SCHOOL OF FORMATION AND DIRECTION
A journey of heart and mind, engaging theology and embodied spiritual practices that deepen intimacy with Christ and equip for the road ahead.
Discover certificates designed to equip you for transformation in life and ministry.
Fully Online.
Cohort Model.
Transformative Learning.
Our fully online, part-time certificate programs in Spiritual Formation and Spiritual Direction, are grounded deep in the Christian faith—drawing on Scripture, the wisdom of the Church, and the way of Jesus.
Rooted in community, embodied spiritual practices, and transformational teaching, you will learn in a supportive cohort, grow in deep listening, reflective awareness, and the capacity to accompany others with greater discernment, wisdom and care.
Grow in Depth.
Be Equipped to Serve.
At Emmaus, formation is more than information; it is an invitation to be shaped by God for the sake of others. Through our fully online certificate programs, you will engage Scripture, spiritual practices, and guided experience in a way that forms both your inner life and your outward ministry.
EXPLORE OUR CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
Certificate of Spiritual Formation
TWO-YEAR, PART-TIME PROGRAM
Deepen your understanding of spiritual formation through Scripture, practices, and tradition.
Grow in your own life with God while learning how to support the formation of others.
Certificate of Spiritual Direction
THREE-YEAR, PART-TIME PROGRAM
Be trained and formed in the ministry of spiritual direction through teaching, practice, and supervision.
Develop the skills and presence needed to accompany others in their journey with God.
Advanced Certificate of Spiritual Formation
ONE-YEAR, FLEXIBLE PROGRAM
Designed for experienced spiritual directors who desire continued growth, deeper formation, and greater integration in their ministry of soul care.
Through ongoing formation and supervised practice, grow in the art and ministry of direction.
Formation isn’t only what you learn, it’s who walks with you.
Our instructors are deeply grounded in Christian theology, spiritual formation, and spiritual direction, each bringing both extensive ministry experience, and a relevant master’s or doctoral degree. Their leadership nurtures growth and transformation in the classroom, the church, and beyond.
Discerning your next step?
Explore Emmaus at an online Preview Event where you can meet staff, instructors, students, and ask your questions.
Rooted in Formation. Grounded in Practice. Connected in Community.
Christ-centered formation rooted in Scripture and prayer
Integration of theology, practice, and lived experience
Guided by experienced leaders and spiritual directors
Grow in community, reflection, and real-world application
Take your next step
Whether you are seeking deeper formation, pursuing training for ministry leadership, or discerning a call to spiritual direction, Emmaus offers a pathway to help you grow and serve faithfully.
Stories of Formation
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![Pauline Peneycad]()
"Every single course was incredibly rich; it felt like a gift the Lord gave me. It’s been a rich season of learning and growing, where Scripture is opened up in new ways, and I learn how to hear God more deeply. It’s honestly a mind-blowing experience.”
PAULINE PENEYCAD
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![Dan Armishaw]()
"Beginning practice in a new field can feel intimidating, but studying at Emmaus and hearing others share their wisdom and struggles inspired me to take each step with confidence. Emmaus has prepared me to trust that God will bring directees who are ready for the direction I offer today, and that together we will grow in faith and discernment."
DAN ARMISHAW -
![Leanne Cabral]()
"My time at Emmaus was such a gift. The studies grounded me, giving me both depth and a stronger foundation by bringing together theology, church history, and the rich streams of the Christian tradition. It was incredibly insightful; the dots connected in ways I hadn’t expected, and I am so grateful for the deep, meaningful relationships formed in my cohort."
LEANNE CABRAL -
![Agnes Leung]()
"Emmaus has shaped me through community, prayer, and shared learning. Studying here continues to be a rich season of learning that fits into the rhythms of my life. Through deep connection with like-minded students and expert teachers, I am becoming a more equipped spiritual companion in every area of my life—as a wife, mother, friend, and ministry leader."
AGNES LEUNG
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![BEV GIROUX]()
"Emmaus formed me to listen—slowly, prayerfully, and with trust in God’s gentle work. The program grounded me spiritually, surrounded me with wise companions, and gave me the confidence to step into spiritual direction with humility. I see the fruit of that formation every day with my directees and in my church."
BEV & WAYNE GIROUX -
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"Studying at Emmaus has been transformative for me. I’ve discovered God’s deep desire to be in relationship with each of us, and learned more fully what it means to be nurtured in community. My time at Emmaus has deepened my understanding of God, myself, and spiritual direction—and it’s equipped me to encourage spiritual formation within my own church."
DONNA-MICHELLE RANCOUER
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"Studying with the instructors and students at Emmaus is so uplifting and inspiring; it has felt like coming home. I am so grateful that God led me to Emmaus and this transformational experience that is empowering my ministry of helping people grow closer in their relationship with Jesus."
KAYLA COLFORD
WHAT OUR COMMUNITY SAYS
Emmaus formed me to listen deeply—to God and to others. The program grounded me spiritually, equipped me with practical skills, and surrounded me with a community of wise companions. I see the fruit of that formation every day.
BEV GIROUX
Studying at Emmaus has been transformative for me. I learned that God wants to be in relationship with each of us, today. Now I understand more fully how we learn in community and how the church community can support spiritual formation.
DONNA-MICHELLE RANCOEUR
The School showed me the power of learning in community. I could grow at my own pace and embrace the journey without fear of not being ‘advanced enough.’ Through this formation, I’ve gained confidence, joy, and the assurance that God is with me in my ministry.
DAN ARMISHAW
Still have questions?
Connect with us.
You’re welcome to reach out with any questions, or explore the FAQ below. We’re always glad to connect, schedule a Zoom conversation, and journey with you as you discern if Emmaus might be part of your journey.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Emmaus Formation Centre is a Christ-centered community committed to spiritual formation, equipping individuals to grow in their relationship with God and to accompany others in that journey. Through teaching, spiritual direction, and community, Emmaus creates spaces for attentive listening, discernment, and faithful response to the work of the Holy Spirit.
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The School of Spiritual Formation is the educational arm of Emmaus, offering structured pathways for deepening your life with God through guided learning, spiritual practices, and community. It is a formational—not merely academic—experience designed to cultivate spiritual maturity, discernment, and the capacity to serve others.
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This school is for anyone who desires to grow deeper in their relationship with God—whether you are a pastor, leader, spiritual companion, or simply seeking personal spiritual formation. No prior theological education is required.
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No. Our programs are open to those with a sincere desire to grow in prayer, discernment, and life with God. We welcome both those in ministry and those exploring their calling.
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The program is part-time and designed to fit alongside your current life and responsibilities, with a rhythm of learning, practice, and reflection throughout the year.
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Yes. The School of Spiritual Formation is offered online, allowing you to participate from wherever you are while still engaging in meaningful community and formation.
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This is not primarily an academic program—it is formational. While you will engage Scripture and theology, the focus is on transformation: cultivating a deeper life with God and integrating what you learn into everyday life.
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Yes. Spiritual direction is an important part of the formation process, helping you attend to God’s presence and grow in discernment throughout your journey.
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Yes. The Certificate in Spiritual Formation can serve as a pathway into further training in spiritual direction for those who discern that calling.
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After you submit your application, our team will review it and follow up with next steps, which may include a conversation to help discern your readiness and fit for the program.
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Programs typically begin at set times throughout the year. Check the application page for current dates and deadlines.
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If you sense a desire for deeper formation, a longing to grow in your life with God, or a call to accompany others spiritually, this may be a meaningful next step. You don’t need certainty—just openness and willingness.