Spiritual Direction ~ Spiritual Companionship

In every religious tradition and across the ages, people have sought companions for their spiritual journey.  They turn to someone who will journey with them to a deeper place and listen with them to the movement of the Spirit of God within them.

The terms Spiritual Director and Spiritual Companion are often used interchangeably.  While there is a distinction about being a spiritual companion as a form of friendship, here both refer to a particular relationship as a person desires to delve deeper and reflect upon their everyday life journey with the assistance of someone they trust will listen deeply with them.

Spiritual Direction/Companioning is a way that people have chosen to live out their spiritual lives in the world.  They seek God who forms their hearts and lives. 

Spiritual Direction/Companioning may also be part of a person’s retreat experience.  Some find that making a private retreat affords them the time and space for extended times of quiet and contemplation.  Having the opportunity for daily conversation and direction may be a supportive addition for this style of retreat.

Whether a Directed Retreat or on going Spiritual Direction/Companioning, such meetings assist a person as they develop inner peace; greater understanding of their life’s direction and discernment leading toward decisions and choices.

At the core of spiritual direction are these questions like these:  “How am I in relationship with God, neighbor and self?  What is God calling me to in my life?  What is the deepest desire of my heart? Where is God when I am suffering?  What is God’s will for me especially when I am struggling with life events, choices and decisions?”

Spiritual Directors may assist a person as they discern prayer and spiritual practices that reflect the temperament and life circumstances of an individual.

They offer encouragement, challenges and affirmation.

Unless a Director has the additional education and certification, they are not psychotherapists.  Directors will be clear with new people about this distinction.  It is not unusual for some people in a therapeutic process to also seek Spiritual Direction.  Like psychotherapists, Spiritual Directors hold the confidence of the people they meet with, providing a safe environment for a person to explore their faith, prayer life, and life journey.

Ordinarily, a person meets with a Spiritual Director once a month for a one-hour session and are encouraged to keep regular appointments.  As one begins Spiritual Direction it is understood that part of the initial discernment is whether the Director is the right person or if this kind of relationship fits one’s needs.

We request a minimum donation of $25 for each appointment.  Please give what you can afford.  Those who give more assist others in need.   We are grateful for your support!

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 There are two Spiritual Directors at Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center: 

 Sr. Roberta A. Popara, O.P.

Dr. Ellen K. McCormack, Ph.D.

You can read their bios here  

Last Updated: July 31, 2008