The Power to Change: The Enneagram and an Emerging Consciousness

October 21, 2012 – October 24, 2012

“We men of power merely rearrange the world, but it is only people of the Spirit who really change it.” — Napoleon

Without reflection, wisdom and understanding, we leave ourselves and our planet open to a slow and steady demise.

The Enneagram is a soul saving, life changing, culture transforming guide as old as the hills and as fresh as the dawn.

The wisdom of the Enneagram provides a light into our being and a window on the world through which we may move from what we see as probable into what God sees as possible.

Two tracks will be offered:

• Enneagram basics: An introduction for those intrigued by the Enneagram and an opportunity for individual exploration and expression.
   
• Enneagram for trainers: For those who wish to translate what they have learned into transforming the lives of others, gain practical tools for teaching the system on a parish or community level. Participation in this track will count toward Enneagram teacher certification. (If seeking certification, you will need to attend three additional teaching modules, which will be offered by Dr. Howell during the 18 months following this event. Dates and times to be announced.)

Download a tentative schedule for this retreat – PDF (Participants will receive a finalized schedule at check-in.)

Workshops

Body Mind Spirit
Our egos often tell us that now is not as important as yesterday’s pains or tomorrow’s fears. This workshop will explore ways to quiet the chatter of our minds and allow ourselves to be more present. When we let go of compulsive thoughts, our spirits and bodies can live in the now. Workshop leader Livy Abele is a licensed professional counselor in private practice in Birmingham, Ala.

Growing Children’s Consciousness Through the Enneagram
This workshop explores how to use the Enneagram with children. By using the nine personalities to transcend the differences of gender, race, nationalities and religion, we can celebrate the need for all personalities among children. Workshop leader Susan Sedberry Murphy has a master’s degree in school counseling and a bachelor’s in physical education. She currently uses the Enneagram with students, parents and faculty in her school setting and will share responses in student art and from parents and teachers.

Meditation for Spiritual Consciousness
This workshop will include a short lecture on the art of mindfulness, presence, and meditation; time for individual meditation in silence as well as with guided imagery; and a group discussion in light of awareness and consciousness of the spirit. Workshop leader the Reverend George F. Cox will share his experience with Eastern meditation practices and the art of stillness from years of living in the Far East.

Retreat Staff

PRINCIPAL PRESENTER: Dr. Joe Howell is a clinical psychologist in Anniston, Ala., and a regionally known expert on the Enneagram, which he has studied and taught for more than 25 years.

Since 1979, Dr. Howell has treated children, adults and families for a variety of emotional, psychological, mental and behavioral disorders. His treatment methods combine established clinical tools of psychology with his understandings of spiritual growth. He has a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Virginia and a master’s in religion from Yale Divinity School, where he concentrated his studies in psychology and religion. He was a fellow in clinical psychology at Harvard Medical School’s Department of Psychiatry, where he completed his clinical internship.

A lively and energetic speaker, Dr. Howell is a sought after workshop and seminar presenter, frequently speaking to professional and religious organizations on topics including stress reduction, healing, combating mental illness, dream analysis and dream work. He is the author of Physician Stress: A Handbook for Coping.

COORDINATOR: The Rev. Susan Sloan spent 15 years as a Christian educator before she was ordained in 1996. She currently serves as rector of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Huntsville, Ala. She has a deep commitment to the power of legacy. One of her goals is to encourage and support the transfer of knowledge (and power) to the next generation, assuring the transformation of our world for the good.