57:30.625 Excellent. 00:57:30.925 --> 00:57:33.265 Amanda, thank you so much for being with us. 00:57:34.223 --> 00:57:34.703 Absolutely. 00:57:34.703 --> 00:57:35.603 Thank you, Greg. 00:57:35.663 --> 00:57:36.063 Alright. 00:57:36.063 --> 00:57:37.503 Thank you all for being here. 00:57:37.503 --> 00:57:38.143 God bless. 00:57:38.143 --> 00:57:38.803 Take care.