February 25 – March 18, 2026
Course Description
This course will provide an experiential method for using writing as a spiritual practice and a way to cary grief and move towards healing, particularly in a group setting. Participants will respond to a variety of creative prompts and exercises, sharing as desired, and offering positive responses to one another's writing in a supportive and structured environment. Coursework will also include the theory behind the workshop, and how it offers a pathway to reflection on resurrection and life after loss. The goal is not to become a better writer, but to use expressive writing to listen for the Holy Spirit's wisdom and invitation to new life. Participants will acquire skills to hold similar space in church or community groups for bereavement support and/or spiritual practice groups. No writing experience is needed, and familiarity with any form of grief or loss is welcome.
Location
Online
Facilitator
Rev. Julie Hester
Julie Hester is a writer and PC(USA) pastor in western North Carolina. A graduate of Union Presbyterian Seminary and the former Presbyterian School of Christian Education, she has served churches of all sizes for over 30 years, with an emphasis on faith formation. Julie is a bereaved mother, curriculum writer, certified writing facilitator with Amherst Writers & Artists, retreat leader, and beginner banjo player. Find her at
juliehester.com and her weekly writing prompts at
writingincompany.substack.com.
Schedule
Weekly Zoom meetings will take place on Wednesdays, February 25, March 4, 11, and 18, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM ET.
Readings and discussion forums will be available on the course site for you to engage with at your own pace.
Attendance
Weekly readings and forum discussions are asynchronous, but attendance at all Zoom sessions is mandatory. Please note that Zoom meetings will not be recorded.
Participants must be comfortable using technology, as this course is hosted online though the course site (Moodle) and Zoom meetings.
Program Fee
The program fee is $220.
All balances are due February 11, 2026. Cancelations must be received before February 11, 2026, to receive a refund of the program fee minus the $50 non-refundable deposit.
Additional Information
What to Expect
You will receive login information for the course site approximately two weeks before the course begins. This will allow time to explore the platform and prepare for the weekly rhythm of the course in advance of the start date.
Required Assignment
Participants seeking credit toward the Certificate in Contemplative Spiritual Formation must attend all sessions and complete assignments. You may choose one of the following options:
- Write an integrative paper
- Plan and lead a short workshop in your own context and submit both the project plan and a reflection
The final assignment is due April 18, 2026. All participants are encouraged to submit the assignment to deepen learning and support their spiritual growth.
Required Readings
Required readings will be available on the course site, along with guidance from the instructor.
Registration will close two weeks prior to February 25, 2026, or when registration has reached maximum capacity. Day-of registrations are not permitted.
Contact
