Crossing the Threshold: Contemplative Foundations for Emerging Leaders

For those who are between 25-40 and seek a deeper spiritual foundation for their lives

Crossing the Threshold is designed for those who are

• Approximately between the ages of 25-40
• Desiring to deepen the spiritual foundation of their life and work
• Seeking a supportive spiritual community
• Interested in contemplative practices, including prayer and meditation
• Willing to learn within an ecumenical framework that includes wisdom from many traditions
• In a season of life where mental, physical, and spiritual health will be supported and engaged by the addition of this personal investment (not during a time of overburdened schedules or overwhelming personal crisis)

This program provides authentic connection and support through one-on-one mentoring, confidential peer groups, retreats, book resources and writing, and additional spiritual formation opportunities through Shalem’s short-term programs.

Crossing the Threshold Timeline

The program begins with the First Residency. A reading list to begin at-home preparation will be provided in advance.

First Residency: April 27-April 30, 2023
On Zoom

Second Residency: March 7-10, 2024
On Zoom

Final Retreat Day: November 9, 2024
On Zoom

At-Home Completion: September 30, 2024
Final integration paper due

Program Components

At-home work includes:

• A personal spiritual practice, including a daily discipline of prayer/ meditation/ presence for God
• At least one personal 24-hour, silent retreat per year as the start of a lifelong habit
• Participation in Shalem’s online education programs
• Monthly reflections about your spiritual life and leadership with your staff mentor, who will be a resource for you throughout the program
• Peer reflection sessions with other participants that meet every four to six weeks for mutual support, accountability and encouragement; Shalem will provide guidelines for reflection. Peer groups will be facilitated by a staff person for the duration of the program.
• Selected required readings, plus many optional readings, on spiritual life, leadership, environmental concerns and peace-making initiatives; a bibliography will be provided
• Brief reflection papers on the readings
• An opportunity to design and carry out an independent project, supervised by a Shalem mentor
• A final reflection paper based on your experience in the program

A Certificate of Completion is awarded at the end of the program to all participants who have met the program requirements.