Maryknoll Mission Institute Spring/summer courses begin May 5

The challenges of evangelization in the 21st century, the evolution of human thought, and migration, globalization and the human journey are just some of the powerful topics to be addressed this spring and summer at Maryknoll Mission Institute, to be held weekly, beginning May 5, at the Maryknoll Sisters Center, 10 Pinesbridge Road, Ossining, New York. Courses, which cost $200 each, plus a one-time $50 registration fee, fill quickly, so interested individuals should register no later than April 30.

“Boundless Compassion: Living the Heart of the Gospel”, the first course to be offered this year, will be held May 5–10. Taught by Joyce Rupp, OSM, author of the books, “Prayer” and “Fragments of Your Ancient Name: 365 Glimpses of the Divine for Daily Meditation,” this course invites participants to learn about the breadth and depth of companion, viewing it from various sources such as science and psychology, with a special focus on Gospel passages related to this essential teaching.

“The Bible Story Anew: Challenges for Life and Mission in the 21st Century” will be the next course. To be taught May 19–24 by Carol J. Dempsey, OP, professor of theology at the University of Portland, Oregon, the course explores five prominent biblical themes—God, prophetic tradition, justice, creation, environmental justice and compassion—considering them in light of the challenges of our global 21st century community.

“Dying to Live: Migration, Globalization and the Human Journey” will be taught by Daniel Grooney, CSC, director of the Center for Latino Spirituality and Culture at the Institute of Latino Studies, Notre Dame University, June 2–7. This course examines the complex, global issue of immigration which is impacting cultures worldwide, discussing in particular its ramifications in the United States.

“Disciple(ship) Today: The REAL Challenge of the New Evangelization” will be taught by Anthony Gittens, CSSp, professor emeritus of Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, and author of “Called to Be Sent: Co-Missioned as Disciples Today,” June 9–14. The program will focus on Jesus as “the evangelizer par excellence, incarnating God’s eternal mission, and our part in continuing that mission in our own lives.

“The Missionary Spirit and the Spirit in Our Time,” to discuss the newly expansive view of the Holy Spirit and its impact on mission, will be taught by Diarmuid O’Murchu, MSC, June 16–21. Father O’Murchu is a social psychologist with a special interest in changing trends of faith and mission. He is the author of several books, including “In the Beginning Was the Spirit.”

“Love, Evolution and the Emergence of God,” which explores a new religious paradigm arising from the challenges and changes facing humanity in the 21st century, will be taught by Ilia Delio, OSF, June 23–28. A senior research fellow at Woodstock Theological Center, Georgetown University, Sister Ilia’s books include “The Emergent Christ” and “God, Evolution and the Power of Love.”

“Growing in Consciousness: Our Connectedness in the Cosmic Christ,” a study of the Gospel message of Jesus Christ in light of 21st century culture and challenges, will be taught by Michael Crosby, OFMCap, July 7–12. A well-known Orbis author, Crosby’s most recent book is “Repair My House: Becoming a ‘Kingdom’ Catholic” (2012).

“Call to Personal and Global Transformation,” a study which, through Scripture and contemporary stories of mission and transformation, challenges participants to more deeply believe in and practice their calling to become mystics, healers and prophets, will be taught by Edwina Gateley July 21–26. The founder of Volunteer Missionary Movement and Genesis House, a house of hospitality and nurturing for women involved in prostitution, Gateley is author of “Mothers, Sisters, Daughters: Standing on Their Shoulders” and “I Hear a Seed Growing.”

Room and board for these courses is available for $50 per night. For more information or to register, click here.