Critical Thresholds of Formation

Description: This class introduces a historically rooted framework for understanding the dynamics and thresholds for spiritual growth toward contemplative union with God.

Outcomes: Having fully engaged with this class, students will be able to (1) distinguish the successive stages of spiritual formation toward union, including their dynamics and their markers; (2) relate critical thresholds to one's own progress in prayer.

Format: A self-paced “eight-week” class consisting of eleven 10- to 30-minute instructional videos, paired with integrative-reflective writing assignments.

Supplementary reading: Francis Kelly Nemeck and Marie Theresa Coombs, Contemplation, Wipf & Stock, 2001, $21.00, 163 pp. assigned.