Master of Arts in Transforming Spirituality/Spiritual Direction Specialization

This degree educates and forms men and women in the area of spirituality. The degree balances a rootedness in the Christian tradition with an openness to the wisdom of the world’s spiritual beliefs and practices and to the spiritual hunger of those who may not identify with any religious tradition. It seeks to explore both the mystical and prophetic dimensions of spirituality. The degree is holistic and interdisciplinary in method, ecumenical and multicultural in scope, and recognizes the interfaith context of contemporary spirituality. It seeks to address the human and spiritual questions that arise within our 21st century pluralistic society; pays special attention to the distinctive sensibilities that inform spirituality in the Pacific Northwest (a hunger for the Sacred, an appreciation for creation, openness to informal ways of belonging to spiritual communities, and a pioneering spirit, which seeks a more just and peaceful world), while at the same time taking seriously communal and ecclesial realities that question and challenge the cultural value of individualism. The MATS degree emphasizes:

• Experiential dimensions of prayer
• Dynamics of personal and communal transformation
• Faith that works for justice
• Ecological awareness and responsibility
• Interplay of the arts, creativity and spirituality
• Engagement with contemporary culture
• Leadership skills for effective work and ministry