Souljourners
What is it?
At its core, Souljourners is about helping others to grow in the skills of listening deeply with their heart and being truly present with others. A 3-year, on-site program focused upon Judeo-/Christian spiritual traditions, Souljourners was created with those in mind who wish to become spiritual directors. But, it is by no means limited to those wishing to officially take on that role. The skills learned in Souljourners can benefit anyone in any role or profession. For those who work specifically in ministry, we believe you will find the Souljourners program invaluable in helping you to serve God’s people with even greater love and compassion.
The skills learned in Souljourners can benefit anyone in any role or profession.
Common Questions and Answers
Souljourners is open to women and men of all faiths, from all walks of life. Graduates have come from a wide range of both professions (pastors, real estate agents, actors, counselors, ministers) and spiritual backgrounds.
Hosted by Sophia Center, the program is an official ministry of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison, Kansas. A leadership team consisting of Sr. Marcia Ziska, Mary Kay Whitacre, and Sr. Patricia Seiple, coordinate the program, while a number of dedicated individuals round out the Souljourners staff.
The program requires 3-years to complete.
Regular classes are one weekend, monthly, from September-April (with a December break) and during those weekends, classes run from Friday afternoon through Saturday afternoon. The third, practicum year is structured a little differently. Learn more details through our program overview page. All classes are held at Sophia Spirituality Center in Atchison, Kansas.
We do not offer an on-line option.
Preferrably new students begin with an intensive week-long residency in June, but they can also be permitted to begin in September, which is always the first of the regular, monthly, weekend sessions.
I’m interested—tell me more.
Think Souljourners might be for you and curious to learn more? Register to join us for one of our monthly inquiry sessions, either via Zoom or on-site visit.
Can’t wait and want to talk with someone now? Reach out to connect with one of our Souljourners staff.