BIRTH OF A STORYLOGIAN
(A tale of Documentaries and a Dissertation)
If spiritual formation is "the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others,” then storytelling must be an integral part of helping people include Jesus in their story. The purpose of my dissertation is to help others consider the value the Bible places upon story and the unique power story has in communicating some of God’s most important truths.
Throughout this process of becoming a theological expert on the art of story, I gathered some expert tools along the way: cinema divina, spiritual autobiography, story catching, spiritual direction, and more...
What is Cinema Divina?
Whereas lectio divina is rooted in medieval monasticism and continues to be one of the most valid and universal spiritual exercises, the concept of cinema divina emerged from contemporary monasticism. In 1977 the meaning of lectio expanded from the printed text of God’s word in the Scriptures to finding God in modern media stories.
Let's start with the stats...
My Story
I love talking about Jesus. Not so much talking about myself. So here are six quick things about me and my work. In, out, and everyone makes it out alive.
1). I'm a creative "cattle-prod" who helps people find and fulfill their purpose.
2). I'm a Spiritual Formation/Direction junkie. I love everything about or associated with Transformation.
3). If you read my resume, you would say I have made "some of the dumbest career moves ever, or God has been preparing me for such a time as this." ---I worked in and have degrees in corrections, Criminal Justice, Spiritual Formation, and Theological studies. Currently working on my D.Min.
4.) A few years ago, one of my best friends lost her battle with cancer. I mention it here
because ever since, I love working on projects (films, stage shows, speaking events, books,
etc) that explore complex social issues through people-centered stories.
5.) This is how I sum up my purpose, I help people fall in love with Jesus. Help believers live
their passion. I tell stories and maybe even change the world. Period. Exclamation point.
6). I had to start with "The Bible for Dummies," and now I am writing Dissertations
in pursuit of a Doctorate..Yes indeed, look what the Lord has done!
