What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual Direction is a relational process between a seeker and a Spiritual Director, aimed at nurturing the seeker’s spiritual growth and deepening their relationship with God. It involves attentive listening, open dialogue, and reflective guidance, creating a safe space for exploration of one's inner life, faith journey, and spiritual experiences.
In Spiritual Direction, the focus is not solely on problem-solving but on understanding one's experiences and feelings within a broader spiritual context. The director does not provide answers but helps the seeker discern their path, offering support in recognizing and responding to spiritual movements and invitations. Spiritual Direction is not mentoring, moral guidance, or accountability. It is not mystical or New Age nor is it counseling, therapy, or a Bible study.
Ultimately, Spiritual Direction serves as a holy space where individuals can seek clarity, nurture their spirituality, and develop a more profound understanding of their life experiences through a spiritual lens.
Is Spiritual Direction new?
The practice of seeking guidance on one's spiritual journey has been around for centuries. Early examples can be found in various religious traditions, such as the mentorship relationships in early Christian monasticism. In recent years, Spiritual Direction has seen a resurgence and broadening its practice, becoming more accessible and varied in its approach. It’s not limited to any single religious tradition and can be found in various forms across different faiths and spiritual practices today. Throughout its history, Spiritual Direction has adapted to changing contexts and needs, reflecting its deep-rooted role in guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys.
Who is Spiritual Direction for?
Spiritual Direction is for anyone who seeks deeper understanding and growth in their spiritual or religious life. It’s a broad and inclusive practice that can benefit a wide range of people, regardless of their specific beliefs or traditions. Here’s a more detailed look at who might seek Spiritual Direction:
Individuals seeking to notice God’s presence in their everyday lives
Individuals seeking to grow spiritually
Those experiencing significant life changes
Religious and Spiritual Practitioners
Those in crisis seeking God’s grace in the midst of difficulties
Individuals seeking meaning and purpose in their lives
Individuals desiring to be honest with God about questions, concerns, emotions and feelings
Those wanting to draw closer to God through contemplation
Spiritual Direction is a flexible and adaptable practice designed to support a wide range of personal and spiritual needs. It offers a space for reflection, guidance, and growth, tailored to the unique journey of each individual.
What does a meeting look like?
Sessions may involve discussions on prayer practices, sacred texts, personal experiences, and challenges in faith. The director may invite the seeker to reflect on their relationship with God, integrate spiritual practices into daily life, and cultivate a deeper awareness of the presence of God in all aspects of life.
Meetings between the director and seeker will likely contain moments of silence, prayer, reading and reflecting on Scripture, and, of course, conversation. There is no agenda or curriculum—it is intentionally Spirit-led.
Typically, meetings occur once a month for about an hour. Meetings can be in-person or virtual.
What are my next steps if I’m interested?
Curious about Spiritual Direction and wondering if it’s the right fit for you? Take the first step towards deeper self-discovery with a FREE 30-minute introduction to Spiritual Direction with Kristyn from Everyday Spiritual Direction. Whether you're exploring spirituality, seeking guidance during life transitions, or simply curious, this introductory session will help you understand how Spiritual Direction can support your growth and well-being.