For me, one of the most inviting aspects of Christianity and especially Catholicism, has been the diversity of faith expression and human experience we have received through the lives of the mystics and the saints.
When we reflect on our unique spiritual gifts, we can often find ourselves being drawn to a saint or a mystic who embodied a similar charism. Learning more about how these extraordinary men and women navigated their lives can be inspiring as they serve as role models for living their faith in very personal way.
In this course, you will encounter seven powerful schools of spirituality, discovering what makes each school special and transformative. Under the guidance of celebrated spirituality expert Fr. Anthony Ciorra, you will explore how different religious founders developed new insights and charisms, adapting them to the cultures, times, and needs of different generations. After a general introduction, you will embark into the Egyptian desert to seek the timeless wisdom of the Desert Fathers and Mothers. Making your way to Europe, you will witness the flourishing of monastic spirituality, the radical vision of St. Francis of Assisi, and the powerful preaching of St. Dominic. Your journey continues to Mount Carmel, where you will take in a panoramic view of Carmelite saints like John of the Cross, Teresa of Avila, Thérèse of Lisieux, and Edith Stein.
