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Course
Internal and External Spiritual Formation
~15 Hours
We are all formed by external and internal experiences. Often, spiritual formation is solely talked about and engaged with from the perspective of being transformed from the inside out, without recognizing the power of being shaped by things outside us. This course, Internal and External Spiritual Formation, looks at the current spaces of formation—ones we’re learning more about, like neurobiology, and others that we are still discovering the effects of, such as the digital world.
Laura Murray
About This Course
Spiritual growth is a rich journey that is often solely described as being transformed from the inside out. Yet it's important to recognize that our external environment can have a powerful impact on our spiritual development. Neglecting this connection can sometimes lead to confusion or even a sense of disconnection from the world around us. But you don't have to navigate this path alone. In the course, Internal and External Spiritual Formation, you'll explore how your surroundings—people, technology, even neurobiology—affect your spiritual journey. Join Rev. Dr. Laura Murray, ordained pastor, author, and certified spiritual director, as she guides you through the effects of anxiety, shame, and trauma on your spiritual life. You'll also learn how spiritual practices can help position you to receive healing and transformation, leading you to love well, use your God-given gifts, and bring shalom to your life and the lives of those around you.
Please note: This course is the recommended third course in the Spiritual Formation Certificate Program.
Learning Outcomes
- Practice engaging with anxiousness, shame, and trauma through spiritual practices
- Recognize the benefits of including spiritual practices for healing against the effects of trauma
- Describe how neuroplasticity can affect how your spiritual life is being shaped
Created in partnership with the Fuller Center for Spiritual Formation and FULLER Equip.
- Spiritual Formation & Vocation or Calling
- Spiritual Formation
1. Getting Started
How We Are Formed
2. Formed: From Inside Out and Outside In
3. Anxiety and Living Systems
Shame, Trauma, and Community
4. Shame and the Gift of Community
5. Trauma and Accompaniment
6. Lament and Community
The Digital World and Discernment
7. The Digital World and Engagement
8. Engaging Technology with Discernment and Wisdom
Neuroplasticity and Transformation
9. Neuroplasticity
Conclusion
10. Conclusion & Final Activity
11. Next Steps
Your Instructor
Laura Murray
Pastor, Author, Spiritual Director
Laura Murray is the director of Spiritual Engagement and Innovation at Fuller Seminary’s Center for Spiritual Formation. She is also a spiritual director, retreat leader, writer, and Presbyterian pastor. She was born to first-generation Armenian immigrants who adventured from Tehran to Houston just before she was born. Laura has spent over 20 years in ministry in spiritual formation, pastoring, writing, and developing leaders. She holds a Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Seminary and a Master's in Theology. Laura lives with her family in the Dallas area. She believes dessert is only dessert if it involves chocolate.
