The Program
Components of Study
There are five components of study within the Seminary Program:
curriculum, spiritual practice, community service, world religions, and ministerial duties.
Completion of all five components is required to meet the requirements for graduation / ordination.
1. Curriculum
The Path of the Crow is unique in that it offers both concrete instruction and a personal spiritual guide to accompany you on the path from beginning to end. The core curriculum, The Path of the Crow, written by Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt, offers 30 thoughtfully designed modules which are structured to lead you on a deep, inner journey. As you travel the path, your study and reflections will detail how to navigate your inner sanctuary and create the conditions for mystical unity with God.
These teachings blend practical instruction with deep inner exploration, guiding participants into their own sacred interior landscape and toward lived spiritual integration.
2. Spiritual Practice:
Participants commit to a consistent spiritual practice (ideally daily, no fewer than five days per week). A reflective journal—written, artistic, or creative—documents insights, experiences, and personal growth along the way. Participants must also keep a daily or weekly journal recording: the practice, when practices are done, and a description of the experience that has personal meaning. Descriptions may include artwork, poetry, or other expressive ways to describe and document the practices. This component is required to become ordained.
3. Community Service
Each participant engages in service aligned with their passions and life circumstances. Reflection on the inner experience of service is as important as the outer action itself, recognizing service as a path of transformation.
Participants are asked to begin conceptualizing just what that service might be and to write a synopsis or description early in the program. At the completion of the Community Service component, participants will write a 4-6 page paper documenting the service and, most importantly, what was observed internally in the act of service.
4. World Religions
Through independent study and reflection, participants explore the world’s major spiritual traditions—examining their teachings, practices, and perspectives on the Sacred—while discerning where they resonate, where they are challenged, and what wisdom informs their own path.
Eight papers on the world's major faith traditions are required. Participants conduct their own research and submit a 4-6 page paper that includes the following: basic facts; a summary of the fundamental tenets, sacred texts, major rituals and holidays; the faith tradition's view of God or a Supreme Being; discuss how the faith tradition speaks to you. Where do you resonate? Where are you challenged or, perhaps, disagree?; What might you take from the faith tradition that would most inform your present day experience?
5. Ministerial Duties
Training includes creating Sacred Space - Worship Services, Rituals and Spiritual Study Circles; Creating and Officiating Weddings; Creating and Overseeing Memorial Services and Grave Site Ceremonies; Creating Baby Naming and Blessing Ceremonies
