Focused Learning
Our program is divided into four learning modules. Each module includes reading, practical assignments, and a retreat with classes, discussion, and activities so that students are putting into practice what they are learning and gaining hands-on experience.
Module 1: Foundations of Formation
Understand God's vision for a good life and be transformed through disciplines of grace.
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Engage in the kingdom-establishing work of Christ by pursuing the "good life" for all people living in a broken world.
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Pursue a life of radical apprenticeship to Jesus by practicing discernment and cultivating habits that make you more like Jesus and push you to love your neighbors.
Module 2: Purposeful Life Work
Reframe your work to find meaning and purpose in all of your paid and unpaid labors.
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Do your work faithfully as a steward of God's kingdom and a witness of His goodness.
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Serve others through your work by utilizing your individual gifts, abilities, opportunities.
Module 3: People & Place
Invest in the people and places nearest to you with a vision for their flourishing.
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Engage with a diversity of others through regular practices of hospitality and bridge-building to demonstrate the love, welcome, and compassion of Jesus.
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Care for the physical spaces, communities, and environments in which you live as an agent of flourishing in God’s kingdom on earth.
Module 4: Living for Shalom
Seek the common good of your city - the peace and prosperity of a society for all people - giving special attention to the poor, oppressed, and marginalized.
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Cultivate a curiosity in understanding the stories, experiences, and needs of the people in your community and actively participate in meeting needs through service and generosity as you are uniquely able.
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Practice humble and compassionate political and civic engagement as an avenue for seeking justice, peace, and prosperity for all people.
Retreats
Four retreats are held each year. Retreats are not overnight. They include sessions or film screenings on Friday evening and sessions, lunch and activities on Saturday in Lancaster, PA.
Applicants must able to commit to attending all retreats in order to be considered for acceptance into the program.
2025-2026 Retreat Dates
Module 1: September 19 & 20
Module 2: November 14 & 15
Module 3: January 23 & 24
Module 4: March 20 & 21
Reading
Our reading list changes from year to year, but below is a list of some of our past books. Fellows read eight books (one per month) during the course of the program, along with some select articles and discuss them during Common Meals.
The Narrow Path by Rich Villodas
Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer
Work: It’s Purpose, Dignity and Transformation by Daniel Doriani
Naming the Animals by Stephen Roach
The Ministry of Ordinary Places by Shannon Martin
How to Know a Person by David Brooks
Generous Justice by Timothy Keller
Rough Sleepers by Tracy Kidder
Teachers
Our teachers are typically local to the Lancaster area where they work and serve in various capacities. Below are some of our past teachers.
Tom Becker
Director of The Row House
Aaron Brown
Executive Pastor at Manheim Brethren in Christ Church
Dr. Justin Harbin
Director of the Center for Teaching & Learning
Dr. Justin Hawkins
Post-Doctoral researcher at Columbia Medical School
Kimberly Ibarra
Nurse Practitioner
Luke LeDuc
Senior Pastor at Wheatland Presbyterian Church
Zachary Northen
State Parole Agent for Pennsylvania
Rev. David Peck
Rector at Saint James Episcopal Church
Dr. Dan Spanjer
School Principal at Veritas Academy
Samuel Spatola
Director of Student Ministries & Outreach at Wheatland Presbyterian Church
Keith Winder
Associate Pastor at Wheatland Presbyterian Church
Kristen Zimmerman
