Growing Closer to God
By Fr. Jeffrey Kirby · Published by TAN Books
Overview
Every Christian is called to holiness—but what does that actually look like in daily life? Growing Closer to God provides a practical and accessible introduction to the spiritual life, helping students understand how to cultivate a deeper relationship with God through prayer, virtue, and faithful discipleship.
Guided by Fr. Jeffrey Kirby, this course explores the essential principles of Christian spirituality and offers practical tools for living the Faith more intentionally. Drawing heavily from Sacred Scripture and the teachings of the Church, Fr. Kirby examines the stages of spiritual growth, the importance of prayer, the role of the sacraments, and the universal call to holiness that applies to every baptized Christian.
Whether you are new to the spiritual life or seeking to deepen an already established prayer routine, this course provides a clear roadmap for spiritual growth. Students learn how to recognize God's presence throughout the day, persevere through times of spiritual dryness, and develop habits that foster ongoing conversion and intimacy with Christ.
What This Course Offers:
- Introduction to the Spiritual Life: Learn the foundational principles of prayer, holiness, and discipleship.
- Practical Prayer Guidance: Develop habits that foster a consistent and fruitful prayer life.
- Biblical Formation: Study key passages of Scripture that illuminate the Christian journey.
- Structured Homeschool Curriculum: Includes streaming video lectures and a comprehensive course guide.
- Answer the Call to Holiness: Discover that sanctity is not reserved for priests and religious but is the vocation of every Christian.
- Build a Rule of Prayer: Learn practical practices such as morning offerings, evening prayers, and the Liturgy of the Hours.
- Understand Spiritual Growth: Explore the different stages of the spiritual life and how God works through both joy and suffering.
- Deepen Eucharistic Devotion: Recognize the central role of Christ's presence in the sacraments.
- Develop Interior Silence: Learn the importance of entering the "desert" to encounter God more deeply.
From Sacred Scripture
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”
— James 4:8
Intended Audience
This course is ideal for homeschool families, parish study groups, adult learners, catechists, and anyone seeking practical guidance for developing a deeper spiritual life.
It is especially valuable for those who desire a structured introduction to Catholic spirituality and want practical tools for growing closer to Christ in everyday life.
FAQs
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for Christians at every stage of spiritual development, from beginners seeking a foundation in prayer to experienced believers looking to deepen their relationship with God.
What prayer practices are discussed?
Students are introduced to practical spiritual disciplines including morning offerings, evening prayers, the Liturgy of the Hours, and methods for sanctifying daily activities.
What is included in the Homeschooling Set?
The Homeschooling Set includes streaming video lectures and a Course Guide featuring lesson plans, quizzes, lecture notes, a final essay, and answer keys.
Does the course address spiritual struggles?
Yes. Fr. Kirby discusses the challenges of prayer, spiritual dryness, conversion, perseverance, and the role of suffering in the Christian life.
Key Themes
- Prayer: Building a daily relationship with God through consistent spiritual practices.
- Holiness: Embracing the universal call to sanctity.
- Spiritual Growth: Understanding the stages of the Christian journey.
- Scripture and Discipleship: Learning from the example and teachings of Christ.
- Interior Conversion: Developing a life centered on grace, virtue, and communion with God.
Lecture Sample
Meet Your Professor
- Author:
- Fr. Jeffrey Kirby, STD
- Imprint:
- TAN Courses
- Publication Date:
- 12/17/2014
- Wistia Name:
- CCI: The Spiritual Life
- Wistia Hash:
- hgokmpkedt
- Wistia Url:
- https://www.tanbooks.com/cci-the-spiritual-life/