Beginning Spiritual Direction
Spiritual direction often begins with a simple desire to listen more attentively—to your life, to your prayer, and to the presence of God in the midst of both.
You may have been considering spiritual direction for some time, or you may simply be curious about what it might offer.
Either is a good place to begin.
Finding a Spiritual Director
Finding a spiritual director is less about choosing someone with particular answers and more about finding someone with whom you can listen attentively to your life and your relationship with God.
Spiritual directors come from a variety of Christian traditions and backgrounds. Many have completed formal training in spiritual direction and participate in ongoing formation and supervision.
You might begin by asking a retreat center, diocesan office, parish, monastery, or spiritual formation community for a recommendation.
Another resource is Spiritual Directors International (SDI), which maintains a directory of spiritual companions from a variety of traditions.
An initial conversation with a prospective director can help you discern whether the relationship feels comfortable and appropriate. It is reasonable to ask about their formation, experience, approach to spiritual direction, and practical arrangements.
There is no need to hurry. Finding someone with whom you can speak freely and listen deeply is itself part of the journey.
Beginning a Conversation
An initial conversation offers an opportunity to become acquainted, ask questions, and consider whether spiritual direction might be helpful at this point in your life.
There is no expectation that you will continue beyond that conversation. The purpose is simply to discern together whether this is a relationship you would like to explore.