Mindfulness and Christian Practice

April 1-4, 2024

Course Description: Come and rest in God through this unique retreat that explores the intersection of two ancient wisdom practices: Mindfulness and Christian meditation. Participants will explore how the practice of mindfulness can help develop awareness of the present moment, without judgment, in conjunction with the practice of Christian meditation to better attune one's experience of God.

Through guided mindfulness meditation, contemplative prayer and practices like yoga, participants will deepen their understanding and experience of these practices. This retreat is designed to enhance physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.

Regardless of your level of experience or religious background, this retreat is open to anyone interested in exploring the common ground shared by mindfulness and Christian meditation. Whether you are seeking personal growth or professional development, this retreat provides a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of these practices and find rest in God. Join us for an experience of spiritual rejuvenation.

Location: Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center, 6700 Riverside Dr NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

With: Mark Dannenfelser is founding director of the Mindfulness Center of Atlanta and Dannenfelser & Associates, PC. He is a Certified Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Teacher, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Registered Yoga Teacher, and a Certified Spiritual Director. Mark is also adjunct lecturer in the Graduate Division of Theology and Ministry at Spring Hill College, Atlanta, and lecturer on contemplation and centering prayer at the Aquinas Center of Theology at Emory University.

Schedule: The course will begin at 5:30pm on Monday April 1 and conclude on Thursday April 4 at noon. The schedule includes guided meditations with periods of silence, small group conversations and free time to enjoy the beauty of the Ignatius House.

Program Fee: $960

Housing and Meals: Included in the program fee. Housing will consist of 3 nights in a private room with a bathroom. Meals are included beginning with Monday dinner through Thursday lunch. Please note any dietary restrictions or accommodations in the registration form.

Additional Information: Feel free to bring your own equipment but mats and blankets will be available. Please be sure to wear comfortable clothing and to bring walking shoes for our nature walk.

Participants are required to follow any public health guidelines in place at the seminary or host site at the time of the seminar. Columbia Seminary no longer requires outside visitors to provide proof of vaccination. Wearing a mask is always welcome, even if not required.

Required Reading: Christian Meditation: Experiencing the Presence of God by James Finley. New York, New York; Harper Collins, 2004 ISBN 978-0-06-075064

Everyone is welcome to register for this course. If you are taking this for personal enrichment, we invite you to participate fully in the program, discussions, reflections, and integration paper. The paper will be due four weeks following the course and is required for those seeking credit towards the Certificate in Spiritual Formation.

Contact: lifelonglearning@ctsnet.edu