Spiritual direction describes the ancient process of accompanying people in their spiritual journey toward freedom and peace. It is a ministry that supports the holy work of spiritual formation, and helps people connect with their sacred stories in their everyday living.
(SDIworld.org, adapted)

That’s the formal definition. Let’s see if I can explain a bit further. Spiritual direction might date back to the beginning when our unbroken community with God provided all the direction needed. We find glimpses of it throughout the scriptures. God’s children seeking a deeper knowing of God, and discovering those who will listen and respond along the way. Friends like David and Jonathan. Family like Ruth and Naomi. Leaders like the kings and prophets.

I would say Jesus is the ultimate spiritual director.

Remember the time he sat at the well and listened to the woman share her story. Then he asked her questions that revealed something deeper.

Or when Jesus began to walk with the disciples on the road to Emmaus. He listened and asked questions. Sat down with them to share a meal, and in the breaking of bread eyes were opened and faith grew.

That’s the point of spiritual direction for me.

Growth.

Growing in our relationship with God, ourselves, and others.

A spiritual director is someone who comes alongside us on the spiritual journey. They have developed and practiced the gift of listening. Listening to those they accompany and to God. Another thing they’ve learned is how to pay close attention. Noticing emotions and patterns and nudges from Spirit. Sometimes it comes in the form of a question while other times silence is all that is needed. Spiritual directors understand we don’t simply arrive with faith. Faith grows… and forms. Some call it spiritual formation.

My own experience of spiritual direction began when I was directing children’s ministry in the local church. Right in the middle of a very difficult season, I found I needed a safe place to share my story. Someone who would listen without any personal connection to my circumstance. A companion to walk with me as I wrestled through my own hurt and struggle to find God in it all.

Turns out this spiritual practice took me much deeper and farther than getting through that rough season. After the hard season passed, I kept going and growing. When God opened the door for me to enter a training program for spiritual direction, I stepped through it.

And so here I am.

Maybe you find yourself in a hard season and need someone to listen. Perhaps you have this desire to grow closer to God and discover who you are created to be. It might simply be curiosity about the practice of spiritual direction that’s fueling you to take another step.

However you’ve come, I am happy to share more. Send me an email and let’s get to know each other better. I’m confident God will lead us step by step.

let’s connect