We are excited to offer the following PILOT program for the SMdM SU beginning January 20, 2009. This PILOT program is designed to provide nourishment, comfort and direction on your spiritual journey. It will focus on Self-Knowledge through

• scriptural studies based on St. Paul's 1st letter to the Corinthians;
• teachings and reflections concerning forgiveness and reconciliation;
• a presentation and discussion of the Beatitudes and
• meditations and discussions based on Lenten Lectionary readings.
These four courses will help you know and understand yourself better and learn how God is leading you to fulfill His plan. Future course offerings will depend on the success of this pilot program -- so please plan to attend and bring a friend or two.
Fr. Al Esposito: First Corinthians

This year's theme is self-knowledge as a stage on the road to conversion. One of the best guides on this spiritual journey is St. Paul. Our class will use the first twelve chapters: The cross, community and love. One class will be devoted to each of these important Pauline themes.

• Jan. 20: Through understanding the cross we discover our true self.
• Jan. 27: Through living in community with joy and generosity we become aware of our gifts and talents.
• Feb. 3: Through God's love we enter into the glory of being free.


Click here for the text of 1 Corinthians, Community Bible: Catholic Pastoral Edition
Click here for commentary on 1 Corinthians: Catholic Pastoral Edition

Bill Brennan: Forgiveness: or, the lack of forgiveness

Forgiveness: or, the lack of forgiveness, has physical, emotional and spiritual consequences. What are they? What is forgiveness? How do we receive it? How do we give it?

• Feb. 10: Forgiveness / What is it?
• Feb. 17: Forgiveness / How do we receive it?
• Feb. 24: Forgiveness / How do we give it?
Frank Hoffman: Beatitudes

Beatitudes in the Gospel of Matthew-Spiritual and personal growth. Knowledge and understanding one's self. Analysis of the Beatitudes. Sermon on the Mount. Importance of Prayer. Love of God. Love of Neighbor. Human Development. Practical Applications. Goal Setting.

• Mar. 3:   Beatitudes -- One's Strengths
• Mar. 10: Beatitudes -- One's Weaknesses
• Mar. 17: Beatitudes -- One's Abilities
Lectionary Based Reflection: John Pires, Bob Moynihan, Frank Hoffman
• Mar. 24
• Mar. 31
• Apr. 7
Contemplative Prayer with Bob Moynihan: All Wednesdays at 10 AM
Future course offerings will depend on the success of this PILOT program, so please plan to attend and bring a friend or two.

Year 2 Self-Acceptance

Through scriptural studies, teachings, reflections, meditations and discussions, in the second year, you'll discover that God is all you need. That He loves you right where you're at and you need only trust in His will.

Year 3 Self-Transcendence

The goal of this 3rd year of study is the total, generous surrender of ourselves to God's will in complete trust. This allows Him to do wondrous works through us by His miraculous power. A humble, docile, generous heart will provide immeasurable fruits of peace, joy and eternal happiness.

We ask that you pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance in making your decision to enroll in the PILOT program and consider the future programs offered.

We lovingly offer this program to you in the service of the Church as we build the Kingdom of God here at Santa Maria del Mar through the grace of the Holy Spirit in Jesus' name.

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