What is Spiritual Direction?

 

Spiritual direction is a process of accompanying people as they search to discover their authentic self and personal mission by growing closer to God in prayer. People are motivated to seek spiritual direction for a variety of reasons, including to identify and trust their own experiences of God; to integrate spirituality into their daily life; and to discern and make difficult choices. People are encouraged to reflect deeply on the experiences of their daily life. Gradually, they begin to recognize God’s presence and grace in their life. Spiritual direction is really not about being directed. Rather, it is very much about being encouraged to draw closer to God who seeks our friendship wherever we may be.

 

How does it work?

 

The journey takes place in the context of confidential one-on-one or group sessions with your spiritual director. We propose only spiritual directors who have suitable training and formation and are experienced. They continue tending the spiritual life by engaging in ongoing education, confidential supervision, and also meeting regularly with a spiritual director. You and your spiritual director will agree on a convenient location and time for meeting, usually once a month for an hour. Some spiritual directors request a fee, some receive your freewill donation, and others offer their time with no expectation of anything in return. The first session is typically to establish a foundation. After one or two sessions, both parties have the opportunity to evaluate the relationship. Whether your relationship with the spiritual director continues for many years or for only a short period of time, it is very important to be comfortable with the spiritual director you choose. What is shared between you is held in confidence.

If you feel that you would benefit from spiritual direction, contact us at [email protected].

Richard Boileau holds a university certificate in spiritual direction from Collège Universitaire Domincain and is a member of Spiritual Directors International.

 

Resources

 

“Sub-personalities and Authenticity: A Model of Intervention in Spiritual Direction” The Way – A Review of Christian Spirituality (January 2009) pp 26-36.

“The Great Communicator of Assisi: How Francis Transmitted his Spiritual and Religious Insights” The Cord – A Franciscan Spiritual Review (April-June 2009) pp 131-153.

“Spiritual Transformation through Transcending Loss” Presence – An International Journal of Spiritual Direction. September 2010.

“Consolation of Mind and Heart: The Search for Meaning and Happiness” The Way – A Review of Christian Spirituality (October 2010) pp 17-30.

“Dealing with Loss: Balthasar’s Three Forms of Abandonment” The Way – A Review of Christian Spirituality (April 2012) pp 67-82.

“The Fragmented Self at Prayer” Human Development Magazine (Summer 2012), pp11-17.

“Falling with Grace to Grace” Human Development Magazine (To be published in 2013)