The Transformational Storytelling training program is dedicated to developing your skills and spiritual depth as a transformational storyteller, with strong foundations in the Jewish tradition of maggidut: the art and practice of being a Maggid/Maggidah, an ordained transformational storyteller and guide.
This program is ideal for Jewish students who desire s’micha, or ordination as a Maggid/Maggidah, but students from other faith traditions will find their own storytelling and spirituality deepened as well. This is because there is a special track on the challenges and benefits of multi-faith spiritual discovery; as such, we have regular guest faculty from a variety of religions – you can read some of their biographies here.
Each of us experiences spirituality in a “language” across a range from universal to particular: we recognize both the common values that underpin all faith traditions and the variety of practices and forms that are unique to each tradition. It has been our consistent experience that the more someone opens up to different – especially unfamiliar – expressions of faith and spirituality, the more they can deepen their own spirituality and faith traditions.
This is noble, challenging, and ultimately deeply transformative work, both for the “tellers” and the audience. As such, it requires facility in and knowledge of one’s own tradition, other traditions, and the art and science of spiritual storytelling. Additionally, development of these skills requires and results in personal spiritual transformation.
To accomplish this, Transformational Storytelling is a two-year experience divided into four semesters. You can find the contents of each semester here and the overall schedule here. You may enroll or request more information here.
There are three themes which are explored throughout the program:
- Jewish foundations
- Multifaith foundations
- Storytelling foundations
There are two semesters a year. Each semester is made up of ten classes – approximately every other week – which is followed by an optional (but highly recommended) weekend of face-to-face study and public performance. These weekends are typically held in the Syracuse area, but may be located elsewhere to meet student needs.
Additionally, spiritual direction takes place in private one-to-one calls, once per month. Students may choose to pursue this with me (at no extra charge) or with a spiritual director of their choosing.
Jewish students who wish are eligible to receive s’micha – ordination – after the successful completion of the two years and a special project in the final semester. Non-Jewish students, or those Jewish students not seeking s’micha, will receive a certificate as a spiritual storyteller.
Important Links:
Please contact me with any questions at JimBrule@TransformationalStorytelling.org!