As
we saw in the previous post, in order to reach Holiness one needs
“spiritual formation”. Spiritual formation encompasses three
areas:
1-
Learning doctrine/science (Courses, Workshops),
2-
Putting into practice the teaching, i.e. having the experience of it,
and
3-
Receiving discernment from an experienced person (one to one tuition
+ spiritual direction).
These
three areas are distinct but interconnected; therefore they should be
combined.
“Though
one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three
strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12)
The
one that “may be overpowered” is spiritual “experience”
standing on its own (without discernment and doctrine).
The
“two can defend themselves” are “experience” and
“discernment”.
The
three strands are: “experience”, “discernment” and full
“doctrine”.
Note:
Why “full doctrine”? Because half science, or being half
knowledgeable damages more than it can help. St Teresa of Avila
repeatedly warns about this and says that the help she received from
priests/monks who were half learned harmed her substantially.
The
School of Mary offers everybody “teaching” and “discernment”:
Courses, Workshops, One to One Tuition, Spiritual Direction (although
spiritual direction doesn't have to be sought exclusively at the
School). Putting into practice the teaching is something personal.
When the time is right, in reply to God's Call, it is up to the
person to decide to put into practice the teaching, in his/her own
life/schedule.
The
teaching is divided into three main levels, following three sections
of the full spiritual journey:
First
Education (Undergraduate Equivalent)
1-
Level One Foundation Course: implementing the foundations of a strong
and healthy spiritual life, starting to dedicate time for prayer, on
a regular daily basis, supporting that first serious step in
spiritual life.
1'-
Intermediate1 Courses: with more teaching, supporting a sustainable
rhythm of growth, in the first stages. Equivalent to the 4th
and 5th
Mansions of St Teresa of Avila. Reaching a more stable state: “Union
of Will”. Completing the First Level Course with other courses.
2-
Level Two Foundation Course: providing the teaching on the most
decisive moment in spiritual life: the deep radical purification.
2'-
Intermediate2 Courses: with more teaching supporting that stage.
Completing the Second Level
Course with other courses.
Further
Education (Graduate Equivalent)
3-
Formation in order to start teaching elements of the First Level
Course.
4'-
Level Three Foundation Course.
4''-
Further Courses on the Third Level.
Third
Cycle Education (Post Graduate Equivalent)
5-
Research
6-
Development in Spiritual Theology teaching
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