Christian Formation & Direction Ministries, NorthWest
OUR PURPOSE is captured in the words of Jesus who invites us to come take a rest: “Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.” (Matt 11:28-29 - The Message). In and through CFDM, we hope people are finding these “unforced rhythms of grace.”
WHAT WE DO: Christian Formation & Direction Ministries Northwest (CFDM NW) is a Christian ministry offering intentional learning communities in which to explore the soul-shaping experience of God in all of life.
To learn what CFDM is offering for training, workshops and contemplative retreats, please read below and continue to visit our home page for updates. You can also check our Facebook page, and/or sign up to receive our newsletter. To support CFDM, please visit our Giving page.
spiritual direction training
CFDM-NW trains spiritual directors in the Pacific Northwest, to companion others on their journey with God. Our Spiritual Direction Training program is an alternative to seminary for mature Christians who want training in offering spiritual direction and the contemplative life. It offers practical hands-on training, including courses in spiritual theology, spiritual traditions, spiritual formation, along with practicum, case studies, and supervision in giving and receiving spiritual direction. This is a two-year certificate program with small learning cohorts, training people to companion others as they walk the story of their life with God. Learn more...
The Spiritual Direction Training Program starts with a Year of Discernment.
going deeper in relationship with god
CFDM-NW offers opportunities for individuals to learn and practice contemplative prayer in community. All are welcome at these retreats and workshops. Participants learn and experience contemplative prayer practices which enrich and deepen their relationship with the Triune God. A transformed life is a gift received, not a goal achieved. It happens when we create space for noticing what God is already doing in our life. Through spending time with, reflecting on, and resting in God, we come to know personally, and more fully, God’s immense love for us. We are God’s Beloved!
Online Mini Retreats
One Saturday each month: Sept. 2024 May 2025
Time: 10am - 12noon, PST
Cost: A donation of any amount is greatly appreciated! Suggested donation $25
“The Pilgrimage: Exploring and Expressing Your Spiritual Journey”
April 26, 2025, with Marsha Crockett
Pilgrimage has been an ancient practice of devoted followers of Jesus. And while we may participate in a literal pilgrimage through the Holy Land, on the Camino de Santiago, or other sacred journeys, our everyday life also is our most accessible pilgrimage experience. This mini retreat will invite you to consider: The Trailhead (where it all began for you), the Mile Markers (tracing the map of your life), the Road Conditions (where you walk today) and the Rest Stops (needed for the journey forward.)
“Enjoying the Presence of God”
May 24, 2025, with Wendy Choy
In this mini retreat, we use our five God-gifted senses to see the sight, hear the sound, smell the scent, feel the touch, and taste the flavor - resting our heart in the loving presence of God in our surroundings, within us, and in the community of God.
Group Spiritual Direction - Listening to God through scripture
Listening To God Through Scripture is a process in which people come together on a monthly basis to do some “deep listening” of a passage from scripture.
These meetings are currently virtual, and there is no fee to participate. New group members are added to groups after attending a drop-in session, or a one-on-one session with a director to walk you through the process.
Invite Us To Your Church
We would love to partner with your church as you deepen your desire for disciples who are experiencing freedom in their encounters with Christ. Contact us to start a conversation today!
A few years back, I said yes to something I rarely say yes to: a last-minute invitation. Honestly, though, I sometimes don’t say yes to first-minute invitations, either. Weeks or months in advance, I’ll buy a ticket to a concert or ballgame and then, day of, hem and haw about going... more than a few times content to stay put, and savor the moment I’m already in.
But following this particular last-minute yes, I found myself in a small sea of listeners, at Seattle’s Benaroya Hall, while two men in armchairs, bathed in warm theater light, chatted on stage. The interviewee, writer and farmer, Wendell Berry. And while I don’t recall most of what he said that night, I do remember how I felt, listening.