My Understanding of Spiritual Direction
My understanding of Spiritual Direction is rooted in Soul Care. The word “Soul” originating in the Greek as psyche, often described in classical philosophy as the breath of life, encompassing the Mind, Body, and Spirit. Spiritual Direction, which tends to the Soul, necessitates a compassionate presence of accompaniment as an individual attends to the interior work of their entire being while inviting their understanding of the Divine into the process.
Soul Care through spiritual direction tends to the psyche in a holistic way and is beneficial and available to everyone. My particular passion leans towards supporting those in helping professions and community-based organizations. These individuals face unique challenges and complexities in their spiritual journeys; showing up and being present to their needs in spiritual direction provides support, renewal, and restoration for those who tirelessly serve others. This involves compassionate listening, reflective questioning, and trauma-informed practices. Incorporating my years of experience in non-profit leadership, I seek to create a space where these individuals can replenish their souls, deepen their spiritual awareness, and find sustenance for their sacred work.
As a Spiritual Director, I extend an invitation into the Beauty of God; just as Francis of Assisi saw the Divine Beauty in all creation and extended an invitation to others to behold it. I strive to create a space where individuals can encounter the Beauty of God within themselves and the world around them through deep listening, gentle guidance, and compassionate presence. I seek to facilitate this sacred encounter with an invitation for individuals to explore the depths of their souls and discover the Divine presence that dwells within.
A “Directee” needs to come into this space as open and transparent as possible. This will involve vulnerability which requires trust. This trust must be built over time, and we will journey together in this endeavor. The “Directee” has within them the authority to determine how much trust is given, and how vulnerable they are willing to be. We will engage in the best Trauma-Informed practices that we can, to honor all those involved while orientating ourselves in the direction of a healthy and authentic soul.
Recognizing and honoring the distinction between spiritual direction and therapy is essential. In spiritual direction, we accompany individuals on their spiritual journeys, focusing on their relationship with the Divine and deepening their spiritual awareness. While we may address emotional and psychological aspects within the context of spirituality and self-reflection, we do not diagnose mental health conditions or aim to "fix" psychological issues. Our role is to provide a sacred space for exploration and companionship. When therapeutic intervention is needed, we refer individuals to qualified therapists or mental health professionals, maintaining clarity and upholding the integrity of spiritual direction.
Spiritual Direction is a sacred journey of a profound encounter between the directee and the Divine, facilitated by the holy presence of both the director and the directee. Within this sacred space, hearts are opened, wounds are healed, and souls are nourished. Recognizing the profound impact of trauma, especially religious trauma, I approach spiritual direction through a trauma-informed lens by prioritizing safety, empowerment, and collaboration in the healing journey. Every session invites individuals to explore their spiritual paths with gentleness, compassion, and respect, fostering an environment of trust and authenticity.