The Process of Spiritual Guidance
I offer spiritual guidance for individuals and for small groups of people willing to be openly vulnerable to the mysterious intervention of God's Holy Spirit.
For individuals
“Spiritual direction—meeting of two people whose desire is to prayerfully listen for the movements of the Holy Spirit in all areas of a person’s life, a three way relationship” ~ Tilden Edwards
- You and I meet every 4 to 6 weeks, usually for an hour, in person, by phone or via video conference.
- A session usually begins with a prayer and a time of silence.
- You set the tone and topic for each session.
- I listen without judgment, ask curious questions, and pray with you.
- I offered reminders, as needed, that you are, at all times and in every situation, a beloved child of God.
- Together we cultivate awareness of the presence of God and how God is moving in your life.
In groups
"The Intentional goal of group spiritual direction is to help each participant become more aware of God in their lives, for the sake of others. In other words, it leads to an awakening of the soul. This awakening then leads to a life which is purposeful and intentional. Group spiritual direction helps individuals grow in their faith, love others more fully and participate in the mission of the church more effectively. " ~ Alice Fryling
- A group that meets for spiritual guidance usually consists of four people and me as the facilitator.
- The group typically meets once a month for two hours, in person or by video conference.
- The group shares times of prayer and silence that create a safe and sacred environment in which members have an opportunity to present a question or an issue related to their spiritual life.
- After a member presents, the group sits in prayerful silence. From that silence the listeners reflect on what they heard as the member presented. These reflections are offered as open-ended questions (e,g,, Where is God in this? What is being invited here?) and curious appreciation, observation, and wondering.
- Between sessions the group members and the facilitator remember each other in prayer.
