Facilitators: Prof Richard Roberts and Dr MaryCatherine Burgess.
Venue: The University of Edinburgh Chaplaincy Centre, 1 Bristo Square, Edinburgh.
Time: 9.30am for 10am-4pm. Lunch: 1pm-2pm.
Event Description: Today the word ‘ritual’ is often used and understood in a pejorative way; it is thought to imply blind repetition and the control or manipulation of a passive majority by a hierarchy bent upon the preservation of its power, wealth and privilege. Moreover, in modernity the ritual function has been suppressed or migrated from its earlier roles and place in human life. In this day workshop we shall approach ritual and the process of ritualisation from a standpoint that incorporates what we represent as a democratic ‘right to ritual’ that is a natural part of life. Such a ‘right’ does not, however, excuse us from clear and informed thinking about ritual, or from the acquisition of competence in its enactment – especially when working with others. In the course of the day we shall together discuss these issues; reflect upon how we already incorporate ritual; identify our individual needs for healing; create and enact simple healing rituals; and close with a group ritual of healing for ourselves and all life on the planet. Thus conceived, the ritual process is creative and open-ended rather than prescriptive. Correspondingly, you should come with a readiness for the unexpected and with an open heart.

MaryCatherine Burgess has planned, facilitated, and co-created rituals of healing within spirituality retreats, healing arts events, women’s groups, personal growth workshops, staff development days, and Shamanic healing sessions. A Shamanic practitioner, licensed professional counsellor, and a practitioner-applicant-for-trainer in psychodrama and sociometry, MaryCatherine has worked in organisational development and quality integration at a major US railroad, earned a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, and currently works part-time as Intern Chaplain at Edinburgh University.

Richard Roberts has held the Chairs in Divinity and Religious Studies at the Universities of St Andrews and Lancaster, respectively, and he currently teaches part-time at the University of Stirling where he is now Honorary Professor of Religious Studies. Richard has taught an experiential postgraduate Masters course in ritual and spirituality at Lancaster, and has also facilitated ritual at the Lancaster University Management School and the Centre for Leadership Studies at the University of Exeter. He has trained in breathwork with Peggy Dylan and in sound healing with Chris James.
Cost: £20/£15 (Concessions). For a Registration Form:
Contact: Neill Walker, njwalk5300@hotmail.co.uk, 0131 331 4469.