engaging the sacred

an 8-week generative workshop series

with Jessica Star Rockers

Dates TBD

why engaging the sacred?

“Nothing here below is profane for those who know how to see. On the contrary, everything is sacred.” Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Each of us holds deep spiritual truths within us. Accessing this inner wisdom requires entering the mystery of our own creativity. In this course we will honor the sacred in the everyday and engage with the holy through ritual, music, and the wisdom of modern prophets. Through this encounter we open ourselves up to our own spiritual abundance. Each class will include a nurturing ritual, meditation, time for writing and a time for sharing. Only supportive feedback will be provided and only when requested by the writer.

what kind of writer should take this course?

This generative workshop is for writers who are new to spiritual writing and seasoned spiritual writers looking to generate new material. Each class will be on a different spiritual theme. You may attend as a creative outlet for your spiritual journey or to generate material for writing grounded in spirituality.

what are the requirements?

Longer readings will be assigned outside of class to expand our awareness of how “spiritual” writing can be both religious and secular. Technical requirements include a computer with camera and audio to connect to Zoom and comfort navigating an online learning platform. Spiritual encouragements include an open mind, an open heart, and the willingness to enter into sacred communal space.

how does this remote course work?

This course takes place on Elephant Rock’s course platform: Mighty Networks. Our course has a designated course page with course materials, a private group chat, and an events tab where each session runs as a Zoom meeting.

what will writers take away?

At the end of the workshop you will have several solid beginnings to new works as well as a weekly ritual of engaging the sacred through your writing.

who is the teacher?

Rev. Jessica Star Rockers is an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister with an MDiv from Meadville Lombard Theological School and an MFA in Creative Nonfiction from the Inland Northwest Center for Writers. Her essays and poetry have appeared in Noö JournalFeminist Review, MelusineThematic, and others. Formerly she was managing editor for Willow Springs Literary Magazine and nonfiction editor for Crab Creek Review. She has served as a parish minister in congregations across the Pacific Northwest where she lives with her family & other animals.

what is the cost?

Elephant Rock tuition for this course is $499 (non- refundable). Under normal circumstances, full payment is due at least 15 days before the workshop begins. Extended payment plans may be available in cases of significant economic hardship. Please send an email to inquire.

what have other writers had to say about Jessica Star Rockers?

“Jessica is a born poet and teacher. In every real conversation, and in her work, she has the vision to witness the polarity of a topic or theme, and then find a path to peace, diplomacy, and compromise. Jessica brings a profound sense of understanding to a conversation with her natural ability to empathize and has this magic combination of humor and relatability to boot. She doesn’t dole out advice or make presumption – she listens deeply and builds upon an underlying theme, drawing from her own experiences, observations and vulnerability.”

how do I sign up?

Please click below to complete course registration and payment:

Elephant Rock does not discriminate against anyone, regardless of age, color of skin, national origin, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, gender expression and identity, sexual orientation, or anything else. We expect the same from our all of our participants.