In this podcast, the host explores the concept of spiritual direction and its transformative power in deepening one's relationship with God. She discusses the joy found in offering spiritual direction and emphasizes the importance of community, silence, and holding space. The conversation aims to assist listeners in their decision-making process regarding spiritual direction.
Spiritual direction is a practice of co-listening that creates a safe space for individuals to deepen their relationship with God.
Silence plays a healing role in the spiritual direction process, providing directees the space to think, feel, and be without rushing towards conclusions or explanations.
Deep dives
What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual direction is a practice of co-listening that helps individuals deepen their relationship with God. It provides a space for curiosity, discovery, and held silence, allowing both the director and the directee to submit to the movement of God. It is not a transactional relationship, and the purpose is not to provide solutions or advice, but to bear witness and be present. Spiritual direction is practiced by trained listeners who walk prayerfully beside the directee, creating a safe and welcoming environment for the soul to emerge.
Discoveries as a Spiritual Director
As a spiritual director, the speaker has discovered humility in holding space for vulnerable moments and finding joy in the ministry of presence. The practice has also made her aware of her own formation and the importance of community, as well as the compulsion to help, which she resists in order to fully embrace the purpose of spiritual direction. Additionally, silence plays a healing role in the process, providing directees with the space to think, feel, and be without rushing towards conclusions or explanations.
The Art of Spiritual Direction
Spiritual direction is an ancient practice that has its roots in desert fathers and mothers, and while it has been more prominent in Catholic traditions, it is becoming more mainstream among Protestants. It is a countercultural practice of co-listening that allows individuals to explore their changing inner lives in God's presence. Spiritual direction is non-transactional and focuses on the whole person, offering a safe and trustworthy space for the soul to speak its truth under quiet and inviting conditions.
Today's question is a continuation of a conversation we started over 100 episodes ago, all about spiritual direction. I mentioned at the beginning of every episode that I serve as a spiritual director, and maybe you've heard that and wondered what it means or what that looks like. Well, I'll answer some of those questions about that today. Listen in.