Upcoming Programs

Tuesday, March 13 Transforming Leadership Series Transforming Leadership is a four-part series providing deep, experiential learning to bring about personal, organizational, and community change. Time-honored lessons of spirituality and the wisdom of leading thinkers in shaping livable communities are pillars of this work. You’ll experience skill building and deep reflection to reinforce the courage to lead from your authentic center. From this grounded place, you can more appropriately move between the necessary role of manager—one who organizes; and the essential role of leader—one who fosters relatedness across boundaries; and brings forth the gifts of others. This program is partially underwritten by a grant from The Generous Promise Fund of the Congregation of St. Joseph. We encourage pairs of co-workers to register so skills learned can be honed between sessions. Session 1: Creating the Structure of Belonging with Peter Block Tuesday, March 13; 9am – 3pm See description above. Session 2: Choosing the Possible Friday, June 8; 9am – 4pm Led by Jean Johnson and Mary Heintzkill How will your life be different if it is more oriented toward the possible? Our problem solving models tend to focus on the past, yet the past is an increasingly unreliable indicator of the future. To be effective leaders in today’s reality we must focus on the present and how our choices can lead to an alternative future, one ripe with possibility. Session 3: The Gift of Leading from Your Core Friday, September 14; 9am – 4pm Led by Rev. Doug Vernon and Christine Parks, CSJ What is the story you most often tell about your organization, and what payoff do you get from its repetition? What does clinging to this story cost you? Recognize your gifts and those of others more clearly by recognizing, developing and operating from the core of who you are. Session 4: Moving to Action—What Have I learned? Noon, Friday, December 7 through noon, Saturday, December 8 Led by Thomas Beech, Christine Parks, CSJ and Michele Gossman How can I build on what I have learned in these sessions... About myself, my work world, and the atmosphere I create with others... About the stories that define my life... About the concrete possibilities open to me and my organization... And how can I find the courage to act on this? “The question of what we can create together is at the intersection of possibility and accountability.” ~Peter Block Participation is limited and chosen based upon submitted applications. For an invitation to the online application, please send a request email to leadership@transformationscenter.org. Applications are due March 30, however applicants must attend the March 13 Creating the Structure of Belonging program to qualify. Registration includes the programs, meals and overnight room on December 7, 2012. Parcicipants must attend all four programs in the series. Registration is $325 if application is completed by February 15; $385 after Please pay for the Peter Block program seperately. For those accepted into the Transforming Leadership program, payment made for Peter Block ($85/$100) will be credited toward dollars owed for the series ($325/$385). Payments for the Transforming Leadership program will not be taken until accepted into the program. (PayPal payments made prior will be refunded and checks will be held.)

Friday, April 20 through Sunday, April 22 Living From Within: The Journey toward an Undivided Life 2011-12 Circle of Trust October 21-23, 2011; January 13-15, 2012; April 20-22, 2012 and June 29-July 1, 2012 (a series of four retreats) Marianne Novak Houston Comments from past participants... "It always exceeds my expectations. It is the primary way that I disconnect with life’s mystery and gain clearness around my questions." "It is one of the most respectful processes I have experienced. Courage & Renewal is what I come away with." "Just wonderful to come away and be led by such a sensitive, brilliant woman." "Thank you Marianne for a very special experience. I have been very moved by all of our activities and especially the clearness committees." The more passionate we are about our life and work, the more vital it is that we take time to renew our own spirits – to reconnect with the wellsprings of our service to others. In this series of four retreats we will focus on the rejoining of soul and role, on reconnecting who we are with what we do. The focus is neither on techniques nor skills required in our work, but on renewing our inner lives. Using individual, small and large group formats, poetry, archetypal and personal stories, we will address basic life questions which, though they are personal and private, are often deeply instructive when shared in a “circle of trust.” This series, led in the spirit of the work of Parker Palmer, is open to those interested in participating in the four seasonal retreats during which a “courage community” will form. In this environment of trust the deep work of soul is given voice. This is the approach which has proven transformational for the numerous participants in these circles which Marianne has led throughout the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Asia. More comments from past participants... "The facility and atmosphere are outstanding. I am so grateful to be able to come to Nazareth - to escape the pressures of everyday life and just be still. The grounds are lovely – what a gift! I also appreciate being welcomed to the Sunday liturgy with the sisters." "The retreat lead me to great new growth!" "This retreat reminded me to stay grounded and to seek what will make me happy." "It’s an outstanding environment-thank you. Imagine if these walls could speak - the history of the Sisters in this community room, the joy of the Sharing Community with the Living from Within members." Learn more about the "courage work" and personal growth experienced during the Living from Within retreats during this interview with Linda Novak Houston and Linda Powell, two participants from Parker Palmer's orignial courage program for teachers. Registration costs include a private air-conditioned guest room with bathroom, meals, snacks, spacious grounds to walk, and time to “be.” Bring a journal, writing materials, and clothing appropriate for variable indoor and outdoor temperatures. Check in between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. on the first day of each of the four retreat weekends. Space is limited so register early. Registration for this program is closed. A 2012-13 circle is forming.

Monday, May 14 through Sunday, May 20 Conference & Directed Retreats - May These retreats begin at 2pm on Monday and end with the noon meal on Sunday. The Congregation of St. Joseph invites you to join them in one of their retreats held throughout the summer. All of the retreat directors are trained and experienced in spiritual and retreat direction. Guided Conference Retreat During a conference retreat, retreatants meet as a group with the director usually twice each day. Some directors also have an optional evening gathering. “Finding God in Our Human Experience: An Incarnational Spirituality” with Br. Michael Laratonda, FMS This retreat will focus on our call to “live out of” the Incarnation as we find God at work, and “at play,” in our daily lives. Themes considered: from doubt to faith; from loneliness to love; from injustice to justice; from desolation to consolation; from suffering to hope/joy; and more. Retreatants are encouraged to bring a notebook or journal and a Bible. Directed Retreat During directed retreats, the retreatant will meet each day with their retreat director. Suggestions for prayer are based on the individual’s personal needs and where they are in their spiritual journey. Shorter retreats, 3-4 days, may also be scheduled depending on availability of directors. $460 when registration is paid by March 14, $490 after Registration includes a private room with bath, meals and retreat direction. Please register by April 14 When registering, please indicate if you would like to attend the Conference or Directed retreat. Conference & Directed Retreats are also offered: June 10-16, 2012 August 20-26, 2012 We are also hosting an Intesive Centering Prayer Retreat July 8-13.

Saturday, May 19 Watercolor: The Free Flow of Letting Go 9:00 am - 3:30 pm     Frankie Dutil, CSJ Registration for the Watercolor program is full. Additional registrations will be put on a waiting list in case we have any cancellations. Our spiritual traditions bring us to the truth that the deeper beauty and substance of life often emerges when we stop grasping and struggling for control in our lives. Watercolor painting is a truly experiential metaphor for the spiritual journey. This medium defies precise control yet yields wonderful results when we are able to let go. Prior experience with watercolor is not necessary to enjoy this day. Beginners will learn basic techniques, so whether you have previous experience, or just want to try watercolor for the first time—come, and let yourself go! Register early – participation is limited to 14 to allow individual work with the presenter. Payment is due with registration to guarantee your place. $75 when registration is paid by April 27, $85 after Registration includes program, materials and lunch. Please register by May 9

Sunday, June 10 through Saturday, June 16 Conference & Directed Retreats - June These retreats begin at 2pm on Sunday and end with the noon meal on Saturday. The Congregation of St. Joseph invites you to join them in one of their retreats held throughout the summer. All of the retreat directors are trained and experienced in spiritual and retreat direction. Conference Retreat During a conference retreat, retreatants meet as a group with the director usually twice each day. Some directors also have an optional evening gathering. “Religious Life: The Vowed Life, After Vatican II; Community: A Sacred Place to Meet God; Community for Better or for Worst” with Fr. Charlie Smiech, OFM Religious Life has radically changed over the years for both the young and well-seasoned person. Our time together will invite us to look at this history, review the present day and encourage us to “walk in hope” together toward a future that is both uncertain and spirit-filled. All of this will be done in the context of the CSJ charism, “that all may be one.” Directed Retreat During directed retreats, the retreatant will meet each day with their retreat director. Suggestions for prayer are based on the individual’s personal needs and where they are in their spiritual journey. Shorter retreats, 3-4 days, may also be scheduled depending on availability of directors. $460 when registration is paid by April 10, $490 after Registration includes a private room with bath, meals and retreat direction. Please register by May 10 When registering, please indicate if you would like to attend the Conference or Directed retreat. Conference & Directed Retreats are also offered: May 14-20, 2012 August 20-26, 2012 We are also hosting an Intesive Centering Prayer Retreat July 8-13.

Thursday, June 21 2012 Voices of Wisdom Dinner with Paula D'Arcy 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm     Paula D'Arcy Join us for our 3rd annual Voices of Wisdom fund raising dinner with Paula D’Arcy. Proceeds from the event help support the growth of the ministry and participants like you. According to past Voices of Wisdom speaker Fr. Richard Rohr, “Paula D’Arcy is a true second half of life teacher.” Following her family’s tragedy, Paula developed the Red Bird Foundation to support the growth and spiritual development of those in need. She has also authored eight books and a one-act play, “On My Way Home.” A much sought speaker; Paula travels extensively to churches, seminaries and retreat centers with her message of hope, healing and courage. Learn more about Paula D’Arcy at her web site www.redbirdfoundation.com. Paula wil be leading a full day program "Crossing Thresholds" the following day, Friday, June 22. Registration is $125 per person Registration includes dinner and a signed copy of one of Paula's books. The tax deductible donation value is $90.

Friday, June 22 Crossing Thresholds with Paula D’Arcy 2012 Voices of Wisdom Presentation 9:00 am - 3:00 pm     Paula D'Arcy In 1975 she survived a drunk driving accident which took the lives of her husband and two year-old daughter. Pregnant at the time of the accident, Paula later gave birth to their second daughter. Meet Paula D’Arcy and hear her message of hope, healing and courage. Life is full of change and the continual challenge to grow up. In spite of that our hearts remain determined to find guarantees and security. How do we stop resisting life’s force and flow and learn to step across the thresholds to our own growth? Which is greater in your own life, fear or love? Who would you be if you were no longer afraid? What would you know if your beliefs no longer limited you? Join us for our 3rd annual Voices of Wisdom presentation. It will be an inspiring day spent with Paula D’Arcy, President of the Red Bird Foundation, which supports the growth and spiritual development of those in need; author of eight books and a one-act play called, On My Way Home. A much sought speaker; Paula travels extensively to churches, seminaries and retreat centers with her message of hope, healing and courage. She has also worked with our first Voices of Wisdom speaker Fr. Richard Rohr and Morrie Schwartz of the award-winning book Tuesdays with Morrie. $50 when registration is paid by May 25, $60 after Registration includes materials, program and lunch. Please register by June 4 Work with Fr. Richard Rohr “Paula D’Arcy is a true second half of life teacher. Her work and experiences are a beacon for those of us striving to live a full life along the journey.” ~Richard Rohr Both Richard and Paula believe that much personal and church confusion could be helped by clearly distinguishing the tasks of the two halves of life. Their views are available as a presentation on a CD titled "Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life." About Paula's Work Learn more about the Red Bird Foundation at her web site redbirdfoundation.com. Spirituality & Practice has named her a "Living Spiritual Teacher." Extend your visit into a retreat. Overnight guest rooms are available for $48 single occupancy, $64 double occupancy. Please reserve your room when you register for the program so we're sure to have a room available. Dine with Paula Thursday night Join Paula and guests for a Voices of Wisdom fundraising dinner the evening before this program - Thursday, June 21.

Sunday, July 8 through Friday, July 13 Intensive Centering Prayer Retreat Begins Sunday at 6:30 pm and continues through 4:00 pm Friday Kathryn Ann Kobelinski, SSND A Centering Prayer retreat invites us to go more deeply into the silence and stillness, which facilitates our openness and consent to God’s presence in our lives, and greater attentiveness to God’s Word. This retreat will include growth in the contemplative dimension of the Gospel through several periods of Centering Prayer each day, along with viewing of Thomas Keating’s video lecture series on the contemplative dimension of the spiritual journey. This program is presented in collaboration with Contemplative Outreach of West Michigan. Prior Centering Prayer Retreat experience is required. Registration includes program, meals and ovenight accommodations in a private bed and bathroom. $465 when $50 non-refundable deposit is paid by June 1, $500 after

Thursday, July 26 Men's Spirituality & the Two Halves of Life 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm     Rev. James O'Leary and Rev. Jim Dyke “What is a normal goal to a young person becomes a neurotic hindrance in old age.” ~Carl Jung Join us for this thought provoking summer evening with Fr. Jim O’Leary & Rev. Jim Dyke and their ongoing conversation on Men’s Spirituality. The theme for this evening is spiritual growth and development; a conversation on the two halves of life. Some of the questions they will explore include: ~Do we see our spiritual journey differently as we progress thru life? ~How would we describe our spiritual homework for the first half of life – and for the second half of life? ~Where and when do the two halves connect? ~Can the disappointments and failures of the first half of life be foundations for the joys of later life? Wherever you are in your spiritual journey you will find this evening engaging and well spent. $35 with paid registration by July 5; $40 after Registration includes program and a sandwich supper. Please register by July 12

Monday, August 20 through Sunday, August 26 Conference & Directed Retreats - August These retreats begin at 2pm on Monday and end with the noon meal on Sunday. The Congregation of St. Joseph invites you to join them in one of their retreats held throughout the summer. All of the retreat directors are trained and experienced in spiritual and retreat direction. Conference Retreat During a conference retreat, retreatants meet as a group with the director usually twice each day. Some directors also have an optional evening gathering. Holy Sorority with Fr. Alfred Naseman, CPPS This retreat will connect with some of the Godly women of the Christian Bible – Chole, Phoebe, Lydia, Priscilla and Peter’s Wife. Among the unique features of this retreat is that “Momma God” prayers will be used throughout. *The Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1994, #370 indicates that God, of course, is beyond gender, but we can use gender in praying to God – Mother and Father both appropriate. The retreat director will imitate St. Paul who in 1 Thessalonians says “We were gentle among you as a nursing mother cares for her children.” Directed Retreat During directed retreats, the retreatant will meet each day with their retreat director. Suggestions for prayer are based on the individual’s personal needs and where they are in their spiritual journey. Shorter retreats, 3-4 days, may also be scheduled depending on availability of directors. $460 when registration is paid by June 20, $490 after Registration includes a private room with bath, meals and retreat direction. Please register by July 20 When registering, please indicate if you would like to attend the Conference or Directed retreat. Conference & Directed Retreats are also offered: May 14-20, 2012 June 10-16, 2012 We are also hosting an Intesive Centering Prayer Retreat July 8-13.

Saturday, August 25 The Art & Prayer of Journaling 9:00 am - 12:00 pm     Christine Parks, CSJ “Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands…” Isaiah 49:16 Since the invention of writing people have engaged in the art and practice of journaling; recording meaningful thoughts, feelings and experiences for personal and spiritual reflection. Some of the most inspiring journaling has come from those seeking to understand and deepen their relationship with the sacred. If you’ve thought about beginning a spiritual journal, but put it off; if you’ve begun, but put it aside; if you’re a disciplined journal writer and want some time away—this morning is for you. It will include time for prayer, reflection; sharing of methods, resources and suggestions; as well as quiet time to engage in your own conversation with the Holy. Bring your journal and a favorite pen. $35 with registration paid by August 3; $40 after Please register by August 13

Wednesday, August 29 Group Spiritual Direction Orientation 6:30 am - 8:30 pm     Gertrude Maurer, CSJ and Christine Parks, CSJ Whether you are racing through your busy day or sitting quietly in prayer, Spiritual Direction can assist you in becoming more aware of the many ways God is present with you, and reaches out to you in your daily life. Your time in Spiritual Direction can help you realize how the Spirit is speaking to and through you. Because they’re now more aware of their actions Spiritual Directees often experience an easier time discerning direction in life’s difficult and ordinary times and move toward achieving greater consistency between deeply held values and the actions they take. Spiritual Direction conversations cover topics like the most significant event over the last month and where directees have seen movement within their life. The Spiritual Direction discussions can be shared during one-on-one meetings with a Spiritual Director, called Individual Spiritual Direction, or as a group, Group Spiritual Direction. Group Spiritual Direction is facilitated by a trained spiritual director and takes place in a small group setting. It provides the benefit of shared insights and broadened perspectives among the group. Orientation is a pre-requisite for those new to the group process. Orientation for Group Spiritual Direction Wednesday, August 29; 6:30–8:30 p.m. Led by: Gertrude Maurer, CSJ and Christine Parks, CSJ This orientation session provides an introduction to the Group Spiritual Direction process along with the opportunity to experience the process. It is a prerequisite for those new to Group Spiritual Direction, and may lead to the formation of new groups or placement in ongoing groups. This program will be offered again January 25, 2013. $5 with registration paid by August 20; $10 after Please register by August 24

Friday, October 12 Making Sense of Our Experience Public Reading & Conversation 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm     Mark Nepo Mark Nepo, a gifted writer, poet and philosopher will share readings from some of his works and egage us in conversation around life questions of loving, suffering and staying on the path. Nepo has taught in the fields of poetry and spirituality for over thirty-five years. A New York Times #1 bestselling author, he has published thirteen books and recorded eight audio projects. About his new book As Far As the Heart Can See, Publishers Weekly said, “Nepo is a consummate storyteller with a rare gift for making the invisible visible.” The cover for this book is a print by woodblock artist Mary Brodbeck, also from Kalamazoo. During 2011, Mark sat down for his second interview with Oprah Winfrey as part of her SIRIUS XM Radio show, Soul Series, and was interviewed by Robin Roberts on Good Morning America about his New York Times bestseller The Book of Awakening. Follow Mark's posts at The Huffington Post. $25 registration if paid by September 14; $30 after Please register by September 28

Friday, October 12 through Saturday, October 13 Making Sense of Our Experience Retreat: Surviving and Thriving Mark Nepo The retreat begins at 7pm Friday night with the public reading and continues through 5pm Saturday. In this retreat, Mark will explore the paradox of being a spirit in the world and offer ways to meet and learn from the teacher that is experience. Just how do we meet the outer world with our inner world while inhabiting our compassion and integrity? How do we face and hold the suffering and love that waits in a Universe that precedes us and outlives us? How do we move through the days with an authenticity that lets us befriend our deepest gifts? This requires the deepest forms of listening, so we can decipher the language of our own wisdom. When we accept experience as our teacher, the wisdom of being worn open leads us to the untapped resources that join us to the larger world and the life-force we all share. Sessions include: The Practice of Being Human, What Do We Do with What We Feel, The Magic of Peace, and Wandering Authentically. The retreat experience will include participation in Friday night's public reading and conversation. Mark Nepo is a poet and philosopher who has taught in the fields of poetry and spirituality for over thirty-five years. A New York Times #1 bestselling author, he has published thirteen books and recorded eight audio projects. About his new book As Far As the Heart Can See, Publishers Weekly said, “Nepo is a consummate storyteller with a rare gift for making the invisible visible.” The cover for this book is a print by woodblock artist Mary Brodbeck, also from Kalamazoo. During 2011, Mark sat down for his second interview with Oprah Winfrey as part of her SIRIUS XM Radio show, Soul Series, and was interviewed by Robin Roberts on Good Morning America about his New York Times bestseller The Book of Awakening. Follow Mark's posts at The Huffington Post. $175 with $25 non-refundable deposit paid by September 14; $185 after Registration includes program, meals and overnight accommodations. Please register by September 28

Friday, October 26 through Monday, October 28 Living From Within: The Journey toward an Undivided Life 2012-13 Circle of Trust A series of four retreats: Oct. 26-28, 2012; Feb. 1-3, 2013; April 19-21, 2013 and June 28-30, 2013 Marianne Novak Houston Comments from past participants... "It always exceeds my expectations. It is the primary way that I disconnect with life’s mystery and gain clearness around my questions." "It is one of the most respectful processes I have experienced. Courage & Renewal is what I come away with." "Just wonderful to come away and be led by such a sensitive, brilliant woman." "Thank you Marianne for a very special experience. I have been very moved by all of our activities and especially the clearness committees." The more passionate we are about our life and work, the more vital it is that we take time to renew our own spirits – to reconnect with the wellsprings of our service to others. In this series of four retreats we will focus on the rejoining of soul and role, on reconnecting who we are with what we do. The focus is neither on techniques nor skills required in our work, but on renewing our inner lives. Using individual, small and large group formats, poetry, archetypal and personal stories, we will address basic life questions which, though they are personal and private, are often deeply instructive when shared in a “circle of trust.” This series, led in the spirit of the work of Parker Palmer, is open to those interested in participating in the four seasonal retreats during which a “courage community” will form. In this environment of trust the deep work of soul is given voice. This is the approach which has proven transformational for the numerous participants in these circles which Marianne has led throughout the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Asia. More comments from past participants... "The facility and atmosphere are outstanding. I am so grateful to be able to come to Nazareth - to escape the pressures of everyday life and just be still. The grounds are lovely – what a gift! I also appreciate being welcomed to the Sunday liturgy with the sisters." "The retreat lead me to great new growth!" "This retreat reminded me to stay grounded and to seek what will make me happy." "It’s an outstanding environment-thank you. Imagine if these walls could speak - the history of the Sisters in this community room, the joy of the Sharing Community with the Living from Within members." Learn more about the "courage work" and personal growth experienced during the Living from Within retreats during this YouTube interview with Linda Novak Houston and Linda Powell, two participants from Parker Palmer's orignal Courage to Teach program. Registration costs include a private air-conditioned guest room with bathroom, meals, snacks, spacious grounds to walk, and time to “be.” Bring a journal, writing materials, and clothing appropriate for variable indoor and outdoor temperatures. Check in between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. on the first day of each of the four retreat weekends. Register by September 21 and save. When paid before September 21, the non-refundable registration deposit is $240. When paid after September 21, the non-refundable registration deposit is $360. Balance of $230 due upon arrival for each of the four weekends. Registration & deposit must be received by October 12, 2012.