Patricia D. Fosarelli , M.D., D. Min.
Assistant Dean, The Ecumenical Institute of Theology
at St. Mary's Seminary Baltimore, Maryland
Understand Catholic Spiritual Practices As Never Before
What is spirituality? What makes Christian spirituality distinctive? What is the range of Christian spiritual practices and which ones will help you to spiritually grow and potentially help others to grow? How can Catholic spiritual practices enrich your life today?
Through this unique lecture series, pastoral theologian, spiritual director, and physician Dr. Pat Fosarelli answers these questions and many more while expertly guiding you through the life-changing world of Christian spirituality. Whether a beginner or an experienced practitioner, a parishioner or a minister, you are sure to enjoy and benefit from this unique series.
What You’ll Explore
Christian spiritual practices are as vital today as ever before in the 2,000-year Christian tradition. But much of what passes for "spirituality" in various media has little to do with time-honored Christian views of spirituality; much "secular" spirituality is either egocentric or "feel good" in nature.
Throughout this course, Dr. Fosarelli underscores the God-centricity of Christian spirituality drawing from her unique background as an experienced spiritual director, scholar, lay minister and physician.
Over 2,000 years, Christians have developed a rich range of practices and traditions. Although you may be familiar with some of these practices, you will no doubt discover some with which you are less familiar. Practices are drawn from the Roman Catholic tradition but are carefully explained for all listeners.
Starting with a firm grounding in Christian spirituality, each subsequent session describes a particular practice – highlighting what it is, how it is done, obstacles to embracing it, and the benefits of faithful adherence to it. Helpful real-world examples are provided to show you how you can try new practices. Common beliefs (true and erroneous) and frequently experienced obstacles are expertly examined. As an award-winning teacher, Dr. Fosarelli uses easy-to-understand language that both beginners and experienced practitioners will find helpful and enlightening.
This series concludes with an exploration of the importance of the body and mind in spiritual life. As a physician as well as a pastoral theologian, Dr. Fosarelli makes connections you will find both fascinating and practical.
This unique series is an excellent resource for anyone who desires to grow in his or her relationship with God. Listening for just one-half hour per day, while commuting, running errands, exercising or at home, you will discover new spiritual practices and habits you can adopt immediately.
About the Speaker
Dr. Pat Fosarelli is a physician, a theologian, and a lay minister. She received her M.D. from the University of Maryland, M.A. in Theology from St. Mary’s Seminary and her D.Min. from Wesley Theological Seminary. She teaches spirituality and practical theology at the Ecumenical Institute of Theology at St. Mary’s, and is a part-time faculty member in the Department of Pediatrics at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She has authored several books, including the Family Ministry Desk Reference. A recipient of multiple teaching awards, Dr. Fosarelli frequently addresses both lay and religious audiences.
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Topics: 25 minutes per topic.
- Spirituality
- Spiritual Development I
- Spiritual Development II
- Reading Scripture and “lectio divina”
- Devotional Reading
- Praying Alone
- Praying with Others
- Retreats
- Meditation, Centering Prayer, Contemplation, Breath Prayer
- Silence, Stillness, and Contemplation
- Simplicity
- Fasting
- Keeping Sabbath
- Modern Spiritual Practices
- Keeping a Journal
- Spiritual Friendship: Spiritual Guidance; Spiritual Direction
- Discernment
- Integrity
- Forgiveness, Reconciliation, & Peacemaking
- Spiritual Works of Mercy
- Works of Charity & Corporal Works of Mercy
- The Importance of the Body in Spiritual Health
- The Importance of the Mind in Spiritual Health
- Adopting a Spiritual Lifestyle: Putting it All Together
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