Introductory Wisdom School: A Wisdom Way of Knowing (ONLINE VIA ZOOM)

“Wisdom Schools are a format for integral learning that’s based in some of the deepest roots for transformation and change in the Christian tradition. Wisdom Schools are about awakening the yearning for a different kind of presence in the world and then developing the skills and the knowledge base to apply that, to transform your own life and the life of people around you.” — Cynthia Bourgeault

This Introductory Wisdom School lays the groundwork for understanding the vital role of Wisdom in today’s world. Led by Cynthia Bourgeault, participants will delve into the Christian Wisdom tradition, exploring two key spiritual streams: the ancient Benedictine monastic model of “Ora et Labora” and the Gurdjieff Work’s concept of three-centered knowing and presence. Cynthia will illuminate how Wisdom serves as a precise and transformative spiritual science, offering both theoretical insights and practical tools for embodying Yeshua’s teachings—the Way of the Heart.

Through an integrated daily rhythm, this Wisdom School fosters an embodied “wisdom way of knowing,” incorporating periods of Great Silence, teaching sessions, Centering Prayer or silent meditation, mindful work, mindful movement, and contemplative free time.

Mercy Center’s Centering Prayer and Christian Wisdom Practices Program, in partnership with Wisdom Waypoints, presents this rare opportunity to engage the foundations of this Wisdom lineage.

Schedule (subject to change)

Sunday Evening, May 25th
3:00 Arrivals, Registration at front desk, settle in
5:30 Dinner Dining Room
6:45 Opening session Introducing Wisdom School Oak Room

Daily Monday, May 26th – Thursday, May 29th
7:00 Centering Prayer Oak Room
7:30 Breakfast maintaining Great Silence Dining Room
9:00 Morning Teaching Oak Room
10:30 Break
10:45 Conscious Work (Indoor/Outdoor) / Gurdjieff Movements Sequoia Room
12:00 Lunch Dining Room
1:00 Contemplative free time for rest and reflection
2:30 Conscious Work (Indoor/Outdoor) / Gurdjieff Movements Sequoia Room
3:30 Break
3:45 Centering Prayer & Chanting Oak Room
4:15 Afternoon Teaching or Lectio Divina Gospel of Thomas Oak Room
5:30 Dinner Dining Room
7:00 Mon & Thur: Reflections and Questions ending in Silence Oak Room
Tues & Wed: Lectio Divina and/or Chanting ending in Silence

Friday, May 30th
7:00 Centering Prayer Oak Room
7:30 Breakfast (silence optional) Dining Room
*pack up and remove belongings from room
9:00 Morning Teaching Oak Room
10:30 Break
10:45 Final Teaching or Eucharist Celebration Oak Room
12:00 Lunch for those who wish to stay Dining Room

***Dining Rooms & Sequoia Room are located on the first floor, Oak Room is located on the second floor