We are delighted that you are applying for the Certificate in Congregational Spiritual Direction offering through the Iona Collaborative at Seminary of the Southwest. Please make note of the important deadlines and documents for your application on this checklist.
Two Iona Office Hours are scheduled to answer questions you might have about your application, our requirements, or your unique situation. Use the buttons below to register and drop in anytime during the posted Office Hours.
Important Dates
- February 2, 2026
- March 27, 2026
- April 2026 (post Easter)
- May 15, 2026
Applications Open
Application Due
Interviews by Appointment
Acceptance Letters
Eligibility
Preference will be given to applicants from Iona member Episcopal dioceses, but we will consider applicants from non-Iona Episcopal dioceses and other denominations. We encourage everyone to apply.
Cost
Because this is our first cohort, everyone will receive a full scholarship. In the future, students from non-Iona dioceses or other denominations might be expected to pay for the program.
Application and Supporting Documents Due March 27, 2026
All supporting documents should be emailed to Katherine Buzzini.
- Complete the Online Application Form
- Resume or CV (emailed)
- 2-page Spiritual Autobiography (emailed)
PROMPT: In no more than 2 pages, please describe who you are spiritually. How does your religious and personal background contribute to who you are today? How has your spiritual journey thus far led you to want to be a congregational spiritual director?
- Letter of Recommendation (emailed)
- Please provide a letter of recommendation from your vestry, rector, bishop, or diocesan staff supervisor. This letter does not have to be a commitment to be your Practicum site from that church. This letter should be a letter of support for your continuing education in this ministry.
- Lay Leaders: This letter can come from the rector or a priest in charge, or the vestry.
- Rectors: Your letter can come from the vestry or Sr. Warden.
- Deacons or other clergy: Your letter can come from the rector or vestry.
- If you work for a diocese and hope to practice congregational spiritual direction as part of your paid work, your letter can come from either your bishop or the supervisor for your work with congregations.
- Please provide a letter of recommendation from your vestry, rector, bishop, or diocesan staff supervisor. This letter does not have to be a commitment to be your Practicum site from that church. This letter should be a letter of support for your continuing education in this ministry.
Please Note: You will be asked to finalize your Practicum site during Foundations 1 in Fall 2026. We understand that churches will need clear information about what is expected from a Practicum site before they can commit.
