The School of Mercy and Justice (SMJ) is a one-year certificate program particularly for those who desire to cultivate a deep, vibrant interior life with God and engage effectively and healthily in the practical work of mercy and justice in the world. It’s spiritual formation for those who long to embody a contemplative posture while engaging in an active life with those on the margins of society.

Through readings, activities, receiving spiritual direction, various contemplative practices, and written reflections, students journey together in becoming “contemplatives in action.”

A few distinctives of the school are:

  • The deep level of friendship and community created, given the size of cohorts (typically between 8-12 people). We learn to share vulnerably with one another and, in so doing, grow in real connection and love for one another.
  • Its modular format. We meet five times for a total of ten days over the course of nine months. This allows you to maintain your existing rhythms of work and life whilst being a student in the school. 

Cost and Syllabus

  • Tuition is USD $1,500 (excluding books and payments to a personal spiritual director). This includes:
    • A USD $50 non-refundable application fee
    • Once accepted, a USD $250 deposit that secures your place in the school
    • Paying the remaining balance of USD $1200 in full before the program starts or in monthly installments (~USD $133) during the school year
  • Student Syllabus (PDF)

Dates

Cleveland, Ohio (8:30 am – 4:30 pm EST, Saturday/Sunday)
Marisa Lapish

  • September 19-20, 2026
  • November 14-15, 2026
  • January 9-10, 2027
  • March 13-14, 2027
  • May 15-16, 2027

Burton, Ohio (8:30 am – 4:30 pm EST, Saturday/Sunday)
Marion Ware

  • October 2–3, 2026
  • December 4–5, 2026
  • February 5–6, 2027
  • April 2–3, 2027
  • June 4–5, 2027

Application

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

How did you hear about the School of Mercy and Justice? (required)