Being Heard Town Hall
Nov
17
2:00 PM14:00

Being Heard Town Hall

  • First Community North - Grace Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Let’s gather and share our reactions to the November election in small groups facilitated by experienced spiritual directors. Prepare to be heard.


These are divisive times. But do they need to be? As people of faith, we can take the lead in engaging with others when we don’t see eye to eye… and doing so with respect and civility.

While we believe in the separation of church and state, we also believe that elections are matters of faith. We can hold both of these truths.

The Interfaith Association of Central Ohio, The Spiritual Life and learning Center and The Spirituality Network are working together to help us prepare for the upcoming November election and learning how to live with the results.

REGISTER HERE

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SoulCollage® Harvesting Gratitude
Nov
23
8:45 AM08:45

SoulCollage® Harvesting Gratitude

  • First Congregational Church - Parish Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

$50 - registration*

* limited scholarships available, inquire with Saralise by email at sara.ward54@gmail.com)

This will be an extended card making time (browsing images, opening circle, card-making, individual processing…) with an added time of guided card reading and witnessing in small groups that will offer you new methods to use on your own as you continue to build your deck and interact with your cards.

We will also offer an opportunity to learn more about the different Suits that make up your SoulCollage® Deck (Transpersonal, Committee, Community, Council, Companions) and to give voice to cards that may have been quiet up until now.

Led by Saralise Ward and Heather Monkmeyer

All supplies and materials will be provided along with hot coffee, cocoa, tea, and water. Bring your own water bottle/coffee mug and a snack to share if you are able. Lunch break when you need it - bring your own lunch (refrigeration available) or walk to one of the nearby restaurants.

Registration Deadline - Wednesday, November 20th

Accessible free parking available in First Congregational Church parking lot.

REGISTER HERE

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Open House and Book Signing
Dec
5
6:00 PM18:00

Open House and Book Signing

December is often a time to gather with friends. The staff of the Spirituality Network warmly invite you to join us Thursday evening, December 5 from 6:00-8:00 at the Network offices for fellowship and food.

This year, we have the added treat of helping to launch Wellstreams alum Dave Long-Higgins' new book. Titled, Yes, Love Thank You, it features 66 of his prayers and his original photography. Dave will be signing copies at the open house.

This special book would make a beautiful holiday gift for those you love.

REGISTER HERE

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Spiritual Direction Deep Dive with Kevin Anderson
Dec
6
6:00 PM18:00

Spiritual Direction Deep Dive with Kevin Anderson

  • First Congregational Church UCC - Parish Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Psychologist and writer Kevin Anderson’s created the nested meditation form. He integrates psychology and spirituality in both his healing work with people and his search for wisdom in words. His first collection of nested meditations, Divinity in Disguise, introduced this new writing form and was named a best spiritual book of 2003 by Spirituality & Health. Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat of spiritualityandpractice.com have called Anderson’s nested meditations “superb examples of everyday spirituality.” Richard Rohr (author of What the Mystics Know and The Naked Now) “Kevin Anderson puts together what needs to be put together—prepared mind, compassionate heart, and observant eyes!”

Join us as Kevin leads us in a journey of exploration.

On Friday, December 6, Kevin will offer a performance of several of his nested meditations, followed by an exploration of what makes nested meditations work and how to write them. We’ll also have time to practice writing a simple nested meditation.

On Saturday, December 7, Kevin offers:

  • A view of therapy and spiritual direction via his Three Rivers Metaphor, which provides different windows into whole person

  • 10 healing elements in an “I-thou Encounter” in therapy or spiritual direction

  • How to make the work memorable: the deep processing theory of memory

  • Beyond words: creating a memorable and healing experience through “Enactments”

    • exploring a variety of in-session tools that go beyond talking

  • Suited best for spiritual directors and spiritual directors-in-training, but all are welcome.

Suggested donation levels:
$150 - Public
$120 - SDAO members
$100 - Wellstream students

REGISTER HERE

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Sound Journey
Dec
7
6:45 PM18:45

Sound Journey

For those participating in the drum-making workshop, the fee is $25

This is a deeply immersive shamanic journey using a 28" Sioux Ceremonial Drum, 26" "Paiste" Sound Creation Gong, 47" Buffalo Drum, tubular bells and Solfeggio Chimes, in addition to other traditional instruments.

Participants provide their own yoga mat, blanket, or anything they need to be comfortable. Sound bathing (sometimes called "sound meditation" or "sound therapy") is the practice of mindfully listening to different sounds that help relax the body and mind.

Sound baths provide an immersive, full body listening experience that can bring balance, relaxation, and a sense of calm to your whole being. 

This session will be led by Ool and Kellie Pardi, founders of Strongheart Drum Medicine, Fenton, MI. For this immersive shamanic journey, they will use a 28” Sioux Ceremonial Drum, 26” Paiste Sound Creation Gong, 47” Buffalo Drum, tubular bells, and Solfeggio Chimes in addition to other traditional instruments.

Contact: Joyce Phelps at joycequest@hotmail.com

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Primal Beat: A Drumming Experience with Joyce Phelps
Jan
18
11:00 AM11:00

Primal Beat: A Drumming Experience with Joyce Phelps

  • First Congregational Church - Parish Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Did you know… drumming:

  • Reduces tension, anxiety, and stress

  • Helps control chronic pain

  • Boosts the immune system

  • Alleviates depression

  • Produces deeper self-awareness by inducing synchronous brain activity

  • Accesses the entire brain

  • Induces natural altered states of consciousness

  • Creates a sense of connectedness with self and others

  • Helps us to be in resonance with the natural rhythms of life

  • Provides a medium for individual self-realization

  • And is a heck of a lot of fun!

Join us for this special afternoon event where Joyce Phelps helps us find our voice with confidence. We will build a cohesive, diverse community through the power of deep listening. No experience necessary!

Space is limited. All materials provided.

Suggested donation levels:
$40 - Public
$32 - SDAO members
$25 - Wellstream students

REGISTER HERE

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Living with Gratitude
Jan
25
9:00 AM09:00

Living with Gratitude

  • First Community North - Grace Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Mark Hiltz will help us examine why gratitude is so important. We’ll follow the presentation with table discussions that lead to commitments.


These are divisive times. But do they need to be? As people of faith, we can take the lead in engaging with others when we don’t see eye to eye… and doing so with respect and civility.

While we believe in the separation of church and state, we also believe that elections are matters of faith. We can hold both of these truths.

The Interfaith Association of Central Ohio, The Spiritual Life and learning Center and The Spirituality Network are working together to help us prepare for the upcoming November election and learning how to live with the results.

REGISTER HERE

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Visio Divina at the Columbus Art Museum - Save the Date
Feb
13
6:00 PM18:00

Visio Divina at the Columbus Art Museum - Save the Date

Visio Divina is an ancient form of prayer. It continues to be a powerful method of meditation. Art becomes the sacrament that opens our hearts to the indwelling of the Divine. The visible makes the invisible present in a very real way.

Any piece of art can be the subject of reflection, not necessarily just religious art. No experience with art is needed.

Museum docent, Bernard Palchick and Wellstreams graduate, Lisa Palchick will lead us through an immersive experience of selected pieces from the Columbus Museum of Art’s collection, as well as selected pieces from their own collection.

$40 public / $32 SDAO / $25 student

REGISTER HERE

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Spiritual Directors: Board Game Saturday
Mar
22
6:30 PM18:30

Spiritual Directors: Board Game Saturday

In person
Free!

Join your fellow spiritual director board game buffs as we gather to play board games at First Congregational Church. We will have a variety of games ready to play, snacks to share, and maybe a little bit of competitive spirit thrown in to spice things up. RSVP is required by March 12th.

Contact Christine Hiester (christinehiester73@gmail.com) or Forrest Miller (rachaelmiller0@gmail.com) to sign up. 

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Labyrinth Walk for Peace & Unity
Nov
4
6:00 PM18:00

Labyrinth Walk for Peace & Unity

  • Oxford Community Arts Center, Brandt Ballroom (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

We live in a time of change and uncertainty. We sometimes hold a distrust of those different from us. Sometimes it feels like “us and them”. We CAN shift away from that way of thinking and facilitate peace.

The labyrinth can be a tool to bring people together. We bring all our differences into a shared path. We walk our individual paths in life. Others walk their paths. Yet, we walk those paths together in community. In the labyrinth, we walk together in unity.

The labyrinth is different from a maze in that it follows a specified pattern of ancient geometry to enter, and then exits in the reverse order after reaching the center. Walking a labyrinth is usually done in silence and is used as a time for prayer, reflection, or contemplation.

The intention for this labyrinth experience (walk) is for peace and unity. Peace and unity in our individual minds and hearts. Peace and unity in our families, our community, our country and our world.

No experience is necessary. A brief “how-to” will be given prior to the experience. Hand-held labyrinths will be provided for those with mobility concerns.

This is a one-time experience walking a Chartres replica on canvas in the Brant Ballroom.

Cost: $15

REGISTER HERE

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Creative Deconstruction
Nov
1
to Nov 2

Creative Deconstruction

  • First Community Church North (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Spiritual Life & Learning center is excited to announce its first Spiritual Searcher event of the program year, a visit from the NakedPastor, David Hayward.

Friday, November 1
Reception and Art Exhibit
6:30-8:30 pm

Saturday, November 2
Presentation and Q & A
9:30 am-12:30 pm

On Friday, November 1 they host a ticketed reception catered by Steven’s Catering, where we will see pieces of David’s art work, have time to chat with David, and hear a sneak preview of his presentation for Saturday. Pre-registered guests will also receive a copy of his latest book Flip It Like This that David is happy to autograph for you. He is also bringing some of his most popular prints and additional books to the event that will be available for purchase.

On Saturday November 2, David will return for a presentation and question and answer session entitled “Creative Deconstruction”.

This is a free event, and while registration is not required, it is appreciated, and registrants are offered an opportunity to submit a question to David that he may get to answer on Saturday.

Rev. Seth Stearns, joined by Alejandro Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Spirituality Network, had an opportunity to talk to David this week and their entire conversation on the latest episode of Awakening Lives.

REGISTER NOW!

Link for Awakening Lives

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SDAO Mtg:  Self-Care/Self-Love with Energy and Sound
Oct
26
9:00 AM09:00

SDAO Mtg: Self-Care/Self-Love with Energy and Sound

  • Martin De Porres Center, On the campus of Ohio Dominican (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Learn and experience holistic self-care techniques in this 2-hour Energy and Sound Healing experience with Wellness Coach Melinda VanKirk, and Sound Healer Samantha Petroff. In this workshop you will:

  • Discuss the importance of Self-care as a Spiritual Director

  • Design a simple, daily self-care ritual that works for you

  • Learn and practice self-care with simple, easy movements to move your energy and soothe your nervous system

  • Discuss Reiki as a means of self-care, and practice a simple, guided meditation to clear and protect your energy with Reiki Healing

  • Indulge in a healing Sound Bath to help clear your energy and leave you in a state of pure relaxation

Free to SDAO members Not a member of SDAO:  $25.
For your own comfort you may wish to bring your yoga mat or blanket.

REGISTER HERE


Our leaders for this program are Melinda VanKirk and Samantha Petroff:

Melinda is passionate about helping you cultivate your total wellbeing - following the ancient wisdom of yoga and Ayurveda, combined with energy healing and manifestation practices.  She is a certified Spiritual Life Coach, Yoga Health Coach, Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master Teacher, and Artist.  As an empath and avid yogi, Melinda promotes wellbeing through spiritual connection, self-love, and self-care.  You can find Melinda locally at Balancing Owl Yoga for a yoga class or Reiki session, or online at www.litlotus.me to learn more about her coaching services.


Samantha Petroff is an Usui Reiki Master and has been using sound as a healing tool for more than 20 years.  She is set to finish her Master Level sound healing training by the end of 2025.  Sound and vibrational healing is a non-invasive way to bring your nervous system into a more relaxed state.  By taking us out of fight or flight mode our bodies are able to heal in profound ways.  The goal of every session is to hold space for a client to find their balance and facilitate healing.  Samantha is also the Business Manager at The Reiki Center in Grandview representing 30+ practitioners and helping clients find the right modalities to assist them on their healing journey.  

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Issues Forum - Zoom
Oct
10
6:00 PM18:00

Issues Forum - Zoom

A facilitated, balanced, faith perspective on the issues on the Ohio ballot. We’ll also cover voting basics so that your vote counts.


These are divisive times. But do they need to be? As people of faith, we can take the lead in engaging with others when we don’t see eye to eye… and doing so with respect and civility.

While we believe in the separation of church and state, we also believe that elections are matters of faith. We can hold both of these truths.

The Interfaith Association of Central Ohio, The Spiritual Life and learning Center and The Spirituality Network are working together to help us prepare for the upcoming November election and learning how to live with the results.

REGISTER HERE

View Event →
SoulCollage® Mini Retreat - Saturday
Sep
28
8:45 AM08:45

SoulCollage® Mini Retreat - Saturday

  • First Congregational Church - Fellowship Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Connecting more deeply with your cards through understanding the Suits and how they speak to your inner landscape.

You are invited to join us on:

This will be similar to a typical SoulCollage® Workshop day (browsing images, opening circle, card-making, individual processing…) with an added time of guided card reading and witnessing that will offer you new methods to use on your own as you continue to build your deck and interact with your cards.

*Gathering and browsing images begins at 8:45 am, opening circle 9:00 am.

Led by Saralise Ward and Heather Monkmeyer

$55 (Saturday only), limited scholarships available, inquire with Saralise by email at sara.ward54@gmail.com

All supplies and materials will be provided along with hot coffee, cocoa, tea, and water. Bring your own water bottle/coffee mug.

12:00 - 12:45pm: Lunch break - bring your own lunch or walk to one of the nearby restaurants.

Registration Deadline - Wednesday, September 25th
Space is limited so register early.
**May bring your own lunch and/or please bring a snack to share if you are able.

Accessible free parking available in First Congregational Church parking lot.

REGISTER HERE

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SoulCollage® Mini Retreat - Friday night
Sep
27
5:30 PM17:30

SoulCollage® Mini Retreat - Friday night

  • First Congregational Church - Fellowship Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Connecting more deeply with your cards through understanding the Suits and how they speak to your inner landscape.

You are invited to join us on:

Friday, September 27th - 5:30* - 8:30 pm ($35 - registration)

This will be a time to learn more about the different Suits that make up your SoulCollage® Deck (Transpersonal, Committee, Community, Council, Companions) and to give voice to cards that may have been quiet up until now. You will have time to interact with your own cards in various settings as you consider what they have to offer you.

*Please bring at least 10 cards to the session, and you may bring ALL of your cards. Note: No card-making will occur on Friday night.

Saturday, September 28th - 8:45 am* - 3:00 pm ($55 - registration)

This will be similar to a typical SoulCollage® Workshop day (browsing images, opening circle, card-making, individual processing…) with an added time of guided card reading and witnessing that will offer you new methods to use on your own as you continue to build your deck and interact with your cards.

*Gathering and browsing images begins at 8:45 am, opening circle 9:00 am.

Led by Saralise Ward and Heather Monkmeyer

Total Cost - $90, please register individually for each day (limited scholarships available, inquire with Saralise by email at sara.ward54@gmail.com)

All supplies and materials will be provided along with hot coffee, cocoa, tea, and water. Bring your own water bottle/coffee mug.

12:00 - 12:45pm: Lunch break - bring your own lunch or walk to one of the nearby restaurants.

Registration Deadline - Wednesday, September 25th
Space is limited so register early.
**May bring your own lunch and/or please bring a snack to share if you are able.

Accessible free parking available in First Congregational Church parking lot.

REGISTER HERE

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The Wild Edge of Sorrow Book Study - Zoom
Sep
26
6:00 PM18:00

The Wild Edge of Sorrow Book Study - Zoom

In his 5 gates of grief, psychotherapist Francis Weller explores how we move through the waters of grief and loss in a culture so fundamentally detached from the needs of the soul.

Profoundly moving, beautifully written, this book is a balm for the soul and a necessary salve for moving together through difficult times. Grounded in ritual and connection, The Wild Edge of Sorrow welcomes each grief with care and attention, opening us to the feelings, experiences, and sacred knowledge that connect us to each other and ultimately make us whole.

Join us for this book study/review. Purchase of the book is recommended but not required.

REGISTER HERE

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Leaning In: Learning to Listen Workshop
Sep
14
9:00 AM09:00

Leaning In: Learning to Listen Workshop

  • First Congregational Church - Parish Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

In partnership with the Spiritual Life and Learning Center (SL&LC) and the Interfaith Association of Central Ohio (IACO): Join us for this interactive workshop where we learn how to listen to each other, even when we hold strongly differing opinions.


These are divisive times. But do they need to be? As people of faith, we can take the lead in engaging with others when we don’t see eye to eye… and doing so with respect and civility.

While we believe in the separation of church and state, we also believe that elections are matters of faith. We can hold both of these truths.

The Interfaith Association of Central Ohio, The Spiritual Life and learning Center and The Spirituality Network are working together to help us prepare for the upcoming November election and learning how to live with the results.

REGISTER HERE

View Event →
Silent Directed Retreat
Jul
27
to Aug 2

Silent Directed Retreat

  • Our Lady of the Pines Retreat Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Come away to a sacred space where all are invited to experience the presence of God through prayer, silence and solitude.  Other than an opening ritual, this retreat offers contemplative spaciousness where the daily rhythm consists of meals together in a silent atmosphere and spiritual direction sessions to share and explore the invitation of Spirit.

Your silent directed retreat offers you:

  • A week of observing silence

  • A daily rhythm that invites slowing down, rest, and deepening prayer

  • One hour each day with an experienced spiritual director to process your experience

Life questions that may lead you to consider this retreat:

  • Are you seeking a deeper connection with yourself and God?

  • Are you seeking a time for ongoing renewal, tending to your heart and spirit?

  • Are you facing an important decision and desiring discernment for the next step?

Comments from past retreatants:

God is constantly descending in the world. This retreat allows me to silence, and through that, increase the presence of the Divine in all things and all people. ~ Diane

I found this retreat to be so much more life-giving and full of grace than other “community” retreats because in the end, I was companioned on the journey to love myself versus being loved by others. I feel loved in ways I know will always be available to me. ~ Robin

What an incredible experience of joy, contentment, growth and deepening connection to the Divine. ~ Betty

Cost includes accommodations, meals and daily spiritual direction. Your private room reservation is $1050*, a $250 non-refundable deposit secures your reservation. Full payment is due by June 1.  (Financial assistance may be available.) 
Space is limited and registrations are made in order received.

*50% refund for cancellations before July 1. After July 1, we are unable to offer refund. CANCELLATION Policy

Upon registration, watch for an email confirmation. If you have any questions, or concerns, please contact Debbie Brenneman

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED


Our Lady of the Pines is nestled in 63 acres of pine forest.  Amenities include a prayer labyrinth, a winding walk through the Stations of the Cross, creative art room, library, and for an additional fee, an on-sight massage is available per reservation.  Visit Our Lady of the Pines @ www.pinesretreat.org.

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SDAO Mtg: Embracing Authenticity: Navigating Beyond Comfort - Zoom
Jul
22
7:00 PM19:00

SDAO Mtg: Embracing Authenticity: Navigating Beyond Comfort - Zoom

Have you ever found yourself challenged by unfamiliar territory during a spiritual direction session? Felt caught off guard or questioned your adequacy as a companion? These moments are not uncommon for those who serve as spiritual directors. But where do we turn with our unanswered questions and emotions? Perhaps together, we can uncover insights to assist one another.

In our upcoming July gathering, Mary Anne Evans will graciously share her journey. After over thirteen years as a spiritual director and companioning numerous individuals, she embarked on a reflective pause, contemplating how to embrace authenticity and uniqueness more deeply. A graduate of Wellstreams, Mary Anne now intertwines spiritual direction with mentorship. She is an accomplished retreat and workshop facilitator and the author of several insightful books, including "her memoir" I LV ME: A Spiritual Journey of Healing. Above all, Mary Anne is a profoundly spiritual individual with a passion for exploring life's profound questions, continually seeking, reaching, and growing.

Our discussion will be presented in an interview format, allowing ample time for your questions and participation. We look forward to connecting with you during this enriching experience!

Register here.

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Music: The Language of the Soul 2024 Event
Jun
28
7:00 PM19:00

Music: The Language of the Soul 2024 Event

We invite you to attend this evening featuring the gifts and talents of friends of the Spirituality Network as we enjoy contemplative music and poems in a peaceful setting.
 
Proceeds will go toward the Noreen Malone OP Compassion Fund, which enables us to offer our rich programming to those without the ability to pay.

Registration is closed.

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Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom
May
17
10:00 AM10:00

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom and you’ll receive a link once you’ve signed up).

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JEDI Series: Setting a Longer Table - Zoom
May
16
6:30 PM18:30

JEDI Series: Setting a Longer Table - Zoom

For those of us who are blessed with plenty, our opportunity is to build a longer table, not a taller fence. That’s easier said than done when we’re engaging with people who are different than us and may have different values and cultures.

Join us, with special guest, Rhonda Burns, associate vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, Nationwide, as we explore the skills needed to build a truly inclusive culture.

This will be a practical, hands-on workshop that will provide you with ways to be more open and welcoming.

Registration is closed.

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Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom
May
13
3:00 PM15:00

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom and you’ll receive a link once you’ve signed up).

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Staying in the Moment
May
11
9:00 AM09:00

Staying in the Moment

Socio-drama is a method by which a group of individuals select and spontaneously enact a specific social situation common to their experience. Socio-drama provides an engaging forum for learning and deepening relationships in a group. It is also effective in clarifying values, developing social skills, solving problems, diagnosing an organization’s core barriers to success, developing and rehearsing action plans or improving personal effectiveness and awareness.

This workshop will be a morning of playful engagement with one another and learning more about the challenges of effective spiritual direction. We will use the role of spiritual director as a focus for consideration of this learning method. Those in training to be spiritual directors and those who wish to be more present should also attend.

Our workshop will be facilitated by Rev. John Cramton, a hospice chaplain with Ohio Health and a certified socio-drama leader. John was trained at Temple University and has experience leading socio-drama workshops in Philadelphia and Columbus.

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Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom
May
8
6:30 PM18:30

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom and you’ll receive a link once you’ve signed up).

View Event →
SDAO Mtg -  Building Your Spiritual Direction Practice
Apr
27
9:00 AM09:00

SDAO Mtg - Building Your Spiritual Direction Practice

There is so much to consider when you’re setting up your spiritual direction practice… even if it’s been years since you’ve done so.

At our April 27 SDAO event, we’ll have a panel discussion where we discuss what you need to know. And because we believe in the wisdom of the group, we plan to make this an interactive dialogue with all who are attending so you can share what has been working for you.
 
Based on our brief survey, the top things you want to know about:

  • ways to find directees

  • bookkeeping and accounting practicess

  • marketing yourself and your practice

  • setting appropriate expectations for yourself

  • pricing your services

  • managing your time and calendar

 Come! Be in community with your sibling spiritual directors. Let us support and encourage one another as we continue to serve our community.

Register here

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Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom
Apr
15
3:00 PM15:00

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom and you’ll receive a link once you’ve signed up).

View Event →
Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom
Apr
12
10:00 AM10:00

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom and you’ll receive a link once you’ve signed up).

View Event →
Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom
Apr
11
6:30 PM18:30

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions - Zoom

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom and you’ll receive a link once you’ve signed up).

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Attachment Styles: The Impact on Relationships
Mar
23
9:00 AM09:00

Attachment Styles: The Impact on Relationships

Attachment Styles impact relationships throughout the lifespan. The four basic styles are secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized. A person’s Attachment Style is heavily impacted by their early years but can and does change over a lifetime. 

Having an awareness of your own style allows you to be more intentional in your interactions with others. Considering another’s style provides some insight both into that person and into the interactions between you and them.

This workshop will begin with a resource packet for you to review before we meet including recommendations about attachment quizzes available online. You will be encouraged to consider both your primary style and secondary tendencies. We will cover signs in others and ways to react if someone is either not compatible with you or is very unstable. Attachment styles can change – we will look at the latest research regarding how to support positive change.

After the two hour in-person workshop there will be an additional resource package available to you for further exploration.

This workshop is suitable for all audiences, but especially appropriate for spiritual directors and spiritual directors in training.

Please share with friends and family who might benefit from this experience.

PUBLIC: To register click here.

SDAO Members: To register click here.


Our presenter

Laura Gaines has twenty years’ experience as a child and adolescent mental health clinician and Crisis Text Line volunteer working with children, adults and professionals to improve communication and mental well-being. She has trained professionals and parents for over 30 years regarding mental health, human development, ethics, trauma informed care, and resilience. Her goal is to empower others to overcome challenges and to build strengths so that they can pursue their goals. Her training style is lively, evidence based and interactive. As a former child therapist, she incorporates play/art in all workshops. Participants will go home with new ideas to try in their day-to-day life and work.

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Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions
Feb
29
6:30 PM18:30

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom).

View Event →
Pathways to the Interior - SoulCollage© Walking the Labyrinth
Feb
24
8:45 AM08:45

Pathways to the Interior - SoulCollage© Walking the Labyrinth

You are invited to join us to explore two congruent spiritual practices- both Pathways to the Interior: SoulCollage© and Walking the Labyrinth

*Gathering and browsing images begins at 8:45 am, opening circle 9:00 am.

Led by Saralise Ward and Heather Monkmeyer

Cost - $50, student/scholarships available $30

All supplies and materials provided along with Hot coffee, cocoa, tea, water, bring your own water bottle

Registration is closed

**May bring your own lunch and/or please bring a snack to share if you are able.

Accessible free parking available in First Congregational Church parking lot

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Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions
Feb
23
10:00 AM10:00

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom).

View Event →
Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions
Feb
19
3:00 PM15:00

Wellstreams Cohort 2027 - Info Sessions

We invite you to consider joining the Wellstreams first year experience of spiritual awakening in deep community. This one-year program is designed for anyone who is seeking:

  • A more contemplative life

  • Greater freedom to bring more compassion to the world

  • To nurture healthier personal and professional relationships based on a holistic view of self

  • Enhanced skills for empathetic listening, discernment, and community building

  • Deepened expressions of spirituality

  • Explore my relationship with the divine, self, others, and the world

  • Seeing broadly and feeling deeply

  • Discernment for the practicum in spiritual companioning

While this is a prerequisite for the second phase of Wellstreams, participants are encouraged to join this whether or not they are considering spiritual companioning.

If you would like to learn more about this program, please sign up for one of our informational sessions (all are offered via Zoom).

View Event →
Spiritual Directors: Board Game Saturday
Feb
17
2:00 PM14:00

Spiritual Directors: Board Game Saturday

In person
Free!

Join your fellow spiritual director board game buffs as we gather to play board games at First Congregational Church. We will have a variety of games ready to play, snacks to share, and maybe a little bit of competitive spirit thrown in to spice things up. RSVP is required by February 10th.

Contact Christine Hiester (christinehiester73@gmail.com) or Rachael Miller (rachaelmiller0@gmail.com) to sign up. 

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JEDI Series: Embracing Diversity via Zoom
Feb
12
6:30 PM18:30

JEDI Series: Embracing Diversity via Zoom

In these polarized times, "diversity" is either seen as the hope for the future or a dirty word. Join us for the next in our Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI) series where Sherrice Thomas from the Columbus Chamber of Commerce shares her views on why it's important to embrace diversity, and to go beyond finding what we have in common with one another.

As part of this interactive workshop, we'll have an opportunity to explore the various dimensions of our diversity and the intersectionality that often exists.

To register click here.


Our presenter

Sherrice Thomas is vice president of diversity, equity, access and inclusion at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. She activates systemic change strategies for equity and inclusion in the business community.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Sherrice served as the Director of Change Management at NiSource, one of the largest fully-regulated utility companies in the United States. Sherrice spent 19 years at Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company, holding leadership roles in Organization Effectiveness, Talent Management, and Leadership Development.

Sherrice holds a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Organizational Leadership and Management from Franklin University and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus in Women’s Studies from The Ohio State University. She cooks with her family and practices yoga in her free time.

Sherrice holds a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Organizational Leadership and Management from Franklin University and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus in Women’s Studies from The Ohio State University. She cooks with her family in her free time, creates herbal medicine, and practices yoga.

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SDAO:  Neurographic Art via Zoom
Jan
29
7:00 PM19:00

SDAO: Neurographic Art via Zoom

Join us in January at our SDAO virtual gathering, as we explore using Neurographic Art in Spiritual Direction.  Neurographic Art is an intuitive form of art that involves mindfulness and intentionality that can be used to help support our directees in relieving anxiety and finding greater clarity and peace. It can be used stand alone or with other forms of creativity like SoulCollage© or art journaling. 

Participants are welcome to draw along with the demonstration and begin creating.  All you will need is a sheet of paper, black ultra fine point Sharpie, thick chisel tip black sharpie, and colored pencils or highlighters.  Your paper weight can vary from 30lbs and up. 

Free to 2024 SDAO members, $10 for non-members

Click here to register.

Save the date for additional Spiritual Directors Association of Ohio (SDAO) 2024 meetings:

April 27   9:30 a.m. - noon   (Saturday workshop Starting your Spiritual Direction Business
July 22      7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m
October 26   9:30 a.m. - noon  

If you have a topic you would like to see presented in 2024 or 2025, click here to let us know!

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Conversations about Loss and Healing via ZOOM
Jan
20
9:00 AM09:00

Conversations about Loss and Healing via ZOOM

Presented by Annie Dalby

Join us for this engaging workshop where we'll explore ways to compassionately sit with those who are grieving. Whether you're a spiritual director or not, Annie Dalby will explore elements of grief and loss, with a strong focus on the healing process.

Cost: $40 for the public
Register here

Cost: $32 for SDAO members
Register here

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