Essential Foundation

SESSION ONE

A Course with a Text

In this introductory class, we explore how A Course in Miracles is an actual course in spiritual transformation, structured around a foundational Text that lays out its thought system.

SESSION TWO

The Workbook, Manual, and CE

We continue with an overview of the Workbook for Students, which provides 365 daily lessons to help integrate its teachings into daily life, and the Manual for Teachers, which offers guidance on how to extend its thought system to others. We also go over the unique features of the Compete and Annotated Edition of A Course in Miracles (CE) and how it differs from other versions.

The Leader's Role

SESSION THREE

Being a Devoted Teacher

In this class, we discuss the emphasis the Course places on being a devoted teacher—devoted to your students and their learning—rather than backing away from the teacher role in fear, self-consciousness, and false humility.

SESSION FOUR

Rejecting Specialness

Following on from our last class, we continue with a discussion of the Course’s many cautions against the teacher becoming inflated with a sense of superiority (i.e., specialness). We will talk about refusing to present an inflated image of yourself to draw students to your group.

Message Integrity

SESSION FIVE

Honoring the Course as It Is

A Course in Miracles features 500,000 carefully chosen words that carry a depth of meaning and precision that is often lost through individual interpretation. In this class, you will learn why "fidelity to the page" is the Circle's approach and how to engage with the Course's thought system as it was originally written.

SESSION SIX

Dealing with Misunderstanding

In this class, we explore how to stay true to the actual teachings of A Course in Miracles amidst widespread misconceptions, outside influences, and the ever-growing body of what we call "Course lore" (meaning things that are accepted as true but have no basis in the book itself). You will learn how to navigate group questions on these topics with clarity, kindness, and commitment to the integrity of the Course’s message.

Embodying Love

SESSION SEVEN

Teaching as Miracle Working

Miracles in the Course are primarily defined as "expressions of love", and teaching is one of the most significant ways we can be miracle workers in the world. In this class, you will deepen your understanding of teaching as a sacred function as well as how you can make every interaction a "holy encounter."

SESSION EIGHT

Teaching Through More Than Your Words

A Course in Miracles says that "Teaching is done in many ways: by formal means, by guidance, and above all by example". In this class, we explore how to share the Course’s teachings by embodying the Course's messages of forgiveness, trust, and divine love.

Meeting Structure

SESSION NINE

Preparing for Your Meetings

Leading a study group is about more than just showing up—it’s about deeply engaging with the material so you can create a meaningful learning experience for your group members. In this class, we’ll walk you through key preparation steps, including how to really engage with the sections ahead of time, the importance of asking for guidance, setting a clear goal for each meeting, and getting into the right state of mind so you can truly be of service.

SESSION TEN

How to Format Your Meetings

In this class, we explore how to create a meeting format that goes beyond simply reading and discussing the book to truly helping members internalize the Course’s remarkable thought system. Each section of the Text has a specific journey it wants to take us on, and in this class you'll learn strategies for structuring your meetings to foster deeper understanding and engagement with what the section itself is trying to convey.

Guiding Your Group

SESSION ELEVEN

Using the Leader Guides

As part of this training you receive 73 leader guides that will walk your study group through the Text in 18 months. Each leader guide contains a summary of key themes in the section, important passages to cover, and questions for discussion. In this class, we show you how to use the leader guides in your meetings, and also how to tailor them for your group if you choose.

SESSION TWELVE

Guiding vs. Directing

A Course in Miracles reminds us that, “A guide does not control...but he does direct, leaving the following up to you” (T-1.35.8:7-8). In this class, we explore how to balance these two roles—respecting each member's contributions while also gently keeping the discussion on track.

Group Process

SESSION THIRTEEN

Facilitating Discussion and Q&A

In this class, we cover how to use discussion questions—both from the discussion guides and your own thoughtful prompts—to help participants not only understand A Course in Miracles but also take its ideas in on a personal and practical level. We also dive into the art of active listening and how to facilitate meaningful question-and-answer sessions that guide members toward deeper reflection and insights.

SESSION FOURTEEN

Group Process

In this class, we explore the key aspects of creating an environment that reflects the principles of A Course in Miracles. You'll learn how to practical strategies for setting clear group guidelines (including a template you can use for your group), balancing participation, staying on topic, and handling challenges with patience and kindness.

Group Culture

SESSION FIFTEEN

Group Dynamics

Group dynamics—the personalities, attitudes, and behaviors within your study group—can either support or hinder the learning process. In this class, you'll learn how to navigate challenges such as resistance to the material, monopolizing discussions, and disruptive behavior while maintaining a cooperative and respectful environment.

CLASS SIXTEEN

Summary & Wrap-up

In this class, we revisit key principles of effective study group leadership, including structuring meetings, facilitating discussion, handling group dynamics, and staying true to the Course’s teachings. This is an opportunity to reflect on what you’ve learned, gain clarity on any remaining questions, and finalize ideas for your group.

Building Safety

SESSION SEVENTEEN

Being a Trauma-Informed Leader

Leading a study group with a trauma-informed approach ensures that all participants feel safe, supported, and truly heard. In this class, you’ll learn practical strategies for recognizing trauma responses, responding with sensitivity, how to recognize when a member may need more specialized care, and how to refer them appropriately.

SESSION EIGHTEEN

Creating a Diverse & Inclusive Group

In this class, we explore practical ways to foster an environment where people of different backgrounds, identities, and perspectives can engage with the Course’s teachings in a meaningful way. You’ll learn how to cultivate a culture of openness, address unconscious biases, and navigate sensitive topics with compassion and awareness.