Within the Religious Society of Friends, the traditional meetings of ministers and elders were sometimes referred to as a "school of the Spirit." In gathered worship Friends learned to discern the movement of the Inward Teacher and test their discernment with one another. This practiced listening extended into every aspect of their lives. Living into this way of being is not always easy; we often resist, preferring to ignore God's promptings into an ever-deepening union. But the still, quiet voice will not be silent, and with discipline and with the support of others we can find ourselves becoming more faithful.

This ministry offers two forms of program to deepen our faithfulness: the two-year program of prayer and study On Being a Spiritual Nurturer, first offered in 1990 and starting its eighth class in 2009; and the tradition of Silent Retreats started at Sadsbury meetinghouse, PA, in 1962, and more recently offered annually in extended format at Powell House as Dwelling Deep. In each of these settings we have the opportunity to reflect upon the presence of God in our lives and willingness to deepen our commitment to God's comfort and guidance. Nurturing and practicing our capacity for compassion is essential for our inward preparation for ministry.

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