1. What inspired you to take this course? Were you familiar with Meditations on the Tarot prior to this course?

I heard Cynthia Bourgeault mention this book somewhere, and I was immediately intrigued – what could Tarot possibly have to do with Christianity? I’m fascinated by all the synthesizing and reworking and borrowing and integrating going on among all sorts of different streams – and all of them are making sense! I’m in this class because I’m excited to have Carl as an expert facilitator and to be part of an eclectic, curious, and committed group.

One of the best parts of MOTT is the surprise inclusion of Kabbalah. I come from a Jewish background (although I have been a Christian for 40 years) and have never explored Kabbalah, thinking that it was also “questionable.” Because of MOTT, I’ve gone down the rabbit hole of investigating Jewish mysticism and the Zohar. Real synergy with some of the Cynthia Bourgeault and Sufi wisdom I’ve learned to incorporate. It’s all good and loads of fun to explore. I’m always drawn to stay close to my Christian faith, though – just expanding and integrating everything that’s good, true, and beautiful.

2. I have familiarity with Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina, but not a long history of consistent practice. I’ve done several long intensives with Centering Prayer and have been trying to practice daily for around three years. Currently, I’m part of a weekly group doing Lectio on the Gospel of Thomas. The group wisdom that arises each week is amazing and nigh unto miraculous. I’m a natural extrovert with a deeply introverted side, so I absolutely love doing contemplative practices with a group.

3. My goal is let the teachings of this book deepen my relationship with God and empower me to be of service to others.