Many individuals seek to
deepen their faith and explore their spirituality through
spiritual direction. This resource, which is available
through spirituality centers, retreat centers, universities and
parishes, can be a valuable asset for growing in one’s own
faith journey.
One way of looking at
spiritual direction offered by The Jesuit Center for
Spirituality is:
“The
practice of reflecting on one’s prayer and speaking of it to
another person of faith is part of a long tradition in the
Christian churches known as “spiritual direction.”
It is neither counseling nor therapy, neither instruction nor
problem solving. Rather, spiritual direction is
conversation wherein one person reviews his or her prayer with
another in order to become more aware of God’s prompting
within. Having a guide in this process helps people to
listen more closely, to discern more carefully, and respond
more freely to the invitation of God in their lives.”
Spiritual Direction is a
spirit-centered relationship in which a trained and experienced
individual assists a person in reflecting on her/his spiritual
journey in the light of Gospel values. It's purpose is to enable
the person to recognize and respond to God's self-communication
in their prayer and in the ordinary happenings of life.
Spiritual Direction is
usually a once a month process in which an individual discerns
God's direction for her/him. This assumes a willingness to
reflect prayerfully and honestly on their faith and to share
their story with another human being.
The ultimate goal of
spiritual direction is to relate more consciously and respond
more fully to the God of one's understanding - who is always
calling us to newness of life.
When choosing a spiritual
director you should include the following:
