Quotes from Program Participants in the first class. This class included clergy from 10 denominations, 20 states and 2 foreign countries.

Bill Gattis, United Methodist: [The Program is] calling me back to my true vocation as a pastor . . . renewing (and recommitting to) daily practices for being available to the friendship of God/Jesus.  [It has] encouraged me to live boldly and assertively in this Presence and to listen/explore ways in which the congregation may be brought into this Availability.

Paul Bailey, Episcopal: Going Deeper.  That was what I signed up for, and that is precisely what has happened over the last year and a half, as both my work and personal spiritual life have been enriched far more than I could have asked or imagined when I applied for the program.

Wayne Day, United Methodist: Shalem's big pay off was that after examining various options for my future, which included a couple of real job offers that five years ago I would have killed for, I found a new vision for my ministry and a better handle on coping with the pressures of a large church.

Dick Little, Lutheran (ELCA): This Shalem program has been a true blessing to me. Although it has been difficult for me since it has caused me to do more spiritual inner work than I've ever done before, it is precisely what I needed and have been seeking. As I come to the conclusion of the program, I feel as though I'm only beginning. These 15 months have opened a door to a whole new realm of life and have indeed taken me "deeper" both personally and professionally. This course will have a life-long impact on me both in my personal faith journey and in my professional growth.

Tammy Estep, United Methodist: I received the envelope with the brochure in it and was going to throw it away. The Spirit told me to take it to my office and open it. It was what I had been yearning for! This has been a gift at just the right time.  Thank you for envisioning it and creating and planning it and birthing it into reality and into my life and ministry and congregation!

Jim Hollister, United Church of Christ: Thank you very much for this wonderful 15 months of my life.  It has nurtured me and excited my passion to stay close to the Spirit's leading through the rest of my ministry.