Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Project Portfolio

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Michael Larson, DMin

Second Advisor

Tracy Cotterell, DMin

Third Advisor

Ken Van Vliet, DMin

Abstract

This doctoral project addresses a common challenge for many Christian women. In spiritual direction, they often express emotional, spiritual, and psychological pain because their voice, vision, and power are limited in their faith communities. Even though these women are deeply devoted to God and their beliefs, this pain can often make it difficult to experience spiritual confidence, discover their calling, and trust their own discernment. The project explores how engaging with the lives of female saints, alongside contemplative and embodied practices, can offer a healing way forward.

Audacious Saints is a twelve-module spiritual formation program that integrates sacred stories, group spiritual direction, and contemplative and embodied practices into a cohesive journey experienced both individually and together with others. Participants study the lives of female saints and leaders from Scripture and Church history to deepen their understanding of life with God. Weekly spiritual direction sessions anchor the program, offering a confidential, prayerful space for shared discernment and support. Daily spiritual practices encourage growth through reflection, movement, and noticing God’s faithful presence in their everyday lives.

Research for this project shows the importance of role models, the healing power of contemplative community, and the meaning of pilgrimage as both a practice and a symbol. Audacious Saints offers a caring, theologically grounded approach that affirms women’s flourishing is central to the gospel and invites participants into greater freedom, trust, courage, and attentiveness to God. The program also provides a replicable model for spiritual directors to support women’s growth through Christ-centered practices that foster both personal healing and community transformation.

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