Author: Maria McGuire
I graduated from Loyola University, New Orleans with a Master’s Degree in Theology/Religious Education. I hold a Spiritual Direction Certificate from Mercy Center, Burlingame. With a BS in Science and trained in the Jesuit educational approach, I value both the academic and spiritual aspects of faith issues. My theological interests are multi-faceted. Much of my focus centers upon the power of metaphor to address common human truths regardless of culture, faith perspective or gender. In particular, I contemplate Scripture with an eye towards Midrash: the stories and metaphor therein are the stories of each human being in every generation. Additionally, metaphor speaks to us through songs, movies, literature and the culture around us. I am interested in the dialogue and intersection between masculine and feminine perspectives on spirituality, believing both contribute to a balanced faith vision. I am attentive to those who experience marginalization in society and am interested in what lies at the threshold of liminality. My work in Spiritual Direction supports my understanding of reverence for the individual journey and giftedness of all people. It is my belief that theology ought to include a “so what” factor, with an eye towards servicing the well-being, growth and understanding of humanity. I am currently a Chaplain with Hospice. I enjoy leading retreats and workshops, offering Spiritual Direction, and spiritual readings. I have a keen interest and love for writing. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends in the garden, at sports events, on hiking trails, in the gym and at home.