Joining Together

8/19/2017

 SGTI's first Residential Institute in Chicago is now complete and we offer a hearty congratulations to our first cohort for their contributions and efforts. We will gather again with this group in April 2018. For now, our distance learning continues characterized by individual study, one-on-one mentoring, Zoom teachings and peer group experience, interviews with experts in the field, and more.

Our students came from many walks of life. This cohort boasted a teacher/mentor of teachers, a contemplative scientist, a yoga teacher, a spiritual activist, and a Protestant pastor—a truly interfaith/interspiritual collective.  

Their early evaluations of our time together reflected their appreciation of:

• Sangha—spiritual practice and support in community

• Deeper understanding of what spiritual guidance is and how it works; learning the early skills of the practice so they can begin companioning others as "Associate Spiritual Guides"

• How to hold presence for and listen to others from a heart space

• Their own spiritual values and chosen practices

For us, these dedicated individuals embody the spirit of compassionate presence so needed in the world today. We are excited to see where this journey takes them in their own communities and circles of care.