At the recent C4SO clergy retreat, we had the opportunity to remember and reflect on the unique relationship between the Vineyard and Anglicanism that, through the Holy Spirit, was instrumental in the founding of our diocese. That distinctiveness has given us a particular charism that God has and is using to produce an abundance of kingdom fruit!
At the same time, we see how vital hallmarks of Anglicanism such as a commitment to catholicity and a reverence for the Great Tradition are influencing the Vineyard as well. One particular manifestation of that is the Order of the Common Life—a global, ecumenical religious order that is seeking to retrieve the history and witness of the monastic tradition for the sake of seeing God’s people and churches deeply formed in the love of God.
For the last five years, C4SO’s Fresh Expressions, led by the Rev. Dr. JR Rozko, has partnered with OCL in the development of an Anglican chapter of the Order, in their training of spiritual directors, and in making formational resources accessible to our churches.
It’s in these areas that we want to extend a few invitations.
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Explore formation in a shared rule of life
For those who might want to explore a formation aimed at noticing and nurturing the love of God and becoming part of an Anglican chapter of OCL, postulancy cohorts are convened every fall. There are interest meetings to learn more about this coming up on May 18 & 19. Learn more and register for an interest meeting -
Pursue training as a spiritual director
OCL takes an apprentice-based approach to training spiritual directors. This can be engaged individually anytime or via a cohort, which begin in September. Both are fully online options. For existing spiritual directors, OCL also offers advanced training to lead others through the Ignatian Exercises. Learn more here -
Deepen formational opportunities at your church.
Alongside the above, OCL also offers a number of free resources to help congregations pursue formation in the love of God.
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Training Spiritual Companions – a pre-built curriculum to train lay leaders in the ministry of companioning others in their spiritual journey
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Formational Healing Retreat – a Fri/Sat in-person retreat to help congregations understand and pursue healing and wholeness
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A Contemplative Foundation – a 10-week, practice-based course for groups that want to explore or deepen their contemplative formation
“We offered OCL’s ‘A Contemplative Foundation’ because we wanted to create space for members of our church to begin ‘noticing’ their lives. The material was thoughtful and rich, but also flexible and easy to adapt to our needs. Compared to previous programs, we had higher and more consistent attendance in this course from members in all stages of life, including several visitors who described the program as a perfect way to make connections and understand the heart of our church.” —The Rev. Kolby Kerr, Restoration Anglican Church
To learn more about any of these resources, drop JR Rozko a line!