Conversatio Divina

A Class on Desert Spirituality: Ancient Wisdom for Overcoming Vices with Virtues

Perhaps you have discovered Christopher Hall’s video series, Desert SpiritualityIf not, it’s not too late.

If so, you know that his purpose was to share wisdom from a variety of abbas and ammas who found authentic transformation in that arid, solitary learning space. The desert, and desert experiences, were welcomed as a good place to come to know God.

We are pleased to announce this week that Alison (Ali) Male, MD, an accomplished geneticist, Renovaré Institute alum, and student of the Enneagram, has written a leader’s guide for small groups which follows the order of the videos.

Truth be known, “abba” Chris graciously agreed to use the order of the Enneagram in creating his teaching sessions. That was all “amma” Ali needed to create this wonderful resource for small groups.

Desert Spirituality covers the nine vices and corresponding virtues highlighted by the Enneagram. And Ali’s study guide follows this pattern in creating a simple, user-friendly study guide that allows participants to:

  • Meet a desert personality
  • Consider a vice
  • Be inspired to cultivate a virtue
  • Receive an invitation into practices which can help us to learn how to love better.
  • And consult her excellent Appendix section to gain deeper insights from the perspective of the Enneagram.

Enjoy the learning space.

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Renovaré Book Club 2024-2025

Registration for the 2024-25 season of the Renovaré Book Club is now open. You’re invited on a journey of renewal as we explore books from Richard FosterMimi DixonRich Villodas—all facilitated by the authors—and a classic from Jean Pierre de Caussade (facilitated by James Catford).

In a chronically distracted and disconnected world, the Book Club offers a fun and practical pathway to rescuing our focus and developing deeper connections with God and each other. Early bird pricing ends September 1st.

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