Spiritual Direction
So what is spiritual direction? We’ve inherited this term, and unfortunately, it may conjure up images of a somewhat scary authority figure telling another what to do. That’s not my desire or approach. A better name is spiritual accompaniment, which captures the role of one who seeks to notice God’s working in the life of another.
In spiritual direction sessions, we examine the person’s relationship with God, how this relationship can flourish, and the pathways God invites them into. I find it such a joy to help people notice God working in their lives and how they respond to God’s invitations. Often we’ll focus on one main topic in a session.
Because of my desire to facilitate people encountering God, I offer an opening prayer exercise (such as from my book 7 Ways to Pray). I give a choice between two or three different practices, as it can be interesting for the directee to notice how they react (including resistance). Of course, they don’t need to start off the session in this way; it’s completely up to them.
Spiritual direction engages with the slow but sure work of God. Through it, people notice how they are changing under the Spirit’s loving care. I count it a gift and privilege to walk with some of God’s beloved in this way.
My background
I obtained my MA in Christian spirituality from Heythrop College, University of London, with merit in 2017, with my distinction-level dissertation on participation in God through Christ. In 2021 I completed the SpiDir spiritual direction training (SpiDir, the spiritual direction network of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire) and received their recommendation as a spiritual director. I have completed, and keep up to date, training in safeguarding through the National Safeguarding Team of the Church of England, and I continue my development through regular supervision and by attending training events.
As a spiritual director I’m linked with Coracle (with the tagline “Spiritual Formation for Kingdom Action”), based in Virginia, and from them engage in regular peer-group supervision along with monthly collegial support; I contribute to their regular online prayer encounter, Space for God. I’m also connected with the London Centre for Spiritual Direction, with whom I receive continuing education.
I’m sorry … my roster is full and I’m not accepting any new directees at this time.
Want more?
A short article on why spiritual direction matters to spiritual formation, published by Coracle.
Wondering how spiritual direction compares with other helping professions such as mentors, coaches, and counsellors? Margot Eyring from Coracle explores the differences.
Why I haven’t shared much about being a spiritual director – the hiddenness of the practice.
11 questions to ask a prospective spiritual director.