Spiritual Direction Training Program

2027 - 2030

The Spiritual Direction Training Program is a three-year (nine-week) program that fosters a diocesan priest’s intimate encounter with the Trinity and deepens his identity as one in relationship with God.

The priest is also introduced to and trained in the dynamics of contemplative spiritual direction so he can exercise discerning awareness in pastoral ministry in general, and in spiritual direction in particular.

Each year includes two teaching weeks (one each spring and winter) and a silent directed retreat centered on prayer with Scripture (each fall).

The teaching weeks include:

  • Seminar-style presentations
  • Reading
  • Small group practicum sessions
  • Daily Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharistic Adoration
  • Time for personal prayer
  • Individual spiritual direction
  • Fraternal sharing

The five key areas of teaching content are:

  • The identity of the priest
  • The dynamics of prayer and conversion
  • The dynamics of inner healing
  • Contemplative listening and spiritual direction
  • The Rules for the Discernment of Spirits

Registration Details

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Register
  • Prospective candidates must submit a complete online registration form.
  • Choose between Section A or Section B after confirming you are fully available for all listed dates.
  • A letter of recommendation must be mailed directly from your Archbishop/Bishop.
  • The program has officially relocated from Mundelein to Grand Coteau Retreats in Louisiana.

Click on the orange “Register” button to access the online registration form and additional details.

2027 - 2030 Program Dates

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The dates for Section A are:

Week #1 April 4 -9, 2027
Week #2 September 26 - October 1 or to October 5, 2027
Week #3 January 9 - 14, 2028
Week #4 April 23 - 28, 2028
Week #5 September 24 - 29 or to October 3, 2028
Week #6 January 7 - 12, 2029
Week #7 April 15 - 20, 2029
Week #8 September 30 - October 5 or to October 9, 2029
Week #9 January 6 - 11, 2030

The dates for Section B are:

Week #1 April 11 - 16, 2027
Week #2 October 10 - 15 or to October 19, 2027
Week #3 January 16 - 21, 2028
Week #4 April 30 - May 5, 2028
Week #5 October 8 - 13 or to October 17, 2028
Week #6 January 14 - 19, 2029
Week #7 April 22 - 27, 2029
Week #8 October 14 - 19 or to October 23, 2029
Week #9 January 13 - 18, 2030