Ministry Class Update

It has been an excellent week in the "Spirituality of Ministry" class that I'm taking through Fuller Seminary. There are about 25 students from four countries, 13 states and about 18 denominations present. Several of them are on sabbatical as I am. Our class sessions typically go from 8:30 to noon, 1 p.m. to 3:30, and 7 - 9 p.m. This evening, Christian author Jan Johnson came and talked about scripture meditation and led us through an exercise in Ignatian prayer -- very rich and meaningful!

Jan Johnson (center) and some fellow students



















We are sharing breakfast, lunch and dinner at the retreat center each day and are enjoying many conversations, not to mention some great meals! Our class camaraderie is growing each day; tonight (Thursday), several of us who went to catch the Laker game and some dinner.

Did I mention the Lakers won?



















I think I forgot to mention that the class is taking place at the Mater Dolorosa Retreat Center in Sierra Madre. The center is located at the very base of the San Gabriel Mountains and is literally the last property before the mountain wilderness area begins. The center has several beautiful gardens, a lovely chapel, and is adjacent to a variety of trail heads that lead into the mountains (yes, I have enjoyed running on them!)

The Mater Dolorosa Retreat Center (from the mountain trail)


















Self Portrait above the Retreat Center (It was quite a jog to get to this view)



















My Attempt at an Artsy Picture