What is Spiritual Direction?
Traditional Spiritual Direction has a long history in the Christian Church, dating back to the 4th century early Christian monastics known as the desert fathers and mothers. It is a sacred spiritual relationship between a director and one seeking a deeper intimacy with God. Relying on the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, the two meet together to discuss spiritual issues and discern together ways of becoming more receptive to grace, more intentional in prayer, more devout in spiritual discipline and more open to see and to comprehend the presence of God both within themselves and throughout their world.
Who might need a Spiritual Director?
One who feels led to experience God in a deeper way than they have previously known.
One who is encountering difficulty in prayer, desires a more abiding prayer life, or wants to explore traditional methods of active or contemplative prayer.
One who has had a spiritual experience and wishes to understand and respond to more fully.
One who desires a spiritual director to listen deeply to his or her needs, desires and fears.
One who is at a crossroads in his or her spiritual journey seeking ways to clarify and discern where they are being nudged.
One who is facing issues of illness or loss and desires a full appreciation of the elements of grief and surrender.
One who is seeking a more balanced, more contemplative life in Christ.
What Can I expect from a Spiritual Director?
Contemporary Spiritual Direction presumes that God communicates through ordinary human experience, and within this experience we find God’s urgings, invitations, confirmations and love. A good director offers spiritual guidance in life’s journey with God–offering reflective questions, inspiring insight, and earnest discernment in a spirit of love, active listening and prayerfulness.
How often do I meet with a Spiritual Director?
Monthly meetings of about an hour are suggested.
Is there a fee?
It is customary to give a donation to your spiritual director at the end of each session. You and your director will discuss the donation amount at your initial interview. (Please do not let an inability to pay the suggested donation keep you from attending regular sessions.)
If I am interested in Spiritual Direction, what’s the first step?
Contact us by phone at (317) 606-0333 or by email at [email protected].
Let us know that you are interested in talking to someone about Spiritual Direction.