Via Divina: The Celtic Way for Faculty
June 24 to July 23, 2021
Dear GFM Staff:
You are invited to join in this year’s digital pilgrimage experience.
In the Celtic tradition of Christianity, pilgrims didn’t have a definite destination. They only knew and trusted the trinitarian God who called them as they headed out. This could be a description of the past year which has felt like a time of wandering for many people. We long for some anchor in this uncertainty.
The Celtic Way for Faculty will provide resources for faculty, administrators, students, ministry partners, and others to find that anchor. This experience is designed with busy schedules and zoom fatigue in mind. Similar to the Digital Camino, it will include.
- Eight Walks: With a curated audio guide
- Visio Divina: Contemplation with an original work of art
- Community: Form your own group or join one hosted by InterVarsity staff
- And More: Webinars, spiritual direction, creative activities
To cover the cost of producing and running The Celtic Way prices range from $80 - $20 (see more below). InterVarsity staff can participate without charge. As we’ve talked with faculty, the cost does not appear to be an issue as they are used to paying for online conferences over the past year. Even so, we don’t want cost to be a barrier for anyone, so scholarships are available (there is a place to request a scholarship on the registration form) and there is a discount for signing up with a group.
As you consider using this resource with faculty, students, and ministry partners this summer, here is some additional information to help.
Two Celtic Ways
To dispel any confusion, this summer there will be two Celtic Way experiences. Study Abroad is hosting the one that is starting on May 14. The Celtic Way for Faculty that starts on June 23 is the version that Faculty Ministry is hosting and will contain elements that are more GFM specific. This second version is the one we are inviting you to participate in. Even though Faculty is in the title, it is open to staff, students, and ministry partners.
Testimonies from Faculty
Opportunities for Participants
- Encounter God through scripture, story, and spiritual disciplines.
- Reflect on the past year and look to a post-pandemic reality on campus through a posture of healing and restoration.
- Focus on seeing God’s presence in the midst of our wandering lives.
- Release the illusion of control in order to trust in God, centering their identity in Christ.
- Be in community and walk with soul friends.
- Receive encouragement in living integrated lives.
- Connect with students and faculty across the country and make new connections locally - perhaps even start new witnessing communities on their campuses.
Invitations for GFM Staff
- Invite grad and faculty groups to participate together
- Invite ministry partners to join in this ministry experience
- Lead a debrief group on your campus/area/region.
- Offer a webinar, workshop, or conversation either nationally or locally
Debrief Groups
We’ve designed the cost structure so that those gathering in debrief groups they create will get a significant discount, this includes groups that you form. If you or someone in your region/area/campus is planning on facilitating a debrief group you are welcome to invite faculty and others to join in those groups at a discounted price. They will just need to enter the name of the group name or leader when they register. If you are interested in leading a debrief group, please contact Bob Trube (bob.trube@intervarsity.org).
Invite Others
Below are a couple of files you can use in social media and e-mail as you invite people, along with language for an e-mail.
Finally, you can learn more and register at gfm.intervarsity.org/via-divina. If you have other questions about The Celtic Way for Faculty contact Jamie Noyd (jamie.noyd@intervarsity.org).
*The costs for this four week experience cover the many hours a team has dedicated to the design, writing, and production of the audio guides, journal, and other elements; the creation of nine original art pieces; webinar speakers; pilgrimage hosts; along with other expenses.
Example email invitation for faculty, students, and others
You are invited to join [include name of area/region/chapter] to wander with God this summer.
Via Divina: The Celtic Way for Faculty
June 24 to July 23
In the Celtic tradition of Christianity, pilgrims didn’t have a definite destination. They only knew and trusted the trinitarian God who called them as they headed out. This could be a description of the past year which has felt like a time of wandering for many people. We long for some anchor in this uncertainty.
This summer InterVarsity Faculty Ministries is offering an opportunity to find that anchor. Take time each week from June 24 to July 23 to engage with the Triune God—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—as we explore the roots and branches of the biblical Christianity practiced by early Celtic followers of Jesus.
- Eight Walks: With a curated audio guide
- Community: Form your own group or join one hosted by InterVarsity staff
- And More: Webinars, spiritual direction, creative activities
All faculty are invited to this digital experience along with spouses, administrators, students, and anyone who loves faculty.
If you long for a way to practice the presence of God in the midst of this time, on your campus, and in your community, join us this summer.
Learn more and register at gfm.intervarsity.org/via-divina
