What is spiritual direction?
Spiritual direction is about two persons sharing, one of whom is trained to do holy listening and help discover how and where God is already present in one’s life. Trained to listen to our sacred stories in a nonjudgmental way, the spiritual director enables us to move forward, growing and developing in our own personal friendship with a loving God. The true Director is the Holy Spirit, and the director is a companion on this sacred journey.
It is the whole person, body, mind and spirit that is material for sharing and not simply about the spiritual, prayer and faith life, though it does include this. Meeting with a spiritual director is done in a sacred, confidential way so we can share and listen for God’s movements in our personal relationships, work and prayer life. It is about discovering God’s presence in all our life experiences. Every moment God is inviting us to an ever-deepening relationship. We are free to either accept or resist the invitation.
Who do I contact for spiritual direction?
For any questions or to schedule an appointment with a spiritual director, contact Sister Josue Behnen at (320) 363-7179 or jbehnen@csbsju.edu.
Is there a fee for spiritual direction?
Spiritual direction is a professional ministry, and so our suggested fee is $55 per session. We do not turn people away if they are unable to pay; we are happy to adjust the fee in order to meet their needs.
Supervision
If you are a spiritual director, you are asked to meet with peers for regularly scheduled group-facilitated supervision sessions for ongoing support in this ministry. Sessions are facilitated by a spiritual director trained to lead the process of supervision. If you are interested, contact Sister Eunice Antony at (320) 363-8927 or eantony@csbsju.edu.
Spiritual Direction Certificate Program
In collaboration with the Spirituality Center, Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary offers a two-year graduate certificate in Spiritual Direction, which includes an internship with the guidance of trained supervisors. This certificate weaves together the traditional Benedictine practices of hospitality, stability, continual conversion, and reading life as sacred story.