Emmaus Formation Centre provides sacred spaces for soul care, spiritual formation, and renewal.
Rooted in community, reflective practice, and the rhythms of God’s work in our lives, Emmaus fosters transformation for life, leadership, and the life of the church. Through courses, training programs, and resources, we equip individuals, pastors, and leaders to accompany others, grow in spiritual depth, and participate fully in God’s Kingdom work.
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Sacred spaces for soul care. Formation for life and ministry.
The Emmaus School of Formation and Spiritual Direction accompanies individuals on a journey of nurturing the soul through spiritual formation and soul care. By creating sacred spaces for listening to God, we learn to recognize and respond to God’s work in our lives and communities—for the sake of the Kingdom.
The Certificate in Spiritual Formation is a two-year program comprising six courses. It serves as the foundational program for the Certificate in Spiritual Direction. This certificate is designed to stand alone, catering to students aiming to integrate spiritual formation within their local faith communities. Completion of this program or its equivalent is a prerequisite for the one-year Spiritual Direction Certificate.
The Emmaus Spiritual Direction Certificate is 4-course, 1½ year part-time educational program designed to provide opportunity to develop the attitudes, skills, and knowledge for a ministry of spiritual direction. Emmaus’ Certificate in Spiritual Formation or its equivalent are prerequisites for the one-year spiritual direction certificate. Courses are fully online. The first course of the sequence is also part of the Certificate in Spiritual Formation.
Persons who have completed the Emmaus Spiritual Direction Certificate or its equivalent may apply to take an Advanced Certificate in Spiritual Direction. The purpose of this program is to provide and encourage continuing education for spiritual directors. The certificate is an evidence that this has been undertaken at a substantial level.
To become a student of Emmaus Formation Centre, submit your application form. Upon acceptance, you may create an account and then register for courses.
As travelers on life's journey, there are times when we benefit from the guidance of a spiritual companion to help clear away the distractions, allowing us to rediscover God's presence and work in our lives. Pilgrims turn to spiritual directors when they desire a deeper, more intimate connection with God, during times of transition or discernment, in moments of grief, or when they seek the support of someone spiritually mature. These directors are trained and experienced in spiritual practices, attuned to God's leading even in the ordinary moments of life.
The Emmaus Society for Spiritual Directors (ESSD) is a community of trained and experienced spiritual directors committed to ongoing formation, prayer, and mutual support. Membership offers connection, encouragement, and resources to strengthen your practice and deepen your ministry of soul care. ESSD members engage in continuing education, reflective supervision, and shared conversation, creating a sacred space to nurture both your own soul and the souls of those you accompany. Together, we walk in community, supporting one another as we listen for God and guide others in their spiritual journeys.