The Priestess Curriculum

The Priestess Curriculum is a four-year, interdisciplinary program designed to prepare individuals for spiritual leadership in the modern world. Blending ancient wisdom and contemporary knowledge, the curriculum fosters personal growth, intellectual depth, and practical skills, enabling graduates to serve diverse communities with insight, compassion, and integrity.

Year One: Foundations of Spiritual Leadership

The first year of study is designed to lay a solid foundation for students embarking on a journey of spiritual leadership, providing them with a broad and diverse academic base. This curriculum is crafted to introduce students to essential concepts and disciplines that are crucial for understanding the multifaceted nature of spirituality, human behavior, and societal dynamics. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, students are prepared to engage thoughtfully and effectively in various spiritual and community leadership roles.

The courses in this first year encompass a wide range of topics—from the study of world religions and ethical decision-making to the basics of psychology and sociology. Each course is carefully selected to contribute to a holistic understanding of both the internal and external factors that influence spiritual life and leadership. As students progress through these foundational courses, they will develop the critical thinking, communication, and ethical reasoning skills necessary for effective spiritual guidance and community involvement.

Introduction to World Religions: This course explores the world's major religions, delving into their beliefs, practices, histories, and cultural contexts. Students gain a broad understanding of the diverse spiritual landscapes that shape human societies and individual lives. The World's Religions by Huston Smith serves as the primary text, offering an in-depth overview of religions including Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and primal religions, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of global religious diversity.

Foundations of Psychology: This course introduces the fundamental concepts, theories, and research methods in psychology. It equips students with a solid understanding of the scientific study of mind and behavior, essential for those seeking to serve as spiritual guides or leaders. Topics include perception, cognition, emotion, personality, and interpersonal relationships, with Psychology: The Science of Mind and Behavior by Michael Passer and Ronald Smith as the primary text.

Introduction to Sociology: Offering an overview of sociology, this course focuses on the study of social structures, cultural norms, and societal changes. Students learn how societies function and evolve, which is crucial for serving as spiritual leaders within a community. Sociology: A Global Perspective by Joan Ferrante is the primary text, introducing students to sociology from a global perspective and encouraging critical thinking about the world.

Basic Ethics: This course explores moral philosophy and ethical decision-making, particularly in the context of spiritual leadership. Students study ethical theories and principles and learn to apply them in real-world contexts. Ethics: The Essential Writings, edited by Gordon Marino, provides a broad overview of ethical thought, offering valuable insights into the complexities of ethical theory and practice.

Public Speaking: This course develops effective public speaking and communication skills, crucial for leaders in religious and spiritual communities. Students learn speech preparation, delivery techniques, audience engagement, and the use of visual aids. Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo is the primary text, offering practical advice on storytelling, persuasion, and presentation.

Introduction to Spirituality: This course provides an overview of various spiritual practices and beliefs, exploring their historical origins, cultural contexts, and psychological impacts. The Spiritual Brain by Mario Beauregard and Denyse O'Leary offers a neuroscientific perspective on spirituality, arguing that spiritual experiences provide genuine insights into reality.

Year Two: Deepening Theological and Social Understanding

Building upon the foundational knowledge gained in the first year, the second-year curriculum delves deeper into the complexities of religious studies, psychology, and sociology, offering students a more nuanced and comparative understanding of spirituality and human behavior. This year is designed to challenge students to think critically about the interplay between religion, society, and individual psychology, equipping them with advanced insights and analytical tools necessary for spiritual leadership.

The courses in the second year explore various dimensions of religious thought and practice, from comparative religion to the sociology of religion, while also examining the psychological underpinnings of social behavior within religious contexts. Through these courses, students will gain a deeper understanding of the ethical, philosophical, and social dynamics that shape religious experiences and communities. This year’s curriculum also introduces students to advanced theological and philosophical inquiries, encouraging them to engage with complex questions about faith, morality, and the cosmos.

To ensure a balanced and comprehensive progression, two additional courses—one on interpreting sacred texts and one on interfaith dialogue—have been included. This integrated perspective is essential for those preparing to take on leadership roles within spiritual and religious communities, enabling them to navigate the diverse challenges and opportunities they will encounter in their careers.

Comparative Religion - This course takes a deep dive into the world's major religions, exploring their core beliefs, practices, and ethical systems. It encourages students to draw comparisons and identify differences between various religious traditions, fostering a nuanced understanding of global spirituality. The course covers a wide range of religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and indigenous spiritualities. The primary text for this course is Comparative Religious Ethics: A Narrative Approach to Global Ethics by Darrell J. Fasching, Dell deChant, and David M. Lantigua.

Social Psychology - This course delves into the fascinating field of social psychology, studying how individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others. It covers a range of topics, including social cognition, attitudes, social influence, interpersonal relationships, group behavior, and cultural impacts on behavior. The course encourages students to apply these concepts to understand the dynamics within religious and spiritual communities. The primary text for this course is Social Psychology by Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, and Robin M. Akert.

Sociology of Religion - This course offers an in-depth examination of religious phenomena and institutions from a sociological perspective. It explores how religion shapes and is shaped by social structures, cultural norms, and societal changes. Topics covered include the social functions of religion, the impact of religion on social behavior, religious movements and organizations, and the role of religion in contemporary society. The primary text for this course is The Sociology of Religion by Max Weber.

Theology, Philosophy, and Cosmology in Religion - This course provides a comprehensive exploration of theological concepts, philosophical examinations of religion, and cosmological narratives within specific religious traditions. It delves into the philosophical and theological underpinnings of various religious beliefs, practices, and worldviews, exploring how these are expressed in the cosmological narratives of different religions. The primary texts for this course are The Essential Mystics, Poets, Saints, and Sages: A Wisdom Treasury by Richard Hooper, Philosophy of Religion: A Contemporary Introduction by Keith E. Yandell, and A History of Islamic Philosophy by Majid Fakhry.

Hermeneutics and Sacred Texts - This course guides students in the art and science of interpreting sacred writings within various religious traditions. Through critical reading, historical context analysis, and comparative methods, students learn to approach sacred texts with both reverence and scholarly rigor. Key readings may include selected excerpts from Reading the Bible Again for the First Time by Marcus J. Borg and The Qur'an (translated by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem), among other canonical texts from diverse faiths. The goal is to provide a deeper appreciation for how sacred writings shape beliefs, ethics, and community practices.

Interfaith Dialogue and Community Outreach - Focusing on practical engagement with diverse faith communities, this course provides students with strategies for constructive dialogue, conflict resolution, and collaborative outreach initiatives. By examining real-world case studies of successful interfaith partnerships, students learn the value of empathy, mutual respect, and shared goals. Texts may include Interfaith Leadership: A Primer by Eboo Patel and Acts of Faith: The Story of an American Muslim by the same author, offering frameworks for building bridges across religious differences.

Year Three: Advanced Psychological and Spiritual Studies

As students enter their third year of study, the curriculum shifts to focus on more specialized and advanced topics, preparing them for the complexities and responsibilities of spiritual leadership. This year’s courses are designed to deepen students’ understanding of psychological, spiritual, and ethical issues, equipping them with the tools needed to support and guide individuals and communities through various challenges.

The third-year curriculum explores the intricacies of mental health, group behavior, and advanced spiritual practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding both individual and collective dynamics. Courses in abnormal psychology and group dynamics provide students with a strong foundation in psychological concepts that are crucial for addressing the mental and emotional well-being of those they will serve. Additionally, advanced courses in spirituality, theology, and community building foster a deeper understanding of spiritual practices and the role of leadership in creating and sustaining meaningful connections within communities.

This year also places a strong emphasis on the practical application of ethical principles and mindfulness practices, encouraging students to integrate these elements into their personal lives and their work as spiritual leaders. By the end of this year, students will be well-prepared to navigate the complex intersection of spirituality, psychology, and ethics, and to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

Abnormal Psychology - This course delves into the study of the nature, causes, and treatment of mental disorders, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of abnormal psychology. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to understand and support individuals in crisis, which is a crucial aspect of spiritual leadership. The primary text for this course is Abnormal Psychology by Ronald J. Comer.

Group Dynamics - This course examines the behaviors and psychological processes that occur within a social group (intragroup dynamics), as well as between different social groups (intergroup dynamics). It provides students with a deep understanding of the complexities of group behavior, including the roles and relationships within groups and the impact of group norms and values. The primary text for this course is Group Dynamics by Donelson R. Forsyth.

Advanced Spirituality and Theological Practices - This course delves into advanced spiritual practices and theological concepts within various religious traditions. Texts include The Idea of the Holy by Rudolf Otto, The Reality of Being: The Fourth Way of Gurdjieff by Jeanne de Salzmann, and The Web of Meaning: Integrating Science and Traditional Wisdom to Find Our Place in the Universe by Jeremy Lent.

Leadership and Community Building - This course focuses on the skills necessary for leading and fostering a sense of community within a religious context. It explores the dynamics of community building, the role of leadership in fostering belonging, and the ways in which spiritual leaders can facilitate meaningful connections. Community: The Structure of Belonging by Peter Block is the primary text.

Meditation and Mindfulness - This course provides an in-depth exploration of various meditation techniques and mindfulness practices. The Miracle of Mindfulness: An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation by Thich Nhat Hanh serves as the primary text.

Ethics and Lifeways in Spiritual Practice - This course delves into the ethical considerations and lifestyle practices that are integral to our spiritual tradition. Readings include The Gardener and the Carpenter by Alison Gopnik, The Scout Mindset: Why Some People See Things Clearly and Others Don't by Julia Galef, and Letters from a Stoic by Seneca.

Year Four: Mastery and Application of Spiritual Leadership

The fourth year marks the culmination of the academic journey, where students transition from theoretical learning to practical application, preparing to take on leadership roles in their spiritual communities. This year is designed to integrate the knowledge and skills acquired in previous years with hands-on experiences, allowing students to refine their expertise in spiritual leadership and apply it in real-world contexts.

The curriculum in the final year focuses on advanced topics such as ritual design, counseling, crisis management, and shamanic practices, providing students with the tools they need to lead and support their communities through various spiritual and personal challenges. Courses such as "Rituals, Ceremonies, and Sacred Celebrations" and "Counseling Techniques" emphasize both the theoretical foundations and practical skills necessary for creating meaningful spiritual experiences and offering compassionate guidance.

Students will also explore specialized areas of spiritual practice, including the use of entheogens in shamanic traditions and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. These courses encourage a deep exploration of mystical experiences and the philosophical underpinnings of spiritual practices, equipping students with a broad and nuanced understanding of diverse spiritual pathways.

The year culminates in a Senior Capstone Project or Internship, where students demonstrate their readiness to step into leadership roles. This project allows students to apply their learning in a real-world setting, offering a valuable opportunity to integrate and showcase their skills in spiritual leadership. Whether through community service, original research, or hands-on leadership experience, the capstone project is designed to prepare students for the challenges and responsibilities they will face in their future roles.

Rituals, Ceremonies, and Sacred Celebrations: Theory and Practice - This course offers an in-depth exploration of rituals, ceremonies, and sacred celebrations from various religious traditions. Students will learn not only the theoretical foundations of these practices but also how to design and lead meaningful rituals that resonate with our spiritual values. Texts like The Book of Ceremonies by Gabriel Horn, Ritual and Religion in the Making of Humanity by Roy A. Rappaport, and The Rites of Passage by Arnold van Gennep provide a broad perspective on how ritual informs cultural and communal identity.

Counseling Techniques - This course is designed to equip spiritual leaders with the basic skills necessary for effective counseling and pastoral care. Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy by Gerald Corey is a comprehensive guide to the major theories of counseling and psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, existential, and integrative approaches.

Crisis Management and Conflict Resolution - This course addresses key skills in crisis management and conflict resolution, essential for spiritual leaders navigating complex interpersonal dynamics and unexpected challenges. Crisis Management: Leading in the New Strategy Landscape by William Rick Crandall, John A. Parnell, and John E. Spillan provides a comprehensive overview of crisis management in the modern world.

Shamanic and Entheogenic Practices – This course delves into practices that lead to transformative spiritual experiences, with a particular focus on shamanic soul traveling and the use of entheogens. The Way of the Shaman by Michael Harner and Shamanism: Archaic Techniques of Ecstasy by Mircea Eliade provide foundational insights into shamanic journeys and the role of altered states across cultures.

The Path to Enlightenment - This course explores the philosophical and practical aspects of achieving spiritual enlightenment, drawing from both Eastern and Western perspectives. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle, The Perennial Philosophy by Aldous Huxley, and Rainbow Body and Resurrection by Francis V. Tiso serve as core texts.

Senior Capstone Project/Internship in Spiritual Leadership - This course provides a culminating experience for students, allowing them to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained throughout their studies in a practical setting. The capstone project or internship is a significant undertaking that requires students to demonstrate their ability to integrate and apply the principles of spiritual leadership in a real-world context.

Advanced Degrees and Specializations

For those who feel called to deepen their expertise within our spiritual tradition, advanced degrees offer a pathway to specialized and transformative study. At the next level, comparable to a Master’s degree, students can focus on honing their skills in specific areas such as pastoral care, spiritual counseling, ritual leadership, and community outreach. This phase of training is designed to refine and expand both spiritual and practical abilities, preparing individuals to take on greater responsibilities and leadership roles within our community.

For those with a profound dedication to advancing our tradition, the highest level of training, akin to a doctoral degree, offers an opportunity to make significant contributions to our theology and practice. Similar to academic scholars, these individuals engage in producing original theological work, innovating ritual practices, and mentoring the next generation of priestesses. Their contributions are crucial for the ongoing growth and vitality of our tradition, ensuring its evolution and relevance for future generations.

This advanced educational structure not only cultivates a wide range of specialized skills and knowledge to better serve our community but also provides a clear and fulfilling path for those who wish to dedicate themselves fully to the priestesshood. By encouraging specialization and recognizing individual talents, we foster a diverse and unified priestesshood, enriched by the unique gifts each member brings to our spiritual community.