Two-Year Academy #44

The 44th Two-Year Academy for Spiritual Formation 

Camp McDowell • Nauvoo, Alabama 

October 2026 – August 2028 

Discover the Two-Year Academy: A Journey of Deep Spiritual Formation

Join the next Two-Year Academy for Spiritual Formation— a sacred journey of renewal and transformation, grounded in ancient Christian practices and rooted in community. Over two years, you’ll discover rhythms of prayer, learning, rest, and connection that not only renew your spirit but also empower you to live out God’s love through compassion, justice, and reconciliation. 

What is the Two-Year Academy?

The Two-Year Academy is an immersive, cohort-based program designed to cultivate a closer relationship with God, self, others, and creation through a structured rhythm of communal worship, contemplative practices, thoughtful study, restorative rest and play, and deepening conversation. Over the course of two years, participants gather at a retreat center for five-day sessions eight different times (once per quarter), creating a sustaining rhythm of retreat and return that fosters spiritual growth and renewal. 

The 44th Two-Year Academy will be hosted at Camp McDowell in Nauvoo, Alabama, a retreat center renowned for its hospitality, natural beauty, and commitment to caring for creation.  

1. October 26 – 31, 2026 (Monday-Saturday) 
2. January 25 – 30, 2027 (Monday-Saturday) 
3. April 19 – 24, 2027 (Monday-Saturday) 
4. August 9 – 14, 2027 (Monday-Saturday) 
5. November 1 – 6, 2027 (Monday-Saturday) 
6. January 24-29, 2028 (Monday-Saturday) 
7. April 24 – 29, 2028 (Monday-Saturday) 
8. August 7 – 12, 2028 (Monday-Saturday) 

Why Join the Two-Year Academy?

• Deepen Your Spiritual Life: Engage in daily rhythms of prayer, worship, and spiritual practices that anchor your life in God’s loving presence. 

• Learn from Experienced Guides: Study under the guidance of seasoned spiritual leaders, who will help you explore ancient and contemporary theological reflection and practice. 

• Build Lifelong Community: Join a diverse and supportive community of fellow seekers, sharing in a journey that encourages mutual growth and accountability. 

• Find Sacred Rest: Experience the rhythm of retreat as you step away from the busyness of everyday life to rest, reflect, play, and renew your spirit. 

• Embrace Holistic Spirituality: Explore spiritual practices that nurture not just the mind, but the body and soul, leading to a balanced and holistic faith life. 

• Empower Transformative Action: As your spiritual life deepens, you’ll be empowered to embody your faith in the world—engaging in compassionate service, working for justice, and contributing to the healing of your community and the world. 

What to Expect

Participants of the Two-Year Academy will experience: 

• Intentional Spiritual Practices: Daily times of prayer, silence, and contemplation that create space for God to work deeply in your life. 

• Rich Learning Opportunities: Engaging lectures and communal reflection on key themes of Christian spirituality, scripture, and theology. 

• Personal Reflection: Time set aside for journaling, meditation, and personal reflection, allowing you to internalize and apply what you’ve learned. 

• Community Life: Shared meals, worship, and small group sharing that foster deep connections with fellow participants. 

• Spiritual Mentoring: Opportunities to learn from spiritually mature teachers and leaders who will accompany you on your journey, offering guidance and support. 

Program Fees

$8,700  Total tuition, room & board for entire two-year program (fees are spread out over the course of the two years)

$300  acceptance fee (non-refundable) due after applying and being accepted into the program to confirm your spot 

$1,050  due at each of the 8 residential sessions ($550 for room & board + $500 for tuition) 

Program fees do not include books and travel

Application fee (not included in program fees above and non-refundable): $50.00 

Scholarships: Partial scholarships are available, and every effort is made to ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of your spiritual journey. A link to the scholarship application will be provided after being accepted into the program. The deadline for the scholarship application is October 1, 2026, for accepted enrollees. Contact [email protected] if you have questions about the scholarship process. 

Who Should Apply?

The Two-Year Academy is open to all who are serious about and ready to make a strong commitment to their spiritual growth, regardless of where you are on your journey. As an ecumenical ministry, participants from any denomination or no denomination are welcome. Whether you are a pastor, layperson, or simply someone seeking a deeper relationship with God, this program is designed to meet you where you are and lead you into a more authentic and vibrant spiritual life. 

For any questions or additional information, please contact us at [email protected] or 615-340-7233. We look forward to walking this sacred journey with you.

Learn More About the Encouraging Spiritual Leaders Matching Grant Initiative

Many clergy and ministry leaders receive support for continuing education and spiritual formation through churches, conferences, or ministry partners. Learn more about our matching grant initiative and find resources to help advocate within your own ministry context. Explore the press release and media kit for details, downloadable materials, and ways to begin the conversation.

Missed the Info Session?

Watch the recording of “If Not Now, When? A Time of Discernment for Those Interested in the Two-Year Academy” with members of the Academy #44 Leadership Team and explore whether this sacred journey is right for you.

For any questions or additional information, please contact us at [email protected] or 615-340-7233. We look forward to walking this sacred journey with you.nying you as you prayerfully consider attending the Two-Year Academy.