THE WAY OF COUNCIL
A two-day immersive workshop in remembering our shared humanity through listening and speaking from the heart
Friday 24 & Saturday 25 April, 2026
Avila Centre, Dublin 4
⭕ About the gathering
Council
is an ancient and universal practice of gathering in circle—of slowing down to speak and listen from the heart. We come together to bear witness, one voice at a time, sharing stories rather than opinions, and listening without judgment.
Through stories of love and loss, courage and change, we begin to recognise how much we share beneath our differences.
The Way of Council invites us to:
🌿Listen deeply and speak authentically
🌿Remember the wisdom that lives between us
🌿Create space where hierarchy softens and community strengthens
🌿Cultivate compassion, resilience, and belonging
🌕Council Training 1/Introduction to the Way of Council
This foundational training offers a grounding in both the
spirit
and
structure
of Council.
Participants explore the history, principles, and forms of the practice, and learn ways to bring Council into families, workplaces, and communities.
Through experiential learning and shared reflection, you’ll develop confidence in facilitating circles that foster presence, connection, and authentic communication.
Council Training 1 welcomes:
teachers, artists, activists, facilitators, caregivers, chaplains, therapists and anyone drawn to nurture deeper listening in their lives.
👥 Guides
Dr. Ann Seide
— Senior Council Trainer and board-certified Internist and Integrative Medicine Physician
Together they bring decades of experience in facilitating Council practice across diverse cultures and contexts.
💬
Voices from previous participants
“A wonderful training that opened the heart. I can see how Council circles could be transformational in people’s lives.”
“A rich blend of theory, experiential learning and humour that brought everyone together.”
“Beautifully nourishing—professionally and personally. The trainers are exceptionally skilled and warm in their approach.”
🌳Practical Details
Fee:
€350
Early Bird: €300 if paid by
1 February 2026
This rate is also available for previous Council workshop participants
Supported Places: Limited number at €250 — please email to enquire
The fee includes a
5% contribution to Wholehearted Education (a sister project of showing up), supporting ongoing Council practice and training opportunities
Deposit:
€100 secures your place; balance due by 17 April 2026
Attendance: Full participation both days is required
Time: tbc
💡To register or ask questions:
Phone/text
Niamh Barrett: 086 2857212 or
Josephine Lynch: 087 2372130
Email Niamh at wholeheartededucation@protonmail.com
