When reflecting on what it means to be Spirit-led, many across the United Methodist connection are seeking more than direction. They are seeking depth. For some, it’s a longing that arises during life transitions; for others, it emerges amid the wear of ministry or when faith feels routine.
A common question often surfaces: How do we cultivate lives shaped, sustained and transformed by the Spirit…not just guided by it?
One meaningful response comes through The Academy for Spiritual Formation, a ministry of The Upper Room. While not widely known, the Academy has been quietly forming spiritually grounded leaders, both lay and clergy persons, since 1983. Its rhythm is simple and intentional: Slow down, listen deeply and root yourself in practices that nurture communion with God and others.
Be a part of the Academy for Spiritual Formation
A rhythm of formation
I entered The Academy for Spiritual Formation in 1997, searching for something I couldn’t quite name. What I found was a rhythm of formation that allowed the Spirit to work not only on the surface of my questions and concerns, but also deep within the foundations of my soul. Because of Academy, I have a greater sense of my belovedness to God and others, the tools and the passion to follow God’s call wherever it might lead, and a desire to make a difference in this world.
For the past 20 years, I’ve served as a retreat leader for The Academy. Each cohort is unique, but all share something deeply sacred. People don’t come for credentials or accolades. As St. Augustine said, they come “to find our rest in Thee.”
The communities formed in these settings stay with me, and saying goodbye at the close of each two-year journey is always tearful. Authentic, spiritual community, marked by grace and deep presence, is rare and powerful.
Slow down, listen and connect
The Academy’s format is structured, yet spacious. Participants meet quarterly over two years, for a total of eight sessions. The first year focuses on personal spiritual growth, while the second turns outward to explore how spiritual formation influences leadership, justice and ministry. Each session includes worship, silence, theological reflection and community life.
In addition to the Two-Year Academy, shorter 3- to 5-day Academies are held at retreat centers around the world. Seen above is the leadership team for the Four-Day Academy in Alabama, taking place in August 2025. This is an historic gathering co-sponsored by both the AME Church and The United Methodist Church. Pictured are: Kevin Carter, Celeste Eubanks, the Rev. Emily Penfield, the Rev. Dr. Amy Steele, the Rev. Dr. Agnes Lover, Kathy Norberg, the Rev. Marie Smith and Pat Luna. Not pictured: the Rev. Ashley Davis. Photo courtesy of Joscie Cutchens.
Unlike many experiences, The Academy is not about productivity. It is about presence. Participants step away from busyness into a sacred rhythm that allows for listening – to God, to themselves and to others. Worship follows the daily office, Holy Communion is celebrated each evening, and silence is woven throughout as a space of practice, not pause.
Teaching is central, but it’s not a lecture-based model. We are graced with wise and gifted faculty – authors, theologians and spiritual leaders. What makes the experience unique is how these teachers engage. At typical events, faculty remain at a distance, but at The Academy, they share meals, prayers and life with us. The learning becomes embodied and relational.
Each session includes small covenant groups, trusted circles for prayer and reflection. There’s no pressure to fix or perform. What you’ll find is a commitment to show up, speak honestly and let the Spirit do the slow work of transformation. These small groups often become sacred spaces where people feel seen and safe.
Find balance
For those in ministry or leadership, the temptation is to prioritize outward activity over inward depth. The Academy addresses this tension by insisting on both. Its theology is rooted in a Trinitarian vision: Blessed by the Creator, companioned by Christ and open to the Spirit’s transforming power. It honors the Wesleyan tradition while also holding space for diverse Christian expressions and ecumenical conversation.
This holistic approach invites participants to live into both inner and outer peace, personal holiness and social justice. It offers practices that help ground our lives, not in achievement, but in presence, prayer and discernment.
Step away into sacred space
In a time when faith leaders and communities often feel overwhelmed, The Academy offers a model for sustainable, Spirit-led living – marked not by urgency, but by attentiveness. The Academy does not promise quick answers. What it offers is sacred space to ask better questions. It provides rest, discernment and practices that continue shaping lives long after the program ends.
For those seeking to live more deeply into a Spirit-led life, whether in the pulpit, the pew, the classroom or the community, The Academy is a trusted companion for the journey.
Pat Luna, a layperson at Point Washington United Methodist Church in the Alabama-West Florida Conference and a General Conference Delegate, has served The UMC at every level, including on the General Board of Church and Society. She has led the Two-Year Academy for Spiritual Formation for 20 years and is the Theologian for Academy #43.
This story was published on June 2, 2025. The contact is Laura Buchanan.
