SDTP Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony and Celebration

On Sunday, June 7, the FCJ Christian Life Centre celebrated the graduation of five students from its two-year, ecumenical Spiritual Direction Training Program (SDTP). Family, friends, mentors, and members of the FCJ community gathered to mark this significant milestone and honour the graduates' commitment to the ministry of spiritual direction.

The ceremony began with a procession as each graduate brought a flower to the altar while the hymn I Have Called You by Your Name was sung. A special moment of remembrance was held for classmate Brenda Horiachka, who would have graduated with the class but passed away in January. The graduates lit a candle in her memory. 

FCJ Centre Executive Director Whitney Nagasan-Calo welcomed guests and congratulated the graduates on completing the formation program. 

Speaking on behalf of the SDTP Leadership Team, Sr. Ann Marie Walsh reflected on the meaning of spiritual direction and the graduates' journey. "Spiritual direction is life-centred. Its primary goal is developing and deepening union with God," she said. She described spiritual direction as helping people recognize God's presence in their daily lives and noted that, while the term can be misleading, God is the true director. 

Sr. Ann Marie also highlighted the graduates' formation over the past two years through study, prayer, supervised practice, mentorship, and accompanying others in spiritual direction. "They worked hard and grew in so many wonderful ways. They are indeed ready," she said. 

Graduate Scott Koop spoke on behalf of the class, while Mike Boehlig presented the graduates' personal description of the spiritual direction and their icons created during their final retreat.  

Each of them was given the task of creating their own working definition of what Spiritual Direction means to them.  

“Spiritual Direction is to bring the gifts of attentiveness, acceptance, confidentiality, awareness, and appreciation of the sacred to individuals who wish to speak with another about matters of the mystical, the sacred, and the holy — with the hope of fostering spiritual insights.” - Brenda 

“It is a unique and supportive relationship in which, within a sacred space, you get to reflect, explore, and grow your relationship with God.” - Cindy 

“It is Prayerful listening towards companioning another in their walk with God.” - Scott 

“Spiritual Direction offers a sacred space and a compassionate presence, creating a safe place for individuals as they explore the movement of God in their hearts and lives. It invites greater awareness of the Divine and helps people recognize God’s presence in their everyday experience.” - Mirna 

“It is a journey of companionship and prayerful listening while pondering the sacred mysteries of a soul’s experience. It is a reflection of the heart for those who desire a deeper connection with the living Spirit of the Divine.” - Marilyn  

“Spiritual Direction is to walk alongside another, exploring the work God is doing in their life — the love He invites you into, and how He longs to explore the beauty of this relationship with you.” -Mike 

The celebration concluded with the presentation of certificates and a closing procession. Carrying their candles, the graduates departed to the hymn Christ, Be Our Light, symbolizing their call to accompany others on their spiritual journeys. A reception followed in the FCJ Centre Dining Room. 

To learn more about the Spiritual Direction Training Program, visit https://www.fcjcentre.ca/sdtp