“(Spiritual direction) is the pastoral work that is historically termed the cure (or care) of souls…The cure of souls, then, is the Scripture-directed, prayer-shaped care that is devoted to persons singly or in groups…(it) is cultivated awareness that God has already seized the initiative. God has been working diligently, redemptively, and strategically before I appeared on the scene, before I was aware there was something here for me to do.” Eugene Peterson
FAQs
What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual Direction is the practice of being with people as they attempt to deepen their relationship with God by noticing the ways He is moving in the ordinary, day-to-dayness of our lives.
Why might I need a Spiritual Director and How Might They Help Me?
There are lots of reasons you might need and benefit from having a spiritual director. In general, a spiritual director will help you deepen your relationship with God/the Divine. You might want to grow in your awareness of self and God and need someone to accompany you in this. Maybe you enjoy your church/faith community but feel like you want to grow deeper and you’re not quite sure where to start – a spiritual director might be a great fit.
The goal of Spiritual Direction is to grow deeper in your relationship with God and there are many ways this practice can help. Spiritual Direction can help you listen more deeply. It is a contemplative and sacred space that invites growth. Personally, spiritual direction has helped me learn more about myself, particularly the things that trigger desolation [moving away from Love/God], and helped me better respond in those moments. I’ve noticed an increase of faith, hope, love, and compassion in my life. It has also helped me identify my deepest desires, align my actions with my desires and values, and make decisions from a centered place. It could help you make decisions, have healthier relationships, co-create with God, etc.
How is Spiritual Direction different from Counseling?
While Spiritual Direction overlaps with counseling, it is different in some key ways. Spiritual Directors are not trained to work with your personal problems from a goal-oriented or “fixing” mode. While the conversation will likely include emotions, the focus is on your spiritual life – your relationship with God and the movement of the Holy Spirit in your life.
What is a Spiritual Direction session like?
A spiritual direction session is a sacred conversation that invites you to listen and respond to the ways God is active in your life. The conversation will likely be slower-paced than normal conversation and may include pauses or periods of silence. [It’s amazing how much we can notice in stillness! And our busy lives don’t often allow for that.] The topic is determined by you, the spiritual directee, but if you don’t know what you want to talk about, the director can help with a prompt. As a director, I ask questions and make observations. I might also read something and/or pray for you during our time together.
How frequently do you meet with a Spiritual Director and how long does a Spiritual Direction relationship last?
We generally meet once a month for an hour. Meeting monthly allows the directee to soak in the learnings/observations from the session without rushing to the next thing. Going longer than a month between sessions can feel like we have a lot to catch up on in a session.
A Spiritual Direction relationship generally lasts at least six months and can last years. (I’ve been meeting with my Director for almost four years and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.) Each relationship is unique and a great Spiritual Director will invite feedback and encourage conversation about the length of the relationship.
What does it look like in terms of time spent with you and homework?
I meet with directees on a monthly basis for one hour. I don’t usually give homework. Any “work” outside of our time together would be chosen by the directee. Occasionally I offer a suggestion or resource that might be helpful.
Where Can I Find a Spiritual Director and How Much Does it Cost?
Most spiritual directors charge anywhere from $25-80 per session. Currently, I charge $35 per session.
Who is it for? Is it Just for Christians?
Spiritual Direction is for anyone who wants to explore and grow in their relationship with God. It is a safe and sacred space to bring questions, emotions, thoughts, dreams, hopes, and fears. I am grateful and honored to sit with directees from any tradition. Personally, I have a Christocentric theology.