Spiritual Direction is a one-on-one relationship centered in prayer and conversation, where the directee is given the opportunity to reflect on his or her relationship with God.  It is predicated on the premise that God is always speaking, although we may need help in learning to notice. So, in cooperation with the Holy Spirit, the director acts as a guide and companion, aiding the directee in unmasking the presence of God in both sacred and ordinary moments of life, whether in the past or present.

Although Spiritual Direction has ancient Christian roots, it has not been practiced widely outside the Catholic tradition. However, Protestants are beginning to discover its value in deepening one’s intimacy with Christ.

Through the Direction process, as the directee’s awareness and discernment increase, the directee is encouraged to respond more fully to God’s movements in the quiet stirrings of the human heart, leading to a deeper experience of intimacy, surrender, and spiritual transformation.  Aspects of spiritual transformation include understanding the unique way God has created the directee,  living in alignment with the directee’s True Self, a greater experience of the love of God and loving more deeply in return,  becoming more whole, joining God in God’s purposes, and a growing awareness of one’s motives. Because of the nature of the Spiritual Direction relationship, any Christian desiring to grow in their relationship with God can benefit, whether a new or mature believer.

The director assumes the role of a servant in the Spiritual Direction relationship, a witness to the directee’s spiritual journey, and at times acts as prophet, pastor, or teacher. As the directee shares his sacred stories, the director listens intently to both God and the directee, maintaining a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere where the directee can explore the meanings of their spiritual experiences or seek discernment for a decision. The Director acts as a sounding board, responding with questions, comments, challenges, Scripture, affirmation, teachings, or holy silence, while allowing the directee to hear from God for himself. This allows the directee to notice and clarify her hopes and joys, how God is with her in everything, and discovering God’s grace in all aspects of life. All sessions are conducted in a safe, confidential, and nurturing environment, where the directee is free to think out loud, exploring questions, concerns, doubts, losses, joys, or fears. Throughout the session, prayer plays a central role.

Spiritual Direction typically takes place in hour-long monthly sessions.

If you would like more information on getting started in Spiritual Direction, contact Lane.