Matt Whitney

In this week's episode, SDI's Rev. SeiFu and Matt Whitney continue their conversation on what it means to belong to the SDI community, particularly when things get challenging. In our ongoing SDI community dialogue around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging, we’d like to focus more intensively on the Belonging part. SDI has envisioned our community as a Public Square of Spiritual Companionship, in which we gather as spiritual directors and companions from an array of faith traditions and spiritual orientations. Though sometimes this process can be messy and uncomfortable, SDI will always be a place for anyone who shares our passion and commitment to our common calling. The conversation continues from last week's Part 1.  --- SDI Membership is about being a part of a global contemplative movement that contributes to peace, justice, and living in right relationship with all living beings. The SDI learning community is a group of compassionate listeners who are committed to serving others on their spiritual journeys. Everyone is welcome to become a member of SDI, which also supports our work to advocate for the healing contemplative modalities of spiritual direction and companionship. Become a new member or renew your membership on SDI’s secure online store, at sdicompanions.org.

In this week's episode, SDI's Rev. SeiFu and Matt Whitney continue their conversation on what it means to belong to the SDI community, particularly when things get challenging. In our ongoing SDI community dialogue around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging, we’d like to focus more intensively on the Belonging part. SDI has envisioned our community as a Public Square of Spiritual Companionship, in which we gather as spiritual directors and companions from an array of faith traditions and spiritual orientations. Though sometimes this process can be messy and uncomfortable, SDI will always be a place for anyone who shares our passion and commitment to our common calling. The conversation continues from last week's Part 1.  --- <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/become-a-member/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Membership</a> is about being a part of a global contemplative movement that contributes to peace, justice, and living in right relationship with all living beings. The SDI learning community is a group of compassionate listeners who are committed to serving others on their spiritual journeys. Everyone is welcome to become a member of SDI, which also supports our work to advocate for the healing contemplative modalities of spiritual direction and companionship. Become a new member or renew your membership on SDI’s secure online store, at <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/sdi-membership/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">sdicompanions.org</a>.

Rev. SeiFu and Matt Whitney on Belonging - Part 2

In this week's episode, SDI's Rev. SeiFu and Matt Whitney discuss what it means to belong to the SDI community, particularly when things get challenging. In our ongoing SDI community dialogue around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging, we’d like to focus more intensively on the Belonging part. SDI has envisioned our community as a Public Square of Spiritual Companionship, in which we gather as spiritual directors and companions from an array of faith traditions and spiritual orientations. Though sometimes this process can be messy and uncomfortable, SDI will always be a place for anyone who shares our passion and commitment to our common calling. The conversation continues next week in Part 2. --- SDI Membership is about being a part of a global contemplative movement that contributes to peace, justice, and living in right relationship with all living beings. The SDI learning community is a group of compassionate listeners who are committed to serving others on their spiritual journeys. Everyone is welcome to become a member of SDI, which also supports our work to advocate for the healing contemplative modalities of spiritual direction and companionship. Become a new member or renew your membership on SDI’s secure online store, at sdicompanions.org.

In this week's episode, SDI's Rev. SeiFu and Matt Whitney discuss what it means to belong to the SDI community, particularly when things get challenging. In our ongoing SDI community dialogue around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging, we’d like to focus more intensively on the Belonging part. SDI has envisioned our community as a Public Square of Spiritual Companionship, in which we gather as spiritual directors and companions from an array of faith traditions and spiritual orientations. Though sometimes this process can be messy and uncomfortable, SDI will always be a place for anyone who shares our passion and commitment to our common calling. The conversation continues next week in Part 2. --- <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/become-a-member/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Membership</a> is about being a part of a global contemplative movement that contributes to peace, justice, and living in right relationship with all living beings. The SDI learning community is a group of compassionate listeners who are committed to serving others on their spiritual journeys. Everyone is welcome to become a member of SDI, which also supports our work to advocate for the healing contemplative modalities of spiritual direction and companionship. Become a new member or renew your membership on SDI’s secure online store, at <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/sdi-membership/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">sdicompanions.org</a>.

Rev. SeiFu and Matt Whitney on Belonging - Part 1

Harry Pickens

“I already feel more awake`-thank you.” “I cannot wait for the class!!!” “brilliant and blissful,” “Tingly,” “Being present to my own joy,” “Calm and energized,” “Peacefulness,” “Wonder and awe,” “Reconnecting with my true self.” “This was life-changing.” “I feel like I’ve transformed as a spiritual director” (OK, that one is from me, but it’s true). These are a few of the comments received just from the one-hour preview session we had with Harry Pickens! The recording is posted below and is available for you to watch whenever you like. SDI Members can also find it in the Free Sessions Course within their ‘My Courses and Webinars‘ section, or can access directly by clicking here: “Awakening Joy” Huge thanks to Harry Pickens for facilitating this wonderful session! If you want to experience more healing, more integration, more joy, and cultivate a fuller spiritual presence for yourself and those you companion, then we encourage you to sign up for our five-session webinar with Harry beginning on July 5th. All sessions are recorded for you to watch whenever you like. Click here to learn more and register. --- Harry Pickens is an award-winning musician, educator, and life transformation coach. He  holds practitioner and trainer certifications in EFT and Spiritual Technology and a Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology from the Flourishing Center. He is the developer of the From StageFright To Standing Ovation™, From Burnout To Bliss™ and Rewire Your Brain For Inner Peace™ Workshops, and creator of Emotional Empowerment For Personal Mastery™, a step-by-step protocol that is designed to help his clients quickly and easily release the pain of the past, fully embrace the miracle of the present moment, and consciously create their best possible future. Harry was a recent presenter in the SDI Trauma and Wellness Course for Spiritual Directors and Companions.

“I already feel more awake`-thank you.” “I cannot wait for the class!!!” “brilliant and blissful,” “Tingly,” “Being present to my own joy,” “Calm and energized,” “Peacefulness,” “Wonder and awe,” “Reconnecting with my true self.” “This was life-changing.” “I feel like I’ve transformed as a spiritual director” (OK, that one is from me, but it’s true). These are a few of the comments received just from the one-hour preview session we had with Harry Pickens! The recording is posted below and is available for you to watch whenever you like. SDI Members can also find it in the Free Sessions Course within their ‘<a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/my-courses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">My Courses and Webinars</a>‘ section, or can access directly by clicking here: <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/courses/free/lessons/awakening-joy-free-session/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">“Awakening Joy”</a> Huge thanks to Harry Pickens for facilitating this wonderful session! If you want to experience more healing, more integration, more joy, and cultivate a fuller spiritual presence for yourself and those you companion, then we encourage you to sign up for our five-session webinar with Harry beginning on July 5th. All sessions are recorded for you to watch whenever you like. <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/awakening-joy-cultivating-spiritual-presence-for-yourself-and-those-you-companion/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click here to learn more and register</a>. --- Harry Pickens is an award-winning musician, educator, and life transformation coach. He  holds practitioner and trainer certifications in EFT and Spiritual Technology and a Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology from the Flourishing Center. He is the developer of the From StageFright To Standing Ovation™, From Burnout To Bliss™ and Rewire Your Brain For Inner Peace™ Workshops, and creator of Emotional Empowerment For Personal Mastery™, a step-by-step protocol that is designed to help his clients quickly and easily release the pain of the past, fully embrace the miracle of the present moment, and consciously create their best possible future. Harry was a recent presenter in the SDI Trauma and Wellness Course for Spiritual Directors and Companions.

Awakening Joy - Practices to Cultivate Spiritual Presence - Harry Pickens

Jeanette Banashak

Rev Simon Ruth De Voil

Simon Ruth

Hear directly from our Guides for the newest iteration of our Forest Bathing Journey, coming in March 2024. We are pleased to welcome all to join us as SDI returns to the woods of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. For spiritual directors, companions, wayfarers and explorers, we invite you to spend a week immersing in nature, breathing the clean forest air, finding silence and stillness, and experience deep listening on new levels. If you missed our first Retreat, here is your opportunity to join us for this truly restful and transformative experience. If you previously attended, we are excited to again bring this offering to you. All are welcome! March 3 - 9, 2024. Special pricing of 20 percent off in place through July 5, 2023! Call or e-mail our Office at 425-455-1565 or office@sdiworld.org to start a payment plan, or register now at https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/2024-the-forest-as-companion-nature-immersion-and-deep-listening/

Hear directly from our Guides for the newest iteration of our Forest Bathing Journey, coming in March 2024. We are pleased to welcome all to join us as SDI returns to the woods of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. For spiritual directors, companions, wayfarers and explorers, we invite you to spend a week immersing in nature, breathing the clean forest air, finding silence and stillness, and experience deep listening on new levels. If you missed our first Retreat, here is your opportunity to join us for this truly restful and transformative experience. If you previously attended, we are excited to again bring this offering to you. All are welcome! March 3 - 9, 2024. Special pricing of 20 percent off in place through July 5, 2023! Call or e-mail our Office at 425-455-1565 or office@sdiworld.org to start a payment plan, or register now at <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/2024-the-forest-as-companion-nature-immersion-and-deep-listening/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/2024-the-forest-as-companion-nature-immersion-and-deep-listening/</a>

Dr Jeanette Banashak and Rev Simon Ruth De Voil - Guides for Our 2024 Forest Bathing Journey

In this recent April 2023, SDI Executive Director Rev. SeiFu Singh-Molares and SDI Creative Director Matt Whitney had a wide-ranging conversation about spiritual direction and companionship, and in particular, reconsidering some of the elements we might consider to be “universal.” Are there common elements to the work of spiritual companionship that we can identify? For example, we often cite “deep listening” as a common practice. But what do we mean when we say that? We also consider, and reconsider, the generation of “spiritual heat,” how spiritual companionship has elements of contemplative practice, opening to new depths of awareness, and how to befriend the overwhelm that can come when we gain insight into the depths of our existence. We have this conversation posted as a five-part video series on our YouTube channel, but here you can listen to the conversation in its entirety. We hope you enjoy it and reconsider for yourself some of the building blocks of your own practice as a spiritual companion. SDI Membership is about being a part of a global contemplative movement that contributes to peace, justice, and living in right relationship with all living beings. The SDI learning community is a group of compassionate listeners who are committed to serving others on their spiritual journeys. Everyone is welcome to become a member of SDI, which also supports our work to advocate for the healing contemplative modalities of spiritual direction and companionship. Become a new member or renew your membership on SDI’s secure online store, at sdicompanions.org.

In this recent April 2023, SDI Executive Director Rev. SeiFu Singh-Molares and SDI Creative Director Matt Whitney had a wide-ranging conversation about spiritual direction and companionship, and in particular, reconsidering some of the elements we might consider to be “universal.” Are there common elements to the work of spiritual companionship that we can identify? For example, we often cite “deep listening” as a common practice. But what do we mean when we say that? We also consider, and reconsider, the generation of “spiritual heat,” how spiritual companionship has elements of contemplative practice, opening to new depths of awareness, and how to befriend the overwhelm that can come when we gain insight into the depths of our existence. We have this conversation posted as a<a href="https://www.youtube.com/sdiworld" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> five-part video series on our YouTube channel</a>, but here you can listen to the conversation in its entirety. We hope you enjoy it and reconsider for yourself some of the building blocks of your own practice as a spiritual companion. <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/become-a-member/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Membership</a> is about being a part of a global contemplative movement that contributes to peace, justice, and living in right relationship with all living beings. The SDI learning community is a group of compassionate listeners who are committed to serving others on their spiritual journeys. Everyone is welcome to become a member of SDI, which also supports our work to advocate for the healing contemplative modalities of spiritual direction and companionship. Become a new member or renew your membership on SDI’s secure online store, at <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/sdi-membership/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">sdicompanions.org</a>.

Reconsidering Spiritual Companionship - Full Conversation with Rev. SeiFu Singh-Molares

Adam Bucko

Recently we at SDI hosted a free preview webinar session with Fr. Adam Bucko, who will be facilitating an upcoming webinar series called Let Your Heartbreak Be Your Guide – Spiritual Direction and Companionship for a World That Has Lots Its Way. This episode we share the audio of that free preview webinar conversation. Join our community of spiritual companions and wayfarers for this 3-part webinar exploring Heartbreak for Spiritual Directors and how to turn it to our advantage. Through readings, deep conversations, dialogue and discernment with one of SDI’s most compelling teachers, Fr. Adam Bucko, your heart will open and be renewed. We will be reading portions of Fr. Adam’s newest book, Let Your Heartbreak Be Your Guide – designed for every person trying to live at the intersection of contemplation and justice, but will be specially resonant for spiritual directors and companions.

Recently we at SDI <a href="https://vimeo.com/812944100/e2205e6930" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hosted a free preview webinar session</a> with Fr. Adam Bucko, who will be facilitating an upcoming webinar series called <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/let-your-heartbreak-be-your-guide/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Let Your Heartbreak Be Your Guide – Spiritual Direction and Companionship for a World That Has Lots Its Way</a>. This episode we share the audio of that free preview webinar conversation. Join our community of spiritual companions and wayfarers for this 3-part webinar exploring Heartbreak for Spiritual Directors and how to turn it to our advantage. Through readings, deep conversations, dialogue and discernment with one of SDI’s most compelling teachers, Fr. Adam Bucko, your heart will open and be renewed. We will be reading portions of Fr. Adam’s newest book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/let-your-heartbreak-be-your-guide-lessons-in-engaged-contemplation-adam-bucko/18215911?ean=9781626984769" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Let Your Heartbreak Be Your Guide</a> – designed for every person trying to live at the intersection of contemplation and justice, but will be specially resonant for spiritual directors and companions.

A Conversation with Fr. Adam Bucko - Let Your Heartbreak Be Your Guide

Carmen Acevedo Butcher

Recently, SDI hosted a free webinar with Carmen Acevedo Butcher, an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, educator, and poet. Carmen specializes in Early Modern French, German, Latin, Middle English, and Old English mystic writers. You can watch the webinar on Vimeo. SDI is starting a four-part series on two mystics: Brother Lawrence and The Cloud of Unknowing. The series will be hosted by Carmen Acevedo Butcher and begins on April 5th, 2023. You can join anytime and watch the recorded sessions at your convenience. Learn more and register on our website. Join us for a deep dive into the writings and teachings of these great mystics. Carmen Acevedo Butcher will facilitate the series and guide us in exploring the meaning beyond the words. We will engage in practices like singing and contemplating to experience the deep love underlying their writings. These writers lived through plagues, wars, and trials similar to what we face today. They are relatable spiritual companions who have walked these paths before us. How did they grapple with the crises of their times? Join us to nourish our souls with hope. Carmen Acevedo Butcher is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, educator, and poet. She is an award-winning translator of works in Early Modern French, German, Latin, Middle English, and Old English by writers including Brother Lawrence.

Recently, SDI hosted a free webinar with Carmen Acevedo Butcher, an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, educator, and poet. Carmen specializes in Early Modern French, German, Latin, Middle English, and Old English mystic writers. You can <a href="https://vimeo.com/808749711/2f212e7f87" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">watch the webinar on Vimeo.</a> SDI is starting a four-part series on two mystics: Brother Lawrence and The Cloud of Unknowing. The series will be hosted by Carmen Acevedo Butcher and begins on April 5th, 2023. You can join anytime and watch the recorded sessions at your convenience. <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/from-anonymous-to-brother-lawrence-carmen-acevedo-butcher/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Learn more and register on our website.</a> Join us for a deep dive into the writings and teachings of these great mystics. Carmen Acevedo Butcher will facilitate the series and guide us in exploring the meaning beyond the words. We will engage in practices like singing and contemplating to experience the deep love underlying their writings. These writers lived through plagues, wars, and trials similar to what we face today. They are relatable spiritual companions who have walked these paths before us. How did they grapple with the crises of their times? Join us to nourish our souls with hope. <a href="https://www.carmenbutcher.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carmen Acevedo Butcher is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, educator, and poet</a>. She is an award-winning translator of works in Early Modern French, German, Latin, Middle English, and Old English by writers including Brother Lawrence.

Carmen Acevedo Butcher - Mystical Wisdom and Practice from The Cloud of Unknowing and Brother Lawrence

Ryan Hinson

Have you ever noticed on the sdicompanions.org website, a small purple chat bubble that follows you in the lower-right hand corner of the screen? It looks like this:  The ‘SDI Chat’ feature is there to assist you with questions you might have about most things related to our website, how to do things like renew your Membership, access a Webinar. And, lest you think it’s a virtual assistant AI robot, oh no, there is a live, breathing human being on the other end of that chat. And his name is Ryan! Ryan Hinson is our Technical Support Assistant, and I thought it would be fun to talk with him and give the opportunity for you to get to know him a little bit. Ryan is interesting and thoughtful and has the perfect calm, unflappable demeanor for dealing with our Members’ technical issues and helping them find and do what they need. I personally promise you will learn something new and interesting in this conversation. Ryan Hinson (he/him) brings his skill and patience as a technology literacy professional to the Technology Support Position. He has two decades of experience in online teaching, educational writing, tutoring, and tech support, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Outside of this professional role, Ryan enjoys growing hot peppers and native fruits, foraging, cooking, and playing video games.

Have you ever noticed on the <a href="https://sdicompanions.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">sdicompanions.org</a> website, a small purple chat bubble that follows you in the lower-right hand corner of the screen? It looks like this: The ‘SDI Chat’ feature is there to assist you with questions you might have about most things related to our website, how to do things like renew your Membership, access a Webinar. And, lest you think it’s a virtual assistant AI robot, oh no, there is a live, breathing human being on the other end of that chat. And his name is Ryan! Ryan Hinson is our Technical Support Assistant, and I thought it would be fun to talk with him and give the opportunity for you to get to know him a little bit. Ryan is interesting and thoughtful and has the perfect calm, unflappable demeanor for dealing with our Members’ technical issues and helping them find and do what they need. I personally promise you will learn something new and interesting in this conversation. Ryan Hinson (he/him) brings his skill and patience as a technology literacy professional to the Technology Support Position. He has two decades of experience in online teaching, educational writing, tutoring, and tech support, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Outside of this professional role, Ryan enjoys growing hot peppers and native fruits, foraging, cooking, and playing video games.

Website Chat Support, Compassionate Listening, and Growing Peppers - Ryan Hinson - SDI Technical Support Specialist

Eric Massanari

In this interview we talk to Eric Massanari, Chair of the SDI Board of Directors. Eric invites all SDI Members to join him and the rest of the SDI Board for virtual teatime gatherings on March 10, 2023. Learn about what it's like to serve on the Board and bring your questions! Bring your tea or coffee to this informal online gathering on March 10th at either 10am Pacific, or at 4pm Pacific! Register here. On a related note, the Board is accepting applications and nominations for new members to serve. the role comes fiduciary, visionary, strategic planning, and Executive Director oversight responsibilities. As part of this Board’s commitment to Diversity and Inclusion, we strongly encourage people from diverse backgrounds, gender identities, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious traditions and/or spiritual orientations to apply. We deeply value, cherish, and encourage applicants from these diverse areas, and others.” Eric Massanari (he/him) is an ordained pastor in the Mennonite tradition, living in northern Washington state where he serves as the Executive Conference Minister for the Pacific Northwest Mennonite Conference of Mennonite Church USA. He also maintains a private practice in spiritual direction. Eric has served on the SDI Board of Directors since 2018 and brings a passion for inter-faith and inter-spiritual connections, community formation, peace and justice building, and companioning people who are at diverse places on the spiritual journey. An avid poet and essayist, Eric is a contributing author of An Open Place: The Ministry of Group Spiritual Direction. In his own words: “I celebrate how spiritual companioning takes so many vital forms across time, place, traditions and cultures. In its myriad expressions it’s a practice that our world needs now more than ever, as together we seek the paths that make for enduring peace.”

In this interview we talk to Eric Massanari, Chair of the SDI Board of Directors. Eric invites all SDI Members to join him and the rest of the SDI Board for virtual teatime gatherings on March 10, 2023. Learn about what it's like to serve on the Board and bring your questions! Bring your tea or coffee to this informal online gathering on March 10th at either 10am Pacific, or at 4pm Pacific! <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/sdi-events/free/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Register here</a>. On a related note, the Board is accepting applications and nominations for new members to serve. the role comes fiduciary, visionary, strategic planning, and Executive Director oversight responsibilities. As part of this Board’s commitment to Diversity and Inclusion, we strongly encourage people from diverse backgrounds, gender identities, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious traditions and/or spiritual orientations to apply. We deeply value, cherish, and encourage applicants from these diverse areas, and others.” Eric Massanari (he/him) is an ordained pastor in the Mennonite tradition, living in northern Washington state where he serves as the Executive Conference Minister for the Pacific Northwest Mennonite Conference of Mennonite Church USA. He also maintains a private practice in spiritual direction. Eric has served on the SDI Board of Directors since 2018 and brings a passion for inter-faith and inter-spiritual connections, community formation, peace and justice building, and companioning people who are at diverse places on the spiritual journey. An avid poet and essayist, Eric is a contributing author of An Open Place: The Ministry of Group Spiritual Direction. In his own words: “I celebrate how spiritual companioning takes so many vital forms across time, place, traditions and cultures. In its myriad expressions it’s a practice that our world needs now more than ever, as together we seek the paths that make for enduring peace.”

Eric Massanari - SDI Board Chair - An Invitation to Community

Myriam Klotz

In this interview we talk to Rabbi Miriam Klotz, vice-chair of the SDI Board of Directors. Rabbi Myriam invites all SDI Members to join her and the rest of the SDI Board for virtual teatime gatherings on March 10, 2023. Learn about what it's like to serve on the Board and bring your questions! Bring your tea or coffee to this informal online gathering on March 10th at either 10am Pacific, or at 4pm Pacific! Register here. Rabbi Myriam Klotz is a spiritual director and supervisor in Jewish seminaries and in private practice since 1999.  Myriam consulted with several rabbinical schools to introduce spiritual direction to their students and faculty.  She coordinated the spiritual direction program at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion from 2010-2020, and has been the director of the Bekhol Levavkha Spiritual Director Training program since 2014.  Myriam is also a Senior Program Director with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality where she teaches somatics and embodied practices from a perspective of deep listening and honoring of our bodies’ sacred wisdom.  Myriam lives in Philadelphia, PA with her spouse Rabbi Margot Stein. She is the proud mom and step mom of two sons.  On a related note, the Board is accepting applications and nominations for new members to serve. the role comes fiduciary, visionary, strategic planning, and Executive Director oversight responsibilities. As part of this Board’s commitment to Diversity and Inclusion, we strongly encourage people from diverse backgrounds, gender identities, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious traditions and/or spiritual orientations to apply. We deeply value, cherish, and encourage applicants from these diverse areas, and others.” If you’re interested in applying or nominating a qualified individual to serve on the board, please go to our website sdicompanions.org, and on the homepage you’ll find the graphic which will take you to the appropriate forms.

In this interview we talk to Rabbi Miriam Klotz, vice-chair of the SDI Board of Directors. Rabbi Myriam invites all SDI Members to join her and the rest of the SDI Board for virtual teatime gatherings on March 10, 2023. Learn about what it's like to serve on the Board and bring your questions! Bring your tea or coffee to this informal online gathering on March 10th at either 10am Pacific, or at 4pm Pacific! <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/sdi-events/free/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Register here</a>. Rabbi Myriam Klotz is a spiritual director and supervisor in Jewish seminaries and in private practice since 1999.  Myriam consulted with several rabbinical schools to introduce spiritual direction to their students and faculty.  She coordinated the spiritual direction program at the <a href="https://huc.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion</a> from 2010-2020, and has been the director of the Bekhol Levavkha Spiritual Director Training program since 2014.  Myriam is also a Senior Program Director with the <a href="https://www.jewishspirituality.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Institute for Jewish Spirituality</a> where she teaches somatics and embodied practices from a perspective of deep listening and honoring of our bodies’ sacred wisdom.  Myriam lives in Philadelphia, PA with her spouse Rabbi Margot Stein. She is the proud mom and step mom of two sons.  On a related note, the Board is accepting applications and nominations for new members to serve. the role comes fiduciary, visionary, strategic planning, and Executive Director oversight responsibilities. As part of this Board’s commitment to Diversity and Inclusion, we strongly encourage people from diverse backgrounds, gender identities, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious traditions and/or spiritual orientations to apply. We deeply value, cherish, and encourage applicants from these diverse areas, and others.” If you’re interested in applying or nominating a qualified individual to serve on the board, <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/applications-for-sdi-board-of-directors-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">please go to our website sdicompanions.org, and on the homepage you’ll find the graphic which will take you to the appropriate forms.</a>

Rabbi Myriam Klotz - SDI Board Vice-Chair - An Invitation to Serve

What are the big questions in your life? Where are you on the spiritual journey? Do you have people in your life who listen to your deepest questions, with contemplative presence and compassion? SDI Creative Director Matt Whitney hosts conversations on spiritual direction, guidance, contemplation, and community. This podcast offers a wide range of perspectives, stories, and conversations about the contemplative, healing modality of spiritual companionship, across a wide range of religious traditions and vocations. Discover the benefits of spiritual companionship and deep listening.

Busshō Lahn

Busshō Lahn is a Zen student and teacher, and the guiding teacher of Flying Cloud Zen Spiritual Practice Community. He’s also a popular speaker, retreat leader, spiritual director, author, and a Senior Priest at Minnesota Zen Meditation Center. Busshō has just published his first Zen book, Singing and Dancing are the Voice of the Law, by Monkfish Publications. In this episode we discuss this book and its exploration of the Zen poem, The Song of Zazen, and other things such as how we first connected at SDI, persevering with ideas we feel called to create and make, paradoxes such as giving up safety in order to find Safety, the Nature of the Universe – you know, the things we commonly talk about here on this podcast. Bussho is a friend and a lively conversationalist and deeply contemplative - I hope you enjoy the conversation. Singing and Dancing Are the Voice of the Law introduces us to one of the great works of Zen literature, “The Song of Zazen.” Zen teacher Busshō Lahn illuminates Hakuin’s enigmatic poem in plain language, unpacking it and applying it to contemporary life. His book offers a wealth of information on the context and content of this eighteenth-century work, clearly evoking its themes of abiding wisdom, meditation, compassionate self-regard, and our own everyday life’s potential to express deep spiritual truth. Learn more about the book, and purchase links, here: Singing and Dancing Are the Voice of the Law - Monkfish (monkfishpublishing.com) Busshō first came to Soto Zen Buddhism in 1993, was ordained as a novice in 2009, and received Dharma Transmission (authorization to carry the lineage and teach independently) in 2015. Busshō remains rooted in his Zen tradition but cultivates an openness to the beauty and wisdom of other faiths. Through appreciatively understanding other paths, he feels that he becomes a better Buddhist.

Busshō Lahn is a Zen student and teacher, and the guiding teacher of Flying Cloud Zen Spiritual Practice Community. He’s also a popular speaker, retreat leader, spiritual director, author, and a Senior Priest at Minnesota Zen Meditation Center. Busshō has just published his first Zen book, Singing and Dancing are the Voice of the Law, by Monkfish Publications. In this episode we discuss this book and its exploration of the Zen poem, The Song of Zazen, and other things such as how we first connected at SDI, persevering with ideas we feel called to create and make, paradoxes such as giving up safety in order to find Safety, the Nature of the Universe – you know, the things we commonly talk about here on this podcast. Bussho is a friend and a lively conversationalist and deeply contemplative - I hope you enjoy the conversation. Singing and Dancing Are the Voice of the Law introduces us to one of the great works of Zen literature, “The Song of Zazen.” Zen teacher Busshō Lahn illuminates Hakuin’s enigmatic poem in plain language, unpacking it and applying it to contemporary life. His book offers a wealth of information on the context and content of this eighteenth-century work, clearly evoking its themes of abiding wisdom, meditation, compassionate self-regard, and our own everyday life’s potential to express deep spiritual truth. Learn more about the book, and purchase links, here: <a href="https://www.monkfishpublishing.com/products-page-2/buddhism/singing-and-dancing-are-the-voice-of-the-law/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Singing and Dancing Are the Voice of the Law - Monkfish (monkfishpublishing.com)</a> Busshō first came to Soto Zen Buddhism in 1993, was ordained as a novice in 2009, and received Dharma Transmission (authorization to carry the lineage and teach independently) in 2015. Busshō remains rooted in his Zen tradition but cultivates an openness to the beauty and wisdom of other faiths. Through appreciatively understanding other paths, he feels that he becomes a better Buddhist.

A Conversation with Busshō Lahn - Singing and Dancing are the Voice of the Law

David Wallace

Simon de Voil

In this week's episode, Rev. Simon Ruth de Voil and Rev. David Wallace swap poetry and song ahead of their upcoming 4-part webinar series entitled "Deep Calls Unto Deep: A Contemplative Exploration of the Psalms in Our Life and Practice", which begins on January 30.  This Interspiritually-minded and experiential webinar highlights works from The Book of Psalms, a revered sacred text across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which is cherished for its deep wisdom, beautiful poetry, and broad exploration of the joys, sorrows, despairs, and longings at the heart of the human condition. We will be learning about and engaging with the Book of Psalms through teaching, music, writing, and contemplative listening, with opportunities for sharing and for spiritual companionship. All spiritual wayfarers from any spiritual orientation or tradition will find wisdom, song, and practice to nourish their souls. Learn more and register for this webinar series at sdicompanions.org. ---- Rev. Simon Ruth de Voil, is an ordained interfaith/interspiritual minister, trained to be a sacred presence outside the conventions of traditional religion. As a sacred musician, spiritual mentor and worship leader he incorporates chant, ritual, poetry, storytelling, and mindful practice to create a space for profound connection and sacred witness. Simon provides music for worship, ceremony, and prayer in a wide variety of churches and non-religious spiritual communities. He particularly loves to create music for meditation, healing services, and rites of passage. Simon is also an experienced workshop and retreat leader, drawing on 15 years of study, training, and practice that grew from his time living and working in Iona Abbey. Although influenced by many traditions, Simon’s spiritual path and teaching is deeply rooted in Celtic Christianity, the wisdom of the earth, and in the Scottish land where he’s spent most of his life. Learn more about Simon on his website: simondevoil.com  Rev. David Wallace recently retired as a dean and senior teacher for One Spirit Interfaith Seminary in New York City, and is a faculty member of the spiritual direction program at the Rowe Center and an active officiant and spiritual director.  He is a graduate of St. John’s College in Santa Fe, NM, and has continued those studies as a lifelong student of the “great books” of philosophy and archetypal psychology.  Rev. Wallace offers teaching and retreats at spiritual venues worldwide, and specializes in poetics, contemplative practice, and the wisdom texts of both the Eastern and Western traditions.

In this week's episode, Rev. Simon Ruth de Voil and Rev. David Wallace swap poetry and song ahead of their upcoming 4-part webinar series entitled "<a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/deep-calls-unto-deep-a-contemplative-exploration-of-the-psalms-in-our-life-and-practice/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Deep Calls Unto Deep: A Contemplative Exploration of the Psalms in Our Life and Practice</a>", which begins on January 30.  This Interspiritually-minded and experiential webinar highlights works from The Book of Psalms, a revered sacred text across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which is cherished for its deep wisdom, beautiful poetry, and broad exploration of the joys, sorrows, despairs, and longings at the heart of the human condition. We will be learning about and engaging with the Book of Psalms through teaching, music, writing, and contemplative listening, with opportunities for sharing and for spiritual companionship. All spiritual wayfarers from any spiritual orientation or tradition will find wisdom, song, and practice to nourish their souls. Learn more and register for this webinar series at <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/deep-calls-unto-deep-a-contemplative-exploration-of-the-psalms-in-our-life-and-practice/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">sdicompanions.org</a>. ---- Rev. Simon Ruth de Voil, is an ordained interfaith/interspiritual minister, trained to be a sacred presence outside the conventions of traditional religion. As a sacred musician, spiritual mentor and worship leader he incorporates chant, ritual, poetry, storytelling, and mindful practice to create a space for profound connection and sacred witness. Simon provides music for worship, ceremony, and prayer in a wide variety of churches and non-religious spiritual communities. He particularly loves to create music for meditation, healing services, and rites of passage. Simon is also an experienced workshop and retreat leader, drawing on 15 years of study, training, and practice that grew from his time living and working in Iona Abbey. Although influenced by many traditions, Simon’s spiritual path and teaching is deeply rooted in Celtic Christianity, the wisdom of the earth, and in the Scottish land where he’s spent most of his life. Learn more about Simon on his website: <a href="http://www.simondevoil.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">simondevoil.com</a> Rev. David Wallace recently retired as a dean and senior teacher for One Spirit Interfaith Seminary in New York City, and is a faculty member of the spiritual direction program at the Rowe Center and an active officiant and spiritual director.  He is a graduate of St. John’s College in Santa Fe, NM, and has continued those studies as a lifelong student of the “great books” of philosophy and archetypal psychology.  Rev. Wallace offers teaching and retreats at spiritual venues worldwide, and specializes in poetics, contemplative practice, and the wisdom texts of both the Eastern and Western traditions.

An Exploration of the Psalms - Song and Poetry Swap with Simon de Voil and David Wallace

Howard Thurman

SDI Executive Director Rev. SeiFu Singh-Molares and Lerita Coleman Brown discuss the work of Howard Thurman, anticipating the upcoming webinar series from SDI - Listening for the Sound of the Genuine. This 4-part series will provide an overview of Howard Thurman’s contributions to spirituality, mysticism, and sacred activism. During this webinar, we will walk through the life and writings of Howard Thurman and listen for the genuine; the words and ideas that Spirit holds uniquely for each of us and our ministries of spiritual direction/companioning. With this clarion call for the authentic, what do we hear about living as a contemplative, a holy child of God, an everyday mystic, a prophetic leader, and with inner authority as we answer our sacred call? In what ways does it help us to companion ourselves and those we journey with? Join us as we uncover the depths of inner freedom that emerge when we listen for the genuine, to what makes us come alive. Sign up for this four part webinar today at https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/listening-for-the-sound-of-the-genuine/

SDI Executive Director Rev. SeiFu Singh-Molares and Lerita Coleman Brown discuss the work of Howard Thurman, anticipating the upcoming webinar series from SDI - Listening for the Sound of the Genuine. This 4-part series will provide an overview of Howard Thurman’s contributions to spirituality, mysticism, and sacred activism. During this webinar, we will walk through the life and writings of Howard Thurman and listen for the genuine; the words and ideas that Spirit holds uniquely for each of us and our ministries of spiritual direction/companioning. With this clarion call for the authentic, what do we hear about living as a contemplative, a holy child of God, an everyday mystic, a prophetic leader, and with inner authority as we answer our sacred call? In what ways does it help us to companion ourselves and those we journey with? Join us as we uncover the depths of inner freedom that emerge when we listen for the genuine, to what makes us come alive. Sign up for this four part webinar today at <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/listening-for-the-sound-of-the-genuine/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/listening-for-the-sound-of-the-genuine/</a>

An Interview with Lerita Coleman Brown - The Enduring Wisdom of Howard Thurman

Aimee Bostwick

Hi! Matt Whitney here – Creative Director, and one of the Guides for the Nature Immersion and Deep Listening Journey we have put together for all spiritual directors, companions, and wayfarers. In this episode, I have a conversation with Aimee Bostwick, who is Coordinator of Community and Spiritual Life at Kanuga Conference Center (our hosts for this retreat) in North Carolina about what it's like to live and work there, being in the landscape, and what retreat participants can expect. We still have spots for YOU! As I write this, we are a little more than three months away. Our retreat dates are March 19-25, 2023. This is the perfect time to register. Right now, SDI is having its Solstice Sale, with 15 percent savings across all our offerings. A single room reservation saves $375! This is my dream retreat. I designed it the way I would want a retreat to be. What would I need to find deep rest and reconnection? Where would I want to be? What would the flow of a day look like? Who would I want to share this with? All are welcome. 🌲🌳

Hi! Matt Whitney here – Creative Director, and one of the Guides for the <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/sdi-journey-the-forest-as-companion-nature-immersion-and-deep-listening-march-19-25-2023/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nature Immersion and Deep Listening Journey </a>we have put together for all spiritual directors, companions, and wayfarers. In this episode, I have a conversation with Aimee Bostwick, who is Coordinator of Community and Spiritual Life at <a href="https://www.kanuga.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kanuga Conference Center (our hosts for this retreat) in North Carolina</a> about what it's like to live and work there, being in the landscape, and what retreat participants can expect. We still have spots for YOU! As I write this, we are a little more than three months away. Our retreat dates are March 19-25, 2023. This is the perfect time to register. Right now, <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/store-home/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI is having its Solstice Sale, with 15 percent savings across all our offerings</a>. A single room reservation saves $375! This is my dream retreat. I designed it the way I would want a retreat to be. What would I need to find deep rest and reconnection? Where would I want to be? What would the flow of a day look like? Who would I want to share this with? All are welcome. 🌲🌳

Aimee Bostwick - Community and Spiritual Life at Kanuga Conference Center - Forest Bathing Journey with SDI

Cynthia Bailey

Recently, Cynthia Bailey Manns came off of the SDI Coordinating Council, now called the SDI Board of Directors, and also wrote a reflection for Presence – our journal on spiritual direction and companionship. Cynthia and I discuss her written reflection, her time serving on the Coordinating Council, and her work as a soul companion. Cynthia Bailey Manns, D.Min., is an experienced soul companion,  supervisor, workshop and retreat leader, Movement Chaplain, spiritual direction training program leader, Lilly Grant program leader and author. Her passion for soul care and sacred activism is foundational to her current service as the Adult Learning Director at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Community in Minneapolis, Adjunct Faculty in the Theology department at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, and accompanying lay and ordained spiritual leaders.  She is the US Catholic representative and author for the 2023 World Council of Churches Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and served as the past Chair of SDI's Coordinating Council. 

Recently, Cynthia Bailey Manns came off of the SDI Coordinating Council, now called the <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/about/board-of-directors/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Board of Directors</a>, and also <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/media/presence/presence-28-3-september-2022/reflections-of-a-soul-companion/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wrote a reflection for Presence</a> – our <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/media/presence/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">journal on spiritual direction and companionship</a>. Cynthia and I discuss her written reflection, her time serving on the Coordinating Council, and her work as a soul companion. Cynthia Bailey Manns, D.Min., is an experienced soul companion,  supervisor, workshop and retreat leader, Movement Chaplain, spiritual direction training program leader, Lilly Grant program leader and author. Her passion for soul care and sacred activism is foundational to her current service as the Adult Learning Director at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Community in Minneapolis, Adjunct Faculty in the Theology department at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, and accompanying lay and ordained spiritual leaders.  She is the US Catholic representative and author for the 2023 World Council of Churches Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and served as the past Chair of SDI's Coordinating Council.

Cynthia Bailey Manns - Reflections of a Soul Companion

SDI is offering a very unique Forest Bathing Journey – a travel experience hosted by us – to the Blue Ridge Mountains for a Nature Immersion and Deep Listening retreat, for seven days in March 2023. In this conversation, the retreat facilitators, Dr Jeanette Banashak and myself, discuss our themes and hopes for this time together, to give you a better sense of what is being offered.  For all spiritual directors, companions, and seekers, we invite you to spend a week immersing in nature, breathing the clean forest air, finding silence and stillness, and experience deep listening on new levels.  With this SDI Journey we are able to offer reasonable pricing, with a significant Early Bird discount if you register before October 8th. We are offering standard single and double rooms in both a contemporary inn setting, as well as multi-room cabins and cottages. Bring a friend (or a few friends!) And let us know with whom you’d like to share lodgings. If four or more of you would like to reserve a cabin or cottage together, call us and we’ll work something out.  Designed by spiritual directors and companions, for spiritual directors and companions, this Journey retreat is sure to nourish, restore, and intimately connect you to Nature, Contemplative Community, and the Essence of your very Being.  Learn more at SDI Journey - The Forest as Companion - Nature Immersion and Deep Listening - March 19-25, 2023 - SDI Companions      Dr. Jeanette Banashak is a queer and bilingual interspiritual and interreligious companion. She has a diploma in shinrin yoku (forest bathing) and guides people of all ages in nature urban immersion experiences as an act of justice, as well as is working on a piece that explores interspirituality and trees. She is the co-founder/director of The Spiritual Guidance Training Institute, an organization providing training in spiritual direction/companionship with an interfaith, interspiritual, inter-contemplative focus. Jeanette is the author of The Mindful Pilgrimage: A 40-Day Pocket Devotional for Pilgrims of Any Faith or None and a 30-Day ezine of haiga from the Camino. In 2018, she became a “dual pilgrim” after walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain and Kumano Kodo in Japan. Jeanette also teaches social and emotional learning and development at Erikson Institute and spiritual direction at the Graduate Theological Foundation. 

SDI is offering a very unique <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/sdi-journey-the-forest-as-companion-nature-immersion-and-deep-listening-march-19-25-2023/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Forest Bathing Journey – a travel experience hosted by us – to the Blue Ridge Mountains for a Nature Immersion and Deep Listening retreat</a>, for seven days in March 2023. In this conversation, the retreat facilitators, Dr Jeanette Banashak and myself, discuss our themes and hopes for this time together, to give you a better sense of what is being offered.  For all spiritual directors, companions, and seekers, we invite you to spend a week immersing in nature, breathing the clean forest air, finding silence and stillness, and experience deep listening on new levels. With this SDI Journey we are able to offer reasonable pricing, with a significant Early Bird discount if you register before October 8th. We are offering standard single and double rooms in both a contemporary inn setting, as well as multi-room cabins and cottages. Bring a friend (or a few friends!) And let us know with whom you’d like to share lodgings. If four or more of you would like to reserve a cabin or cottage together, call us and we’ll work something out. Designed by spiritual directors and companions, for spiritual directors and companions, this Journey retreat is sure to nourish, restore, and intimately connect you to Nature, Contemplative Community, and the Essence of your very Being. Learn more at <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/sdi-journey-the-forest-as-companion-nature-immersion-and-deep-listening-march-19-25-2023/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Journey - The Forest as Companion - Nature Immersion and Deep Listening - March 19-25, 2023 - SDI Companions</a> <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/sdi-journey-the-forest-as-companion-nature-immersion-and-deep-listening-march-19-25-2023/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Dr. Jeanette Banashak is a queer and bilingual interspiritual and interreligious companion. She has a diploma in shinrin yoku (forest bathing) and guides people of all ages in nature urban immersion experiences as an act of justice, as well as is working on a piece that explores interspirituality and trees. She is the co-founder/director of The <a href="https://www.spiritualguidancetraining.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spiritual Guidance Training Institute</a>, an organization providing training in spiritual direction/companionship with an interfaith, interspiritual, inter-contemplative focus. Jeanette is the author of The Mindful Pilgrimage: A 40-Day Pocket Devotional for Pilgrims of Any Faith or None and a 30-Day ezine of haiga from the Camino. In 2018, she became a “dual pilgrim” after walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain and Kumano Kodo in Japan. Jeanette also teaches social and emotional learning and development at<a href="https://www.erikson.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Erikson Institute</a> and spiritual direction at the <a href="https://gtfeducation.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Graduate Theological Foundation</a>.

Nature Immersion and Deep Listening - A Forest Bathing Retreat from SDI - Dr Jeanette Banashak

Since 2002 Dr. Bruce Tallman has been a full-time spiritual director and marriage coach in private practice. He is passionate about his mission, which is to help people grow in wisdom and love. Bruce wrote the manual on how to make a living as a spiritual director – a seminal text for most working spiritual directors and companions called Finding Seekers: How to Develop a Spiritual Direction Practice from Beginning to Full-Time Employment. He also participated in our recent Making a Living 3 Webinar series, which is available as a recorded purchase on the SDI website. Bruce has a new book out, an exploration of the 17th century saint Francis de Sales and his 1616 Treatise on the Love of God. This book is called God’s Ecstatic Love and is available for purchase on Amazon, and on Bruce’s website – brucetallman.com. Bruce and I recently spoke about this recent book and caught up on all kinds of topics around spiritual direction. In spiritual direction, he has worked with laity and clergy from every Christian denomination. He has published two books for spiritual directors (one of them, Finding Seekers: How to Develop a Spiritual Direction Practice from Beginning to Full-Time Employment, is a bestseller in the field). He has also published two books on spirituality for clergy and lay people (see the "Books" page). He has had hundreds of articles on spirituality published in the London Free Press and other newspapers and is an adjunct faculty for the Haden Institute for Spiritual Directors Training. From 1988 to 2002 Dr. Tallman was the director of two adult religious education centers for the Roman Catholic Diocese of London, Ontario. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree in Spiritual Direction/Counselling from the Graduate Theological Foundation, which is affiliated with the Gregorian Institute in Rome and Oxford University in England. Francis de Sales, bishop, doctor, saint, and mystic, published Treatise on the Love of God in 1616. Scholars consider it to be one of the classics of Christian literature, on the level of The Cloud of Unknowing, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis, and The Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius of Loyola. Yet, most people have never heard of it. Dr. Bruce Tallman’s new book God’s Ecstatic Love takes de Sales’ spiritual masterpiece and updates it in a way that makes sense to 21st century minds. Learn more about Bruce's book at BruceTallman.com

Since 2002 Dr. Bruce Tallman has been a full-time spiritual director and marriage coach in private practice. He is passionate about his mission, which is to help people grow in wisdom and love. Bruce wrote the manual on how to make a living as a spiritual director – a seminal text for most working spiritual directors and companions called Finding Seekers: How to Develop a Spiritual Direction Practice from Beginning to Full-Time Employment. He also participated in our recent Making a Living 3 Webinar series, which is available as a recorded purchase on the SDI website. Bruce has a new book out, an exploration of the 17th century saint Francis de Sales and his 1616 Treatise on the Love of God. This book is called God’s Ecstatic Love and is available for purchase on Amazon, and on Bruce’s website – <a href="http://brucetallman.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">brucetallman.com</a>. Bruce and I recently spoke about this recent book and caught up on all kinds of topics around spiritual direction. In spiritual direction, he has worked with laity and clergy from every Christian denomination. He has published two books for spiritual directors (one of them, Finding Seekers: How to Develop a Spiritual Direction Practice from Beginning to Full-Time Employment, is a bestseller in the field). He has also published two books on spirituality for clergy and lay people (see the "Books" page). He has had hundreds of articles on spirituality published in the London Free Press and other newspapers and is an adjunct faculty for the Haden Institute for Spiritual Directors Training. From 1988 to 2002 Dr. Tallman was the director of two adult religious education centers for the Roman Catholic Diocese of London, Ontario. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree in Spiritual Direction/Counselling from the Graduate Theological Foundation, which is affiliated with the Gregorian Institute in Rome and Oxford University in England. Francis de Sales, bishop, doctor, saint, and mystic, published Treatise on the Love of God in 1616. Scholars consider it to be one of the classics of Christian literature, on the level of The Cloud of Unknowing, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis, and The Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius of Loyola. Yet, most people have never heard of it. Dr. Bruce Tallman’s new book God’s Ecstatic Love takes de Sales’ spiritual masterpiece and updates it in a way that makes sense to 21st century minds. <a href="https://www.brucetallman.com/books" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Learn more about Bruce's book at BruceTallman.com</a>

Dr. Bruce Tallman - New Book on Francis de Sales - Making a Living in Spiritual Direction

Westina Matthews

In the June 2022 issue of Presence Journal, Dr Westina Matthews writes, “We will not attempt to convince another to adopt any view but rather offer a safe and sacred space to share knowledge and to engage in open and honest dialogue about what is usually considered to be a taboo topic.  In spiritual direction, often resisted is the topic of sex, sexuality, and sexual orientation. We have found that both spiritual director and spiritual directee tend to avoid these “taboos,” So why the silence? (We) are convinced it is due to the shame.”  How does one begin to overcome this shame?”  In this interview, we talk with Dr Matthews about how spiritual directors and companions can begin to create a safe, holy space in their sessions to allow for safe, brave conversations about sexuality. Approaches, icebreakers questions, acknowledging sexual confusion and harm, and understanding sexuality from a contemplative grounding are discussed. --- Dr. Westina Matthews, PhD, is an author, public speaker, retreat leader, and theologian. She is an adjunct professor at General Theological Seminary in the Center for Christian Spirituality in New York, New York, USA, where she teaches contemplative spiritual direction. Further reading and resources can be found at https://www.spiritualityandsexuality.org/ Dr. Westina’s website: Westina – Author (westinamatthews.com) --- Presence is the flagship publication of SDI. It comes out four times a year, and is an international journal on spiritual direction and companionship. Presence Journal is available in print and on the web to SDI Members.  Read the current issue on the web, with exclusive video interviews, here: Presence - 28.2 - June 2022 - SDI Companions Become a Member of SDI and support our work to bring spiritual direction and companionship to the world by clicking here: SDI Membership - Join the Community of Spiritual Companions (sdicompanions.org)

In the June 2022 issue of Presence Journal, Dr Westina Matthews writes, “We will not attempt to convince another to adopt any view but rather offer a safe and sacred space to share knowledge and to engage in open and honest dialogue about what is usually considered to be a taboo topic.  In spiritual direction, often resisted is the topic of sex, sexuality, and sexual orientation. We have found that both spiritual director and spiritual directee tend to avoid these “taboos,” So why the silence? (We) are convinced it is due to the shame.” How does one begin to overcome this shame?” In this interview, we talk with Dr Matthews about how spiritual directors and companions can begin to create a safe, holy space in their sessions to allow for safe, brave conversations about sexuality. Approaches, icebreakers questions, acknowledging sexual confusion and harm, and understanding sexuality from a contemplative grounding are discussed. --- Dr. Westina Matthews, PhD, is an author, public speaker, retreat leader, and theologian. She is an adjunct professor at General Theological Seminary in the Center for Christian Spirituality in New York, New York, USA, where she teaches contemplative spiritual direction. Further reading and resources can be found at <a href="https://www.spiritualityandsexuality.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.spiritualityandsexuality.org/</a> Dr. Westina’s website: <a href="https://westinamatthews.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Westina – Author (westinamatthews.com)</a> --- Presence is the flagship publication of SDI. It comes out four times a year, and is an international journal on spiritual direction and companionship. Presence Journal is available in print and on the web to SDI Members.  Read the current issue on the web, with exclusive video interviews, here: <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/media/presence/presence-27-4-december-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Presence - 28.2 - June 2022 - SDI Companions</a> Become a Member of SDI and support our work to bring spiritual direction and companionship to the world by clicking here: <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/become-a-member/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Membership - Join the Community of Spiritual Companions (sdicompanions.org)</a>

A Contemplative Approach to Sexuality - Dr. Westina Matthews

Rabbi Rami Shapiro

Recently I had the amazing opportunity to chat with author and teacher Rabbi Rami Shapiro, who has written an article for Presence Journal – the SDI quarterly publication on spiritual direction and companionship. It was meant to just be a quick 15 minute conversation that I could use to create a short video to go with the article in the Online Edition of Presence. Because Rabbi Rami was so generous with his time, and our conversation so fascinating, it ended up going for almost an hour. We talked about spiritual companionship, when our own beliefs and worldviews get in the way of doing this work, Mysticism, embracing the shadow and evil within ourselves, and the necessity of our spiritual work in a rapidly changing world. So in this podcast episode we are releasing the entirety of our conversation. Rabbi Rami is delightful to listen to and I hope you enjoy it. Presence is the flagship publication of SDI. It comes out four times a year, and is an international journal on spiritual direction and companionship. Presence Journal is available in print and on the web to SDI Members.  Read the current issue on the web, with exclusive video interviews, here: Presence - 28.2 - June 2022 - SDI Companions Become a Member of SDI by clicking here: SDI Membership - Join the Community of Spiritual Companions (sdicompanions.org) Rabbi Rami Shapiro is an award-winning teacher and author of over thirty-six books on religion and spirituality. A rabbinic chaplain with the U.S. Air Force for three years, a congregational rabbi for twenty years, and a professor of religious studies for ten years, Rabbi Rami currently codirects the One River Foundation, a 501(c)3 educational institution devoted to perennial wisdom (www.oneriverfoundation.org). Rami is also a Contributing Editor at Spirituality and Health magazine where he writes the Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler column for the print magazine, the Spirituality &amp; column for the digital magazine, and hosts the magazine’s bi-weekly podcast, Spirituality &amp; Health with Rabbi Rami (www.spiritualityhealth.com). Rami's personal website is www.rabbirami.com

Recently I had the amazing opportunity to chat with author and teacher <a href="http://www.rabbirami.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rabbi Rami Shapiro</a>, who has written an article for <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/media/presence/presence-28-2-june-2022/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Presence Journal </a>– the SDI quarterly publication on spiritual direction and companionship. It was meant to just be a quick 15 minute conversation that I could use to create a short video to go with the article in the Online Edition of Presence. Because Rabbi Rami was so generous with his time, and our conversation so fascinating, it ended up going for almost an hour. We talked about spiritual companionship, when our own beliefs and worldviews get in the way of doing this work, Mysticism, embracing the shadow and evil within ourselves, and the necessity of our spiritual work in a rapidly changing world. So in this podcast episode we are releasing the entirety of our conversation. Rabbi Rami is delightful to listen to and I hope you enjoy it. Presence is the flagship publication of SDI. It comes out four times a year, and is an international journal on spiritual direction and companionship. Presence Journal is available in print and on the web to SDI Members.  Read the current issue on the web, with exclusive video interviews, here: <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/media/presence/presence-27-4-december-2021/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Presence - 28.2 - June 2022 - SDI Companions</a> Become a Member of SDI by clicking here: <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/become-a-member/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Membership - Join the Community of Spiritual Companions (sdicompanions.org)</a> Rabbi Rami Shapiro is an award-winning teacher and author of over thirty-six books on religion and spirituality. A rabbinic chaplain with the U.S. Air Force for three years, a congregational rabbi for twenty years, and a professor of religious studies for ten years, Rabbi Rami currently codirects the One River Foundation, a 501(c)3 educational institution devoted to perennial wisdom (<a href="http://www.oneriverfoundation.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.oneriverfoundation.org</a>). Rami is also a Contributing Editor at Spirituality and Health magazine where he writes the Roadside Assistance for the Spiritual Traveler column for the print magazine, the Spirituality &amp; column for the digital magazine, and hosts the magazine’s bi-weekly podcast, Spirituality &amp; Health with Rabbi Rami (<a href="http://rabbirami.com/%22http:/www.spiritualityhealth.com/%22" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.spiritualityhealth.com</a>). Rami's personal website is <a href="http://www.rabbirami.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.rabbirami.com</a>

EP133 - Rabbi Rami Shapiro - Wandering the Pathless Land

Rev SeiFu

Executive Director Rev SeiFu Anil Singh-Molares and Matt Whitney have a conversation in which they debrief the 2022 Engage Conference, which took place May 11-15 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. What were the takeaways? What were the lessons learned? How do we continue to engage with the theme 'Engage' as we go about our spiritual direction and spiritual companionship work in the world? If you missed the conference, you can still catch up by purchasing access to all the conference recordings - 10 dynamic speakers and  32 diverse workshops totaling over 55 hours of content on contemplative action and spiritual direction and companionship. Available Now - SDI Conference Recordings (sdicompanions.org)

Executive Director Rev SeiFu Anil Singh-Molares and Matt Whitney have a conversation in which they debrief the 2022 Engage Conference, which took place May 11-15 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. What were the takeaways? What were the lessons learned? How do we continue to engage with the theme 'Engage' as we go about our spiritual direction and spiritual companionship work in the world? If you missed the conference, you can still catch up by purchasing access to all the conference recordings - 10 dynamic speakers and  32 diverse workshops totaling over 55 hours of content on contemplative action and spiritual direction and companionship. Available Now - <a href="https://www.sdicompanions.org/product/engage-2022-conference-recordings/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SDI Conference Recordings (sdicompanions.org)</a>

EP132 - Engage 2022 Conference Debrief with Rev SeiFu

I really enjoyed this particular episode, as a walker myself.  The topic of pilgrimage refreshed my understanding of sacred experiences.  I observe Matt as much more comfortable as an interviewer - more familiar  with spiritual direction/companionship, to the point of contributing his own relevant stories.

Episode 62

What are the big questions in your life? Where are you on the spiritual journey? Do you have people in your life who listen to your deepest questions, with contemplative presence and compassion? SDI Creative Director Matt Whitney hosts conversations on spiritual direction, guidance, contemplation, and community. This podcast offers a wide range of perspectives, stories, and conversations about the contemplative, healing modality of spiritual companionship, across a wide range of religious traditions and vocations. Discover the benefits of spiritual companionship and deep listening.

SDI Encounters

Eric Massanari, M.Div., is an ordained pastor in the Mennonite Church USA, living in Newton, Kansas where he serves as a spiritual director and the chaplain of a continuing care community for older adults. He serves on the SDI Coordinating Council, where he brings a passion for inter-faith learning, community building, and companioning people who are exploring the fertile ground of elderhood and those who are nearing the end of life. An avid poet and essayist, and a personal good friend. Eric joined me for a conversation about his work as a spiritual companion, which we’ve turned into two episodes. The first one, here, touches on curiosity – which here I would define as a posture of listening that is genuinely inquisitive and engaged with someone they are listening to. And not just curious about what that person is saying or thinking or feeling, but curious also about the ways the listener finds themselves responding to what they are receiving. Part 2 of this conversation will come out in our next episode, where we focus on the topic of death and companioning people at end of life.  --- Support for this week’s podcast comes from SDI’s upcoming contemplative writing retreat, called: Writing at the Edge of the World, June 15th through June 19th, 2020, on beautiful Orcas Island in Washington State, USA. Led by award-winning writer Tania Casselle, and NEA Fellow and Zen Teacher Sean Murphy, this retreat is designed to meet you wherever you are on your creative journey. You’ll leave with a notebook full of writing, and a fresh set of tools to invigorate your creative voice. Learn more on our homepage, sdiworld.org – and you’ll find the Writers Workshop in the homepage slider.

Eric Massanari, M.Div., is an ordained pastor in the Mennonite Church USA, living in Newton, Kansas where he serves as a spiritual director and the chaplain of a continuing care community for older adults. <a href="https://www.sdiworld.org/about-us/servant-leaders/coordinating-council" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">He serves on the SDI Coordinating Council</a>, where he brings a passion for inter-faith learning, community building, and companioning people who are exploring the fertile ground of elderhood and those who are nearing the end of life. An avid poet and essayist, and a personal good friend. Eric joined me for a conversation about his work as a spiritual companion, which we’ve turned into two episodes. The first one, here, touches on curiosity – which here I would define as a posture of listening that is genuinely inquisitive and engaged with someone they are listening to. And not just curious about what that person is saying or thinking or feeling, but curious also about the ways the listener finds themselves responding to what they are receiving. Part 2 of this conversation will come out in our next episode, where we focus on the topic of death and companioning people at end of life. --- Support for this week’s podcast comes from SDI’s upcoming contemplative writing retreat, called: Writing at the Edge of the World, June 15th through June 19th, 2020, on beautiful Orcas Island in Washington State, USA. Led by award-winning writer Tania Casselle, and NEA Fellow and Zen Teacher Sean Murphy, this retreat is designed to meet you wherever you are on your creative journey. You’ll leave with a notebook full of writing, and a fresh set of tools to invigorate your creative voice. <a href="https://www.sdiworld.org/events/special-events/writing-retreat" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Learn more on our homepage, sdiworld.org – and you’ll find the Writers Workshop in the homepage slider.</a>

EP056 - The Practice of Curiosity in Spiritual Companionship - Eric Massanari - Part 1

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