Conversatio Divina is one of four focal points for the Martin Institute and Dallas Willard Center. In addition to the Conversatio website, we develop resources in a variety of formats (small group curriculum projects, academic programs, structures retreats for pastors and laity). Each new initiative seeks to find creative ways for allowing others to step into and experience some of the big ideas from the writings from Ancient Christian Faith, Ignatius of Loyola, and, of course, Dallas Willard.
For the past several years Conversatio Divina and the Martin Institute have been able to offer a 10-month program for pastors called Next Frontiers. This initiative has been designed to help mid-career pastors thrive in congregational leadership during times of transition in ministry. The key features are tied to Dallas Willard’s four critical concerns and present opportunities for re-imaging pastoral identity, fostering spiritual renewal and engaging in meaningful relationships with veteran ministers who serve as models and mentors.
This program continues through the generosity of the Lilly Foundation and Westmont College. Eventually we will place on conversatio.org all of the lectures and many of the program activities which were part of the initial program for pastors. As a teaser for what is to come, we invite you to watch one of the lectures from the initial retreat. The speaker is one of our mentor pastors, Trevor Hudson, and his talk is created around the theme, “Coming Alive to Living in the Presence of God.”