What is spiritual direction?
Spiritual direction is an intentional and prayerful conversation with another person to reflect on God’s presence in your life and to discern how He is guiding you. Spiritual direction is centered on nurturing and deepening your relationship with God. It is about paying attention to His voice in your life and identifying the obstacles that may be preventing you from becoming the person God has called you to be.
At its core, spiritual direction is rooted in the journey of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). Just as Jesus walked alongside the disciples, helping them recognize His presence and guiding them toward a deeper understanding of His mission, spiritual direction is about inviting the Holy Spirit into our own journey, allowing God to illuminate our hearts and minds, and showing us the path forward. Spiritual direction provides a sacred space where we can listen attentively to God’s whispers, reflect on His movements in our lives, and discern His will.
Spiritual direction is for anyone seeking to grow in their relationship with God, regardless of background or experience. It is not about teaching or instructing, nor is it a form of counseling; rather, it is a supportive and reflective conversation focused on God’s presence. It is a process of discerning where God might be leading us, and what might be hindering us from following that path more fully.
Sessions typically last about an hour and take place once a month, though the frequency and length of direction may vary depending on your needs and discernment. In these sessions, the director helps you reflect on your prayer life, discuss your spiritual experiences, and explore the ways God is speaking to you in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of your life.
What Spiritual Direction Is Not
Spiritual direction is not therapy or counseling. While therapy often focuses on addressing emotional issues, mental health concerns, or coping strategies, spiritual direction is about deepening your relationship with God and discerning His presence in your life. It is not about problem-solving or offering psychological advice. Instead, it is a prayerful conversation focused on your spiritual journey, helping you recognize God’s voice, reflect on your prayer life, and discern His guidance. Spiritual direction is also not about instruction or teaching, but rather an opportunity to listen to God and grow in your faith.
How to start Spiritual Direction
We are blessed to have several highly experienced spiritual directors at St. David the King, including Nanci Bachman (nbachman@stdavidtheking.com), Deacon Tom Baker (deacontombaker@gmail.com), and Anne Ryan (maryan44@aol.com). Each of them would be happy to meet with you for an initial conversation, free from any obligation, to see if spiritual direction is right for you and to answer any questions you might have. Fr. Jason also offers spiritual direction, though in a limited capacity due to time constraints.
If you are seeking to deepen your relationship with God and discern His presence in your life, we invite you to explore spiritual direction. Let us walk with you on this sacred journey, just as Christ walked with the disciples on the road to Emmaus.