Barb McRae, MDiv info@birdnestspirit.com 734-678-5382
Childhood Influences
Since I was a child, I've been attracted to the spiritual life. I grew up Roman Catholic and played mass in my backyard with smushed Wonder Bread for communion. I loved the ritual and meditative practices and remember fondly the May Crowning of Mary and the Good Friday Veneration. My best friend in high school invited me to visit her aunt who was a sister in charge of a retreat center. There I learned that nuns drink alcohol in their off hours and there is value in silence. Through all these experiences, and more, I also took in the sacredness of life and the mystery of what was in me and around me that worked for good in the world.
Adult Journey
As an adult, like everyone else, I went through hard times and experienced the limits of others and of myself. I turned to the writings and practices of my faith tradition and found hope and strength to push through. I've also found great value in finding support through psychotherapy, spiritual direction and small reflection groups. I found community in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and ended up in seminary. That was more than 20 years ago. I've gained so much from the relationships I've been given through my work as a minister. I have carried away many stories from that time. Because I'm a good listener, I've been honored by people sharing their deep experiences at times of crisis and transition.
Perspective on Religion
I have also experienced the drastic changes in the US Christian Church that have occurred since my childhood. Many churches, in all Christian denominations, are losing members. Many factors have led to this decline. One factor that causes me grief is the lack of discernment by church leadership and participants about post-modern culture. Some congregations lead a communal life that is sadly outmoded for the 21st century seeker. The 'nones', those without any church affiliation, are growing rapidly. The 'nones' are not apathetic to the spiritual life. Quite the contrary. They just don't find meaningful ways to connect their views, questions, concerns, needs, desires to the dogma and practices of traditional churches.
Spiritual Direction Practice
As a result, I have studied for a Certificate in Spiritual Direction in order to meet people where they are. I enjoy working with women's groups, mothers and children, and adults who want to deepen their connection to 'God' (in whatever name they choose to call the divine). In my work, I do not represent any denomination or ecclesiastical board. I work within the accountability of supervision with peers and a senior certified spiritual director. I practice Christian spirituality and I have respect for the unique path that each person takes in relationship with the mystery of life. I am married, the parent of a beautiful teenager, and share space with two cats.
Childhood Influences
Since I was a child, I've been attracted to the spiritual life. I grew up Roman Catholic and played mass in my backyard with smushed Wonder Bread for communion. I loved the ritual and meditative practices and remember fondly the May Crowning of Mary and the Good Friday Veneration. My best friend in high school invited me to visit her aunt who was a sister in charge of a retreat center. There I learned that nuns drink alcohol in their off hours and there is value in silence. Through all these experiences, and more, I also took in the sacredness of life and the mystery of what was in me and around me that worked for good in the world.
Adult Journey
As an adult, like everyone else, I went through hard times and experienced the limits of others and of myself. I turned to the writings and practices of my faith tradition and found hope and strength to push through. I've also found great value in finding support through psychotherapy, spiritual direction and small reflection groups. I found community in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and ended up in seminary. That was more than 20 years ago. I've gained so much from the relationships I've been given through my work as a minister. I have carried away many stories from that time. Because I'm a good listener, I've been honored by people sharing their deep experiences at times of crisis and transition.
Perspective on Religion
I have also experienced the drastic changes in the US Christian Church that have occurred since my childhood. Many churches, in all Christian denominations, are losing members. Many factors have led to this decline. One factor that causes me grief is the lack of discernment by church leadership and participants about post-modern culture. Some congregations lead a communal life that is sadly outmoded for the 21st century seeker. The 'nones', those without any church affiliation, are growing rapidly. The 'nones' are not apathetic to the spiritual life. Quite the contrary. They just don't find meaningful ways to connect their views, questions, concerns, needs, desires to the dogma and practices of traditional churches.
Spiritual Direction Practice
As a result, I have studied for a Certificate in Spiritual Direction in order to meet people where they are. I enjoy working with women's groups, mothers and children, and adults who want to deepen their connection to 'God' (in whatever name they choose to call the divine). In my work, I do not represent any denomination or ecclesiastical board. I work within the accountability of supervision with peers and a senior certified spiritual director. I practice Christian spirituality and I have respect for the unique path that each person takes in relationship with the mystery of life. I am married, the parent of a beautiful teenager, and share space with two cats.
Style
This work is not affiliated with a particular church nor is it meant to substitute for ongoing spiritual community. I invite people to explore their faith, in whatever form it takes, in a safe space where they can be heard and supported.
Credentials
Ordained Presbyterian Minister
Member of Presbytery of Detroit
Member of Spiritual Directors International
Education
University of Michigan Bachelor of Science-Nursing
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Master of Divinity
Samaritan Counseling Center Pastoral Care Specialist Certificate
Dominican Center for Religious Studies Spiritual Direction Certificate
Work
Registered Nurse 8 years
Ordained Minister 17 years
Spiritual Director 3 years
Recordings
http://www.onbeing.org/program/spirituality-parenting/feature/eleven-tales-parenting/860
This work is not affiliated with a particular church nor is it meant to substitute for ongoing spiritual community. I invite people to explore their faith, in whatever form it takes, in a safe space where they can be heard and supported.
Credentials
Ordained Presbyterian Minister
Member of Presbytery of Detroit
Member of Spiritual Directors International
Education
University of Michigan Bachelor of Science-Nursing
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Master of Divinity
Samaritan Counseling Center Pastoral Care Specialist Certificate
Dominican Center for Religious Studies Spiritual Direction Certificate
Work
Registered Nurse 8 years
Ordained Minister 17 years
Spiritual Director 3 years
Recordings
http://www.onbeing.org/program/spirituality-parenting/feature/eleven-tales-parenting/860