Spiritual Directors
Spiritual direction is “help given by one Christian to another which enables that person to pay attention to God’s personal communication to him or her, to respond to this personally communicating God, to grow in intimacy with this God, and to live out the consequences of the relationship.” (William A. Barry and William J. Connolly, The Practice of Spiritual Direction)
Spiritual direction focuses on religious experience. It is concerned with a person’s actual experience of a relationship with God.
A Roman Catholic spiritual director accompanies you in a prayerful, confidential relationship to help you recognize how God is active and moving in your everyday life.
The Role of a Spiritual Director
• Sacred Listener: Acts as a companion who listens deeply and helps you notice the presence of the Holy Spirit.
• Discerner of Spirits: Helps you sort through interior thoughts and feelings to understand God’s will and direction.
• Not an Advisor: Does not act as a therapist, counselor, or problem-solver; the ultimate director is God Himself.
Training and Formation
• Specialized Programs: Undergoes formal training in recognized spiritual direction certificate programs or institutes.
• Fidelity to the Church: Remains deeply rooted in Catholic doctrine, moral teaching, and a personal sacramental life.
• Ongoing Supervision: Regularly meets with a spiritual supervisor to maintain healthy boundaries and faithful guidance.
Accompaniment of Prayer
• Centered on Prayer: Takes place entirely within the context of an ongoing prayer life between you and God.
• Deepening Relationship: Focuses on your actual experiences in prayer, asking how your relationship with God is moving forward.
• Fostering Trust: Encourages you to listen to God with an open heart, helping you grow in faith, hope, and love.