Traditions of Spiritual Guidance

This program has already taken place this spring. We leave this information so you can see the kinds of programs we offer.

What ancient truths can we find in the old Celtic teachings about Anamchara, the Celtic soul friend, and in the poetry of Rumi and other Sufi mystics? What guidance might we receive from shamanism and Native American vision quests and from the kahunas or spiritual healers of the Hawaiian tribes? In the midst of our contemporary world and times, this series explores the rich spiritual resources found in old teachings and traditions from the history of humankind. Group reflection and discussion, as well as suggested readings for each session, will enrich our exploration.

Tuesday, February 16 - The Ancient Celts and the Anamchara
We’ll explore the origins of the Celtic soul friend, examining the influence of the pagan druids and druidesses along with the desert elders. Special focus will be upon early Christian spirituality as found in the lives of Sts. Patrick, Brigit, and Columcille.

Tuesday, February 23 - Islam and the Sufi Mystics
A brief look at mysticism in various world spiritual traditions, especially among the Islamic Sufis. The life and works of the Sufi poet Rumi will illuminate our exploration of the poet as mystic and guide.

Tuesday, March 2 - Native American Spirituality and Shamans
We’ll consider numerous expressions of spirituality found among the natives of North America, including the significance of vision quests, and the tribal roles of the shaman or medicine person. The story of Black Elk will help us gain insight into shamanism for today.

Tuesday, March 9 - Hawaiian Spirituality and the Kahuna
Native Hawaiians have a long history of guidance and healing through kahunas, the spiritual healers of the tribes. Even though Christian missionaries attempted to annihilate this tradition, it never died out completely and is experiencing a re-emergence today in Hawaii.

Facilitator: Ed Sellner, professor of pastoral theology and spirituality at Saint Catherine University, and author of ten books, the most recent, Finding the Monk Within (Paulist Press, 2008). Ed, who started the spiritual direction program at Saint Catherine University, has been teaching and writing about spiritual guides for over thirty years. He is presently writing on a book on the topic.

WHEN: Tuesdays, February 16, 23, March 2, and 9, 7-9 pm

COST: $85