Tim McCowan is Senior Lecturer in Spirituality at Whitley College, an accredited Spiritual Director, Supervisor and Co-ordinator of Reconciliation at the WellSpring Centre. He is also adjunct Professor of Spiritual Formation at the Asian Theological Seminary in the Philippines.

His Doctor of Ministry (CTU, Chicago, 2001) examined the hallmarks of a spirituality that sustains Christian workers among the urban poor in Asia. His Doctor of Philosophy (ACU, Melbourne, 2013) investigated the effectiveness of the Building Bridges in Schools Program (founded by him in 2004), in promoting trust, social cohesion and cooperation across religious and cultural differences.

Tim’s research focuses largely on the interfaces between contemplative spirituality, formational practices and social engagement. In particular, the richness of the contemplative tradition of spirituality is investigated for its potential in fostering nonviolent but effective actions for social justice, reconciliation, interfaith dialogue and the integrity of all creation, plus open new interpretations of sacred texts including the Bible. He also researches new and emerging Qualitative Research Methods that assist in identifying and interpreting these kinds of phenomena.

Tim currently teaches units in:

· The Inner Life of a Disciple of Christ;

· Action and Contemplation: the art of Christian engagement;

· The Art of Reconciliation;

· Discernment: listening to God in life and ministry;

· Mapping the soul with the Enneagram;

· Biblical Spirituality.

Tim is an active member of a local Baptist community, an accredited BaptCare volunteer supporting people seeking asylum, accompanies people in spiritual direction, and leads regular silent retreats through the WellSpring Centre.

University Appointments

Wellspring Lecturer (Whitley College)

External Affiliations

• The WellSpring Centre (Coordinator of Reconciliation)