What Is Spiritual Direction?
There have always been “counselors” in the Church. Long before the professional counseling movement, 4th century theologians like John Cassian and Evagrius of Pontus began to outline the work of “spiritual directors” — wise men and women who helped fellow Christians discern God’s activity in their lives. Some were formal members of the clergy; some weren’t. Below, our own resident spiritual director Tim Bathurst describes the classical understanding of spiritual direction, which is now offered here at PRN in addition to the clinical counseling that we have always practiced.
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What is Spiritual Direction?
with Tim Bathurst
Spiritual direction is the practice of sacred listening, where a trained leader helps individuals explore their spiritual journey and discern the presence of God in their lives. Distinct from counseling or coaching, a Spiritual Director journeys with another person, offering guidance and companionship as they explore their spiritual life. At its core, spiritual direction is about awareness – learning to tune-in to how God is speaking, guiding, and working in the ordinary moments of life. It is a process, where the directee (the person receiving direction) shares their experiences, questions, and longings, and the director helps them notice the patterns of God’s presence.
The Role of the Spiritual Director
The role of a director is to discern the presence of God’s Spirit in a particular session. A spiritual director typically does not provide answers or give advice. Instead, he or she actively creates a space for the directee to notice God’s presence. This is done through:
Sacred Listening: the director listens to the words spoken, but also to the emotions, longings, and movements of the Spirit in the directee’s life.
Asking Questions: Instead of offering answers, the director asks questions that help the directee explore her relationship with God.
Silence and Prayer: Silence is a key part of spiritual direction, giving space for the Spirit to move. Many directors will incorporate prayer, Scripture, or contemplative practices to deepen awareness of God’s presence.
Spiritual directors are committed to the belief that God is always communicating with us, but often the “noise and demands of daily life” drown out His voice.
Who Seeks Spiritual Direction?
People come to spiritual direction for a variety of reasons:
Seeking a Deeper Relationship with God: They may desire a deeper relationship with God, but need help from a trusted guide.
Discerning a Life Transition: People go through many life changes and often need assistance making decisions about work, relationships or calling. Spiritual directors are trained is this discernment process.
Navigating Seasons of Doubt and Dryness: There are many moments in the Christian life where God feels distant or absent. A director provides companionship during these wilderness moments.
Processing Grief, Joy or Change: God is often mysterious, and questions arise as we pursue Him. Spiritual direction offers a place to ask those questions and reflect on them in a quiet space.
Anyone desiring to grow in awareness of God’s presence in their life will benefit from spiritual direction. It is not only for clergy or the deeply religious, but available to anyone who desires a more intentional spiritual life.
The Format of Spiritual Direction
Spiritual direction typically takes place in one-on-one sessions, although group sessions are helpful. Sessions usually last an hour and occur monthly. They may take place in person, online, or in retreat settings. The conversation is confidential and guided by God. It is often said that the Holy Spirit is the main Spiritual Director in a session.
The Gift of Spiritual Direction
Spiritual Direction is an ancient practice in Christ’s church and has been a key part of the growth of many of God’s people. In a world filled with distractions, spiritual direction offers a rare and sacred space to listen, reflect and be deeply present to God.
Reach out to PRN today to schedule an appointment with a spiritual director, counselor, or psychiatrist!
