Lectio Divina is a way of praying the Scriptures so that the Word of God may penetrate our hearts. This prayerful practice is a blend of silence and slow, prayerful reading of Scripture.

Occurs every Wednesday from 12:00 - 12:30 pm.

There is no cost or registration for this event.

Chair Yoga uses a chair for greater support and stability within the practice. With an emphasis on the breath, alignment, and taking things at your own pace, Chair Yoga brings simplicity to the practice for easeful connection with the healing and restorative benefits yoga offers.

Yoga begins right where I am –
not where I was yesterday or where I long to be.
– Linda Sparrowe

In each yoga session, experience conscious awareness of breath, observe sensations in the body, notice thoughts, and expand the heart center.

Dominican Center’s yoga sessions create a healing space for all ages, fitness levels, and physical conditions so poses and breath work are accessible to all. For those new to yoga or working with special concerns and injuries, poses are modified and supported with props and detailed instruction for comfort and safety. Props are provided by Dominican Center at no additional cost.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy.

Chair Yoga uses a chair for greater support and stability within the practice. With an emphasis on the breath, alignment, and taking things at your own pace, Chair Yoga brings simplicity to the practice for easeful connection with the healing and restorative benefits yoga offers.

Yoga begins right where I am –
not where I was yesterday or where I long to be.
– Linda Sparrowe

In each yoga session, experience conscious awareness of breath, observe sensations in the body, notice thoughts, and expand the heart center.

Dominican Center’s yoga sessions create a healing space for all ages, fitness levels, and physical conditions so poses and breath work are accessible to all. For those new to yoga or working with special concerns and injuries, poses are modified and supported with props and detailed instruction for comfort and safety. Props are provided by Dominican Center at no additional cost.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

This gentle class offers a peaceful session to gradually build strength and range of motion. With this quiet practice, experience how mindful movement and breath work can deliver much-needed nurturing, rest, and clarity.

The body is my temple, asanas are my prayers.
– BKS Iyengar

Using gentle and mindful movement as well as nourishing breath work, Gentle Yoga encourages softly stretching and strengthening. In each session, experience conscious awareness of breath, observe sensations in the body, notice thoughts, and expand the heart center.

Dominican Center’s yoga sessions create a healing space for all ages, fitness levels, and physical conditions so poses and breath work are accessible to all. For those new to yoga or working with special concerns and injuries, poses are modified and supported with props and detailed instruction for comfort and safety. Props are provided by Dominican Center at no additional cost.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

Calm the mind and nourish the body with Restorative Yoga. Restorative poses are held on a mat and deeply supported with yoga props. The practice seeks to balance the physical, mental, and spiritual while also experiencing profound rest and relaxation.

Don’t practice yoga to get better at yoga; practice yoga to get better at living.
- unknown

Using gentle and mindful movement as well as nourishing breath work, Restorative Yoga encourages softly stretching and strengthening. In each session, experience conscious awareness of breath, observe sensations in the body, notice thoughts, and expand the heart center.

Dominican Center’s yoga sessions create a healing space for all ages, fitness levels, and physical conditions so poses and breath work are accessible to all. For those new to yoga or working with special concerns and injuries, poses are modified and supported with props and detailed instruction for comfort and safety. Props are provided by Dominican Center at no additional cost.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

Join us in community at the We Remember: Interfaith Memorial Event to remember all those we love. In an inspirational and touching evening of music, reflection, prayer, and activities we will celebrate the lives of loved ones who have died.

Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.
- Maya Angelou

Families are welcome and encouraged to attend with their children. If you feel moved to, please bring photos or a memorial item to be displayed at our remembrance table for the evening.

In collaboration with local hospice organizations.

No registration fee.  All are welcome.

In Spiritual Direction Practicum, Part 2, participants go deeper into the realities of their own spiritual journeys, the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, the rules of discernment, the adult maturing of faith using the enneagram, and a celebration of that great cloud of witnesses of Spiritual Giants that remind us of God’s continual presence in this world and our lives.

For more information, please visit our Called to be a Spiritual Director page.

Dates of Sessions:

• September 7, 2018
• September 21, 2018
• October 5, 2018
• October 19, 2018
• November 2, 2018
• November 16, 2018
• November 30, 2018
• December 14, 2018
• January 4, 2019
• January 18, 2019
• February 1, 2019
• February 15, 2019
• March 1, 2019
• March 15, 2019
• April 12, 2019
• April 26, 2019
• May 3, 2019
• May 17, 2019

Through verbally guided exercises, learn how intentional movement can break up habitual patterns and instill new ways of thinking, feeling, and moving.

Our only limitation is our belief that it is so.
– Moshe Feldenkrais

The exercises are non-judgmental, non-competitive, and self-directed so that each person progresses at his or her own pace. Mats and small pillows provided. Wear comfortable clothing. Registration is required due to space limitations.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

Every day 800 million people experience hunger. Hunger for Change explores the realities of food insecurity in the United States and around the world.

There are people in the world so hungry, that God cannot appear to them except in the form of bread.
- Mahatma Gandhi

This is an 8-week, prayerful process that includes study, rich dialogue, and an immersion experience. This process inspires change and action to fully contribute to ending hunger in our local and global communities.

Program meets on Mondays starting at 6:00 pm.

• September 10, 17, 24
• October 1, 8, 15, 22,29

Program developed by JustFaith Ministries.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

The Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius of Loyola form a structure for encountering and loving God more deeply. This adaptation from the 30-Day Ignatian Retreat feeds the hunger of our hearts with the Word of God.

Go Forth and Set the World on Fire
- St. Ignatius of Loyola

Through nine months of prayer, contemplation, and community, participants will explore Ignatius prayer methods and insight into the spiritual through personally meditating with Scripture and engaging in small group conversations and reflection.

Series Dates:

• September 10, 2018
• October 8, 2018
• November 12, 2018
• December 10, 2018
• January 14, 2019
• February 11, 2019
• March 11, 2019
• April 8, 2019
• May 13, 2019

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy.

Spiritual Companioning is a ministry that arises from one’s faith commitment to serve others. The two-year course deepens the sacred presence we offer one another. Through study, writing, group sharing, and prayer, participants cultivate a spiritual sensitivity toward societal and global responsibility. This spiritual formation course intentionally cultivates movement toward community, mutual solidarity, justice, and respect and dignity for all creation.

For more information, please visit our Spiritual Companioning page.

Spiritual Companioning applications:
Spiritual Companioning Application Part A
Spiritual Companioning Application Part B

Dates of Sessions:

• September 11, 2018
• October 16, 2018
• November 13, 2018
• December 18, 2018
• January 15, 2019
• February 19, 2019
• March 19, 2019
• April 9, 2019
• May 14, 2019

Please note the 2018-2019 year has fewer sessions than previous years. This is reflected in the new lower registration cost.

Discover the sacred in each other and in moments of everyday through photography. Being still to frame a moment in time requires us to slow down and to notice. In capturing a photo, the photographer is intentional. When photographing people, we learn to engage, develop trust, connect, and lean into each other.

It's less what the eye sees and more what the soul feels.
- unknown

This program gently guides you in seeing the holy that surround us all. Over 8 sessions, participants of all levels will be guided through artistic and technical skills of camera use; will sharpen their contemplative focus on life and living; and sacred stories of photographs will be shared with one another.  Please bring your camera to each session. Cell phones and cameras are welcomed.

Series Dates

• September 11
• September 25
• October 9
• October 23
• November 13
• November 27
• December 11

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

A spiritual director holds sacred the many stories heard in a one-on-one relationship or in a trusted group. The Spiritual Director Practicum is a formation that depends on the understanding of how the Holy Spirit is present in our life and in the lives of others. The practicum is a two-year process filled with contemplative prayer, study, and practicing spiritual disciplines. Participants will journey with each other and with Spiritual Giants who will mentor them during this formation process. Participants will have opportunities to provide spiritual direction under supervision, and will receive spiritual direction throughout the process.

For more information, please visit our Called to be a Spiritual Director page.

Dates of Sessions:

• September 14, 2018
• September 15, 2018
• October 5, 2018
• October 6, 2018
• November 9, 2018
• November 10, 2018
• December 7, 2018
• December 8, 2018
• January 11, 2019
• January 12, 2019
• February 8, 2019
• February 9, 2019
• March 8, 2019
• March 9, 2019
• April 5, 2019
• April 6, 2019
• May 10, 2019
• May 11, 2019

As spiritual companions, how do we sit with others who have different practices and beliefs, yet similar longings for connectedness?

In this full-day seminar on spiritual companionship, we will:

• Begin with recognition and understanding of the Perennial Tradition and what our place is within it
• Learn who the spiritually independent is
• Learn tools for contingent communication
• Practice with others using Pure Presence® - an interspiritual model of non-judgmental, compassionate listening and presence
• Explore the relationship and interconnectedness between our identity within our particular tradition and other religious/spiritual/ethical traditions

As we discuss the major shifts in this interspiritual age, we will consider how our religious/spiritual identity intersects with our companions.

This program is open to spiritual companions, spiritual directors, chaplains and ministers in healthcare settings, ministry leaders, and related spiritual companionship roles.

Cost: $85; $65 for spiritual directors actively practicing at Dominican Center (use code "Present" for this price)
Cost includes continental breakfast, lunch, and materials
Participants encouraged to bring a comfortable cushion

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Evangelization

Join this interfaith contemplative group that practices interspiritual companioning. We will explore and participate in contemplative practices from global faith traditions to move us in deeper union with the Divine. All faith traditions welcome.

In collaboration with Kaufman Interfaith Institute.

Dates:

• September 17, 2018
• October 22, 2018
• November 19, 2018

Cost: Free-will offering

FD: Spirituality

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

Discover Dominican spirituality. It is a spirituality rooted in prayer study for the sake of service and community. Be inspired to grow in your spirituality through the lived experiences and teachings of St. Catherine of Siena, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Meister Eckhart.

To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.
- St. Thomas Aquinas

Series Dates:

• September 17, 2018
• October 15, 2018
• November 19, 2018
• December 17, 2018
• January 21, 2019
• February 18, 2019
• March 18, 2019
• April 15, 2019
• May 20, 2019

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

Saint Series is presented by Dominican Associates. Dominican Associates are non-vowed women and men who desire to practice their Christian faith in the spirit of the Dominican Order of Preachers. The Saint Series is presented by the Dominican Associates to bring light to the many holy women and men in service of God.

No matter what provokes it, anger blinds the soul's eyes, preventing it from seeing the Sun of Righteousness.
- Saint John Cassian

St. John Cassian, Mystic, Theologian, Author, and Monk will be presented by Dominican Associate David Lincoln.

Dominican Associates are non-vowed women and men who desire to practice their Christian faith in the spirit of the Dominican Order of Preachers. Interested in Dominican Associate Life? Visit  www.grdominicans.org/associates

In this year-long, 8-session program, Practicum for Facilitating Contemplative Groups, develop skills and experiences to form and facilitate contemplative spiritual direction or ministry groups for your church or community. Immersed in prayer, experiential learning, and models of group dynamics, each participant is asked to practice the process with a group of your choosing.

Participants in this program need not be spiritual directors. All that is required is a desire to be present to God on behalf of others, a willingness to grow as a contemplative person, and a plan to implement your learnings. Previous participants have facilitated group spiritual direction, book study, R.C.I.A., faith formation, and faith-sharing gatherings.

Cost: $200

Series Dates:

• September 21, 2018
• October 19, 2018
• November 16, 2018
• December 21, 2018
• January 18, 2019
• February 15, 2019
• March 15, 2019
• April 26, 2019

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

Foundations in Spirituality is a serious reflective study that opens our minds and hearts to the teachings and life examples of the great Christian spiritual teachers that continue to deepen our present spiritual journey.

Christ will make His home in your heart as you trust in Him.
Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong.
- Ephesians 3:17

Explore the rich preaching of St. Dominic; the unbreakable faith of St. Teresa of Avila; the deep spirituality of St. John of the Cross; the life-giving wisdom of the Beguines; the fortitude of John Calvin; the daily prayerful life of St. Ignatius; and the lives of many more that continue to enrich our own faith and spirituality.

The course introduces the practice of contemplative prayer and presence as basic to living a spiritual life. It is an experience that strengthens our own response to the longing in our hearts that seeks a deeper relationship with God.

The objectives of this course are to:

• Grow in understanding and appreciation of the diverse ways God has been present to and involved in the lives of the great spiritual teachers and guides throughout history
• Encourage awareness, commitment to, and integration of the spiritual journey in daily life through writing and living a personal rule of life
• Develop an understanding of contemplative attitudes and presence as basic to living a spiritual life
• Provide opportunity for an introductory study of writings from the spiritual classics for the purpose of reflection, discussion, and personal appropriation
• Foster respect for the diversity in past and present theology and spirituality.
• To present basic principles and tools for discernment that are useful for personal, prayerful decision making

Day and Times:  Class meets Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
A required book of readings will be available for purchase at Dominican Center.

Dates of Sessions:

• September 22, 2018
• October 20, 2018
• November 17, 2018
• December 15, 2018
• January 19, 2019
• February 16, 2019
• March 16, 2019
• April 13, 2019
• May 18, 2019

Building on our connected, common humanity, Foundations in Wisdom offers the opportunity to explore spiritual practices, expand resources, and participate in shared experiences that renew one’s spiritual foundation, as well as the resolve to live in this world with compassion and to respond with contemplative service.

Martin Luther King knew that God and God alone gives us the interior resources to bear the burdens and tribulations of life, especially those that come as we fulfill our call to serve others and stand for what is right in this world. Had he not known how to move from action back into prayer - how to tap into a deeper Source than mere human activism - we would have lost him to fear and discouragement; the forces of evil would have prevailed, at least for a little while longer.
- Ruth Haley Barton, Author
MLK Jr. and the Soul of Leadership

All faith traditions and wisdom teachers are rooted in their commitment to social justice and to those living in the margins of society. The givens of our faith include being good stewards
of the earth, empowering the vulnerable to live with dignity, and standing in equity with all peoples.

This spiritual formation experience guides participants toward a deeper understanding that will awaken and strengthen a commitment to justice.

• Companion with wisdom teachers who came before us - Dorothy Day, Howard Thurman, Monseñor Oscar Romero, Mother Teresa, Rosa Parks, Teresa de Avila, St. Francis of Assisi.
• Companion with wisdom teachers still with us - Richard Rohr, Joan Chittister, Malala Yousafzai, Pádraig Ó Tuama, Margaret Benefiel, Thich Nhat Hanh, Pope Francis, Desmond Tutu, the Dalai Lama, Pema Chödrön, Don Goergen, OP.
• Companion with prophetic wisdom yet to come.
• Journey near and far to witness and participate in the work of those making a difference in the lives of others.
• Develop resources for cultivating the practices of meditation and contemplation in today’s world.
• Share one’s story and have one’s story be heard through the art of holy listening and conversation.

Series Dates

• September 22, 2018
• October 20, 2018
• November 17, 2018
• December 15, 2018
• January 19, 2019
• February 16, 2019
• March 16, 2019
• April 13, 2019
• May 18, 2019

Cost: $600, plus book fees. If you would like information regarding a payment plan or scholarship, please email Margarita Solis-Deal, Director of Dominican Center: msolis-deal@Dominicancenter.com

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

The United Nations International Day of Peace is an opportunity for all humanity to come together, in spirit and in action, to forward the ideals of and conditions for peace. This day is observed by hundreds of millions of global citizens in cities, towns, and villages. This year, the International Day of Peace honors the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

... Imagine all the people living life in peace.
- John Lennon

1:00 pm:
Walk for Peace through the St. Francis Sculpture Garden for Prayer and Meditation

2:00 pm:
Interfaith Peace Service at Marywood Chapel

In collaboration with Instruments of Hope and the Institute for Global Education

No registration fee. All are welcome.

Learn the benefits of the Zentangle Drawing Method, as well as techniques and basic steps of creating a Zentangle work of art. Discover the gifts of relaxation, expanded awareness, enhanced focus, new practices for problem-solving, and uncover new ways to see beauty and to embrace the unexpected.

A wonderful way for a person to grow in a quiet meditative atmosphere, expressing their creativity and sharing in the process with others.
- Zentangle Participant

No art experience is needed to participate in this program. Beginners welcome! Materials included.

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy.

Join us for the September Reflective Film Series, Sin Nombre (Nameless), a 2009 Mexican-American adventure thriller film about a Honduran girl trying to immigrate to the U.S.A., and a boy caught up in the violence of gang life.

Rated: R

Popcorn and soda provided.

Co-sponsored by Dominican Associates. Special thanks to Zulema Moret, Dominican Associate, for her generosity.

Jesus looked deeply into the eyes of John the Baptist; He invited Nicodemus to be born again; He asked for a drink from a Samaritan woman; He made His hands and His side available to doubting Thomas. Jesus waits for us to be our Word, to become our friend, to share the journey of faith. The Gospels were written that we may become a believing disciple. Come and journey with us. Please bring a Bible to class.

Series Dates:

• October 1, 2018
• November 5, 2018
• December 3, 2018

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality/Theology

Modern society moves so quickly we inevitably find ourselves taking fast, shallow breaths to keep up. As a result, the brain receives a signal that crisis awaits. Stress chemicals flood the body and we feel agitated and exhausted. But when we breathe deeply we send our bodies the message that all is well, our bodies are filled with vitality. Discover how deep breathing feeds the body leaving you feeling more grounded and peaceful and open to the joys of life.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

Join us for an evening of film, reflection, and civil discourse on gun violence. After the film, The Armor of Light, our panel will guide this thoughtful discussion. We welcome panelists Todd E. Oleson, M.Div., MSW; Denise Martin, Elder of Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Moms Demand Action; Rev. Christian Brocato, Ph.D., St. Mark's Episcopal Church; Dr. Lisa Smith, M.D., Family Medicine, Mercy Health; Joyce Ann Hertzig, OP, Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids; and Maureen Birnie, Moms Demand Action.

The Armor of Light tracks Reverend Rob Schenck, an anti-abortion activist and fixture on the political far right, who breaks with orthodoxy by questioning whether being pro-gun is consistent with being pro-life. Along the way, he meets Lucy McBath, the mother of Jordan Davis, an unarmed teenager whose murder in Florida has cast a spotlight on “Stand Your Ground” laws.

Imagine a world free of gun violence. What do you see?
- Moms Demand Action, New Jersey Chapter

The Armor of Light follows these unlikely allies through their trials of conscience, heartbreak, and rejection, as they bravely attempt to make others consider the growing toll of gun violence in America through a moral lens. In this courageous look at our fractured political culture, an Evangelical minister and the mother of a teenage shooting victim come together across deep party lines to find common ground.

In collaboration with Moms Demand Action

Cost: free-will donation; recommended donation $5.00

Jesus turned and saw them following him and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi, where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and see!” (John 1:38-39)

Would you like to find out more about Dominican life and vocation? If you are a single Catholic woman, at least 20-years of age, a Come-and-See Weekend is an opportunity to explore Dominican Charism and a life built on:

PRAYER • STUDY • SERVICE • COMMUNITY

• During your time at Marywood, you will have opportunities to:
• Engage in conversation with the Sisters
• Meet other women who are discerning religious life
• Have time for prayer, reflection, adoration, and fun
• Walk the beautiful grounds of our Motherhouse
• Worship with the Sisters at Liturgy and the Sunday Assembly

There is no cost for this weekend.  Room and meals are provided.

For more information contact Sr. Chela Gonzalez, Vocation Director:
cgonzalez@grdominicans.org • 616-329-6221.

Increasingly we are made aware of the impact good nutrition has on our physical and spiritual health and peace. In this program, Gentle Nutrition, we will come to understand how mindful eating can help us increase our nutritional intake and help us move out of eating with a diet mentality. Gentle Nutrition introduces the how-to's of moving toward a plant-based lifestyle and offers information for those looking to lower their intake of animal products. Join us as we explore the healing benefits of plant-based meals.

Each attendee will receive a free eBook developed by Sam Kalawart on plant-based eating.

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

We celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi with a Blessing of the Animals. We invite all pets and their caregivers to attend this community event celebrating the animals that companion with us on our life journeys.

If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow men.
- Francis of Assisi

In collaboration with Instruments of Hope

No registration fee.  All are welcome.

Enneagram and spirituality is a journey of our spiritual self - a path to becoming fully human and fully alive. By uncovering the illusions and the virtues in our own Enneagram type, we learn to trust the letting go of unhelpful patterns of behavior that blind us to living out the virtues of our type. That understanding gives us the courage to practice new patterns of behaviors and grow into our very best being in the world.

This program is designed for those who have a general knowledge of the Enneagram and want to go deeper into their self-acceptance and the acceptance of others.

Series Dates:

• October 8, 2018
• October 15, 2018
• October 22, 2018

FD: Spirituality

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

Clearness Committees are a traditional and long-standing process of discernment that emerged from the Religious Society of Friends (Quaker) tradition. A clearness committee is the gathering of a small group of individuals convened to help one individual gain clarity about a personal, life, or work issue that will help the individual discern a way forward.

The clearness process includes: prayer, silence, deep listening to the questions and concerns brought to the committee, careful, and gentle open-ended questions from clearness committee members.  Join us as we explore this spiritual practice and learn from the Quaker tradition in seeking inner wisdom to respond to life situations and experiences.

Series Dates

• October 10
• October 17
• October 24
• October 31
• November 7

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

Saint Series is presented by Dominican Associates. Dominican Associates are non-vowed women and men who desire to practice their Christian faith in the spirit of the Dominican Order of Preachers. The Saint Series is presented by the Dominican Associates to bring light to the many holy women and men in service of God.

Margaret of Scotland will be presented by Dominican Associate Melissa Coll Smith.

Dominican Associates are non-vowed women and men who desire to practice their Christian faith in the spirit of the Dominican Order of Preachers. Interested in Dominican Associate Life? Visit www.grdominicans.org/associates

With a focus on that which has caused and keeps us in a state of anger, Writing Through Anger is a contemplative program that invites women writers to express and release toxic emotions that negatively affect our well-being. As you put pen to paper, observe the anger as it pours from you, discover the truth of your anger, and allow anger’s energy to create both art and change.

Bring anger and pride under your feet, turn them into a ladder and climb higher.
- Rumi

Using stillness, writing prompts, sharing, and non-judgmental feedback, this reflective writing experience is open to women writers of all levels. Participants choose the genre they find most comfortable. Limited to eight writers.

FD: Spirituality

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

Guided meditation is a purposeful use of the imagination to create a deeply relaxed state. Directed positive imagery helps us reduce stress and pain, decrease anxiety and depression, and increase energy and joy. This practice allows us to access the subconscious mind so you can tap into your body’s innate ability to heal and facilitate the well-being of body, mind, and spirit.

A heart at peace gives life to the body.
– Proverbs 14:30

A sacred discipline when practiced regularly, meditation invites calm and peace into our daily lives. By using guided meditation on a regular basis you can manage stress and anxiety in your life.

FD: Spirituality

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

~ Spiritual Director Conversations ~
Join the spiritual director community in contemplative conversation and learning.

The Enneagram, an ancient tool of self-knowledge, has gained enormous popularity but is often misunderstood. Join us in conversation on how spiritual directors can use the Enneagram with the appropriate patience and reverence to assist their directees in the long journey of personal discernment.  The conversation will also focus on when, and when not, to use the Enneagram in spiritual direction, how to use the Enneagram in explicit ways in sacred conversations, and how to use it implicitly to identify focus questions in sacred listening

Cost: $15 (Fee waived for spiritual directors actively practicing at Dominican Center. Use code "Enneagram" at checkout if you are a spiritual director).

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Evangelization

Zentangle: Made in the Shade explores subtle differences in shading techniques to bring your Zentangle art to life. Spend focused time isolating the shading process, adding special effects, and learning how a single graphite pencil has the ability to produce not just one shade, but many. Tiles and a practice worksheet provided. Please bring Micron pen(s), pencil, and blending tool.

A wonderful way for a person to grow in a quiet meditative atmosphere, expressing their creativity and sharing in the process with others.
- Zentangle Participant

A form of artistic expression and meditation, the Zentangle Method® allows you to create beautiful images using techniques of drawing structured patterns and reflective prompts.

*Prerequisite: Exploring Zentangle - or - Introduction to Zentangle

Register for Exploring Zentangle: An Introduction

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

Silence the world around you. Silence the world within you. Silence the thoughts that shout out to you. In the stillness hear God’s voice. In the quiet, sense the Divine’s presence and the spiritual love that is waiting to embrace you. Gently enter into silence during this retreat experience. A spiritual director will be here to companion with you.

Silence is the language of God.
All else is poor translation.
- Rumi

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

Join us for the October Reflective Film Series, Truman, a 2015 comedy-drama film. Julián receives an unexpected visit from his friend Tomás, who lives in Canada. The two men, accompanied by Julián's faithful dog, Truman, will share emotional and surprising moments prompted by Julián's complicated situation.

Rated: R

Co-sponsored by Dominican Associates. Special thanks to Zulema Moret, Dominican Associate, for her generosity.

#ToughSkinSoftHeart Truth: When you rest, the world gets your best. Yet we recharge our technology more than our own bodies. The result is that we live too many days of our lives teetering on the brink of burnout - we are the walking wounded and emotionally running on empty.  In this Restore Your Soul Respite, led by author Shannon Cohen, participate in sessions designed to bring healing to the threadbare spaces of our soul. Using as a framework Shannon's book Tough Skin, Soft Heart: A Leadership Guide to Growing Stronger, Better, and Wiser, this respite invites you to:

• Rest and recharge
• Review and reset
• Renew and restore

Each breath is a reminder of the limitless opportunities we have to make choices for the good of ourselves and others. So, breathe deep, and let's GO!
- Shannon Cohen, Author of Tough Skin, Soft Heart

Strategies will be shared and practiced to help you implement emotional health and self-care practices at home. Each attendee will receive a Tough Skin, Soft Heart leadership care kit.

Cost: $99 - includes a copy of Tough Skin, Soft Heart
$79 - special price for those who have the book. Use the code Restore at checkout if you already have the book. Please bring the book to the retreat.

Fee includes lunch and journal.

View Dominican Center's Refund Policy

FD: Spirituality

In what ways do we hold food sacred or significant in our lives? Food is the center of many spiritual practices in faith traditions and belief systems. We fast during Lent, Ramadan, Ekadashi, and Yom Kippur; we abstain from eating food that is not prepared using Kosher practices or meat that is not Halal; we are required to feed the poor and hungry and care for the land where food originates. Something in our faith traditions or worldviews compels us to think deeply about what is the nourishment we enjoy, where it came from, and how we can sustain it. Join us for an interfaith conversation on the intersection of food and faith.

Join us in listening to  Dr. Hisham Moharram from The Good Tree, Inc. as he shares his perspective on how he holds food sacred. The evening will be facilitated by Rev. Nurya Love Parish, co-founder of Plainsong Farm & Ministry in Rockford. Offering reflections on how they hold food sacred will also be Lisa M. Rose, author and member of Temple Emmanuel, and Inderjit Moondra, a member of the West Michigan Sikh Community.

In 2012, Tuesday Tabletalk hosted its first interfaith dinner conversation. This event was a response to the Year of Interfaith Understanding declared by former Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell as a year-long effort to cultivate community interest and engagement of all faith traditions in West Michigan. Tuesday Tabletalk is a collaboration between Dominican Center at Marywood and Kaufman Interfaith Institute.

This is program is collaboratively coordinated by Plainsong Farm & Ministry, Access of West Michigan, Kaufman Interfaith Institute, and Dominican Center at Marywood.

Cost: $25 / Students; $10 (use code "StudentTabletalk" for this price), includes vegetarian meal.

FD: Spirituality

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Come and journey to the Emerald Isle. Breathe in the spirit of the land that is Ireland; experience the beauty and tradition of its people; and let the footsteps of the Celtic mystics and saints guide your walking and resting in this land of deep and ancient spirituality.

For more information

Nancy Brousseau, OP
nbrousseau@aol.com or 616.560.4580

Cost

$2,999, includes round-trip airfare from Chicago, first class/select hotels, and most meals

FD: Evangelization

For 800 years, women and men have taken up the mantle of Dominic and proclaimed God’s justice and mercy to a world bankrupted of both. Fire in My Bones proposes that a three-fold biblical foundation — the Word Prophetic, the Word Incarnate, and the Word Proclaimed — informs and sustains the Dominican charism and provides direction for all those who seek to build a more holy and just world. This program engages a dynamic process that integrates personal experience with biblical study to share with others the fruits of our contemplation.

Sister Laurie Brink is an associate professor of New Testament Studies at Catholic Theological Union

Cost: $45 ($35 for Dominican Associates, use code Fire  at checkout for this price)

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FD: Spirituality/Theology

In this morning session, Creative Transformation: Enter into Silence, re-align body, mind, and soul using quiet, presence, and creative expression. Be guided through contemplative creative practices that can be integrated into the everyday to bring about a more intimate experience with that which you find meaningful. As you slow your mind, find your center, and flow into the artistic process, you’ll find space and quiet for personal reflection and expression.

We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature - trees, flowers, grass- grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence... We need silence to be able to touch souls.
- Mother Teresa

A variety of art materials will be used throughout the workshop. No artistic skill needed to participate.

FD: Spirituality

Note: The date for this program has shifted from October 6 to November 3. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Please call the Dominican Center front desk with any questions. 616.514.3325.

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~ Spiritual Director Conversations ~
Join the spiritual director community in contemplative conversation and learning.

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If you feel called to grow your spiritual direction ministry, but are unsure where to begin, join this Spiritual Director Conversation, Market With Heart.

When you allow yourself to be guided by your vision, your desire to serve, and your inner wisdom, then you are marketing with heart.
– Sandra Mitchell

During this contemplative conversation receive information and guidance to take simple first steps toward sharing the word of your ministry to those who may benefit most; explore what may be standing in the way of you expanding your ministry; learn more about the basic tools of marketing, including websites, social media, and more; and participate in an extended question and answer session.

Cost: $15 (Fee waived for spiritual directors actively practicing at Dominican Center. Use the code "Heart" at checkout if you are a spiritual director.)

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FD: Evangelization

Refocus mind and heart before the hustle and bustle of the holidays with this Centering ZenGem Buttons class. Make hand drawn gemstones surrounded by Zentangle patterns and incorporate words and phrases of peace. Your ZenGem is a gift that serves as a gentle reminder of the peace that resides within.

A form of artistic expression and meditation, the Zentangle Method allows you to create beautiful images using techniques of drawing structured patterns and reflective prompts.

*Prerequisite: Exploring Zentangle - or - Introduction to Zentangle

Register for Exploring Zentangle: An Introduction

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The labyrinth is an ancient gift that invites you to walk a path to wholeness, integrating life’s positive and negative experiences along the way. Known as a path of meditation or as a path of prayer, the labyrinth has an uncanny ability to open one’s receptivity, intuition, and inner knowing.

The labyrinth provides the sacred space where the inner and outer worlds can commune, where the thinking mind and the imaginative heart can flow together.
- Dr. Lauren Artress

The labyrinth will gently and graciously offer you profound guidance on how best to proceed on your journey with an open, joyous heart.

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FD: Spirituality

Join us for the November Reflective Film Series featuring The Concert. Andrei Simoniovich Filipov, renowned conductor of the Bolshoi orchestra, was fired for hiring Jewish musicians. Now a cleaning man, he learns that the Châtelet Theater in Paris invites the Bolshoi orchestra to play. He decides to gather together his former musicians to perform in place of the current Bolshoi orchestra.

Rated PG-13

Popcorn and soda provided.

Co-sponsored by Dominican Associates. Special thanks to Zulema Moret, Dominican Associate, for her generosity.

Join us for Advent Icon Retreat: The Nativity. For followers of Christ, Advent is a season of preparation for the arrival of holy peace, perfect love, and true compassion to light up our hearts with spiritual joy. Sacred icons are images of those whose hearts were on fire with this joy. These images reflect God’s love.

Reflection, prayer, contemplative creativity, and gentle instruction will guide participants in painting this image on a 9” X 12” board. Beginner and experienced artists welcome. No previous painting experience required. Paint, brushes, and supplies  included.

Price of $350.00 includes the retreat, breakfasts, and lunches.

Rooms: $45/night; overnight rooms are limited at Dominican Center. 

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FD: Spirituality

During this Advent season, let us resolve to find a better rhythm of work and play, of justice and peace, of prayer and silence.  Let us resolve to hold Sabbath sacred.  Sabbath is resting in the Lord, making room for God, making better choices, and finding space to just be.

If you refrain from trampling the Sabbath, from pursuing your own interests on my Holy day; if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s Holy day honorable; then you shall take delight in the Lord, and I will make you ride upon the heights.
- Isaiah 58: 13-14

FD: Spirituality

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The best gift that you can give the world is a you that is fully present. Come, retreat to a place focused on quieting the environment around and all that is within you. Learn to respond to your need and longing for time and space to renew body, mind, and spirit. Come on your own, invite a friend, or gather with a special group to Be Still in Sacred Spaces.

Participants may choose three sessions. Continental breakfast included.

Gentle Yoga: Come Home to Yourself, with Kathy Julien - Return home to yourself as you build awareness of your breath, observe the body's sensations, and expand the heart. Gentle yoga is suitable for all ages, fitness levels, and physical conditions.

I Light: Release and Trust the Journey, with Leara Glinzak, MSAT - Using an art experiential, explore how creativity and faith, when woven together, create centering. Ground in your faith and experience a creative process and an art therapy directive that will guide you on an introspective journey.

Labyrinth Walk: Connect With Your Truth, with Susan Duesbery - Known as a path of prayer the labyrinth has an uncanny ability to help access our deepest truths. In challenging times, labyrinth walking graciously offers profound guidance on how to navigate our journeys with an open, loving heart.

Moving Meditation, with Nahed Fernando - Nature is your spiritual companion for this contemplative experience, held in Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters' Chapel of the Word. Use the physical, mental, and spiritual experience of walking to develop your ability to take awareness of the holy within your ordinary life.

Seated Stillness: Finding Sacred Space Within, with Sandra Mitchell - In this restful session, using seated guided meditation, silence, and gentle inquiry of the heart, seek stillness and discernment of what will best serve you in your journey of finding sacred space within.

Zentangle®: Be Present, with Amy Kam, CZT - The Zentangle® Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. This artistic meditation creates a safe space to discover new ways to open up to your self-expression and allows you to see the beauty in all things.

In this fun class, Zentangle: Zen-Bedded Letters, learn to zen-bed (embed) letters of the alphabet into a work of art! This meditative technique is ideal for making cards or bookmarks and for personalizing gifts. Two Zentangle tiles are provided. Please bring your Micron PN, Micron 01, pencil, and tortillion (blending tool).

The Zentangle Method is an elegant metaphor and model for inspiring a deliberate artistry in life.
- zentangle.com

A form of artistic expression and meditation, the Zentangle Method allows you to create beautiful images using techniques of drawing structured patterns and reflective prompts.

Prerequisite: Exploring Zentangle - or - Introduction to Zentangle

Register for Exploring Zentangle: An Introduction

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy

O' Antiphons is a seven-day prayer that is an ancient Christian ritual in preparation for the coming of the Light of the World ... Jesus. Each evening begins with a contemplative candlelight procession, then moves into the singing of hymns and psalms; the proclamation of scripture; and a reflection on the theme of each sacred evening. Join us in union with the global community, as we wait in holy anticipation.

There is no registration for this offering.

Scripture comes alive as we journey through the sacred places of the Holy Land. This pilgrimage brings a new richness as we will walk where Jesus walked in Galilee region and in Jerusalem and Bethany where he spent time with his beloved friends.

Cost: $3,699, includes round-trip airfare from Chicago, first class/select hotels, and most meals.

For more information on this pilgrimage or to register, view the brochure or contact Sr. Nancy Brousseau at email: nbrousseau@aol.com or phone: 616.560.4580.

FD: Evangelization

Silence the world around you. Silence the world within you. Silence the thoughts that shout out to you. In the stillness hear God’s voice. In the quiet, sense the Divine’s presence and the spiritual love that is waiting to embrace you. Gently enter into silence during this retreat experience. A spiritual director will be here to companion with you on this silent retreat.

This retreat is held at the Augustine Center. The center is a retreat house welcoming individuals and groups for ongoing formation, education, and spirituality. The Augustine Center is located in Conway, Michigan, on the northern border of Petoskey.

$335: Includes spiritual direction, meals, and room. Space is limited. Financial scholarships are available. Call to request information.

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Silence the world around you. Silence the world within you. Silence the thoughts that shout out to you. In the stillness hear God’s voice. In the quiet sense the Divine’s presence and the spiritual love that is waiting to embrace you. Gently enter into silence during this retreat experience. A Spiritual Director will be here to companion with you.

$335: Includes spiritual direction, meals, and room. Space is limited. Financial scholarships are available. Call to request information.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy.

FD: Spirituality

A once in a lifetime opportunity to attend the world-famous Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany. The villagers of Oberammergau first performed the play in 1634 in fulfillment of their promise to God for sparing them from the Black Plague and it has been presented there every 10 years since then.

Cost: $4,479, includes round-trip airfare from Chicago, first class/select hotels, and most meals.

For more information on this pilgrimage or to register, view the brochure or contact Sr. Nancy Brousseau at email: nbrousseau@aol.com or phone: 616.560.4580.

FD: Evangelization

Silence the world around you. Silence the world within you. Silence the thoughts that shout out to you. In the stillness hear God’s voice. In the quiet sense the Divine’s presence and the spiritual love that is waiting to embrace you. Gently enter into silence during this retreat experience. A spiritual director will be here to companion with you on this summer silent retreat.

This retreat is held at the Augustine Center. The center is a retreat house welcoming individuals and groups for ongoing formation, education, and spirituality. The Augustine Center is located in Conway, Michigan, on the northern border of Petoskey.

$465: Includes spiritual direction, meals, and room. Space is limited. Financial scholarships are available. Call to request information.

View Dominican Center’s Refund Policy