FAQ Categories: Spiritual Direction

If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, you are ready.

• Do you desire to establish a deeper, more personal relationship with God?
• Do you desire to listen and respond to God?
• Are you willing to meet on a regular basis with a spiritual director to share your experiences?
• Are you willing to take the time to listen to your true self and to God?

Spiritual directors are available for pre-scheduled sessions in person, by phone, or online.

You will likely benefit most from working with a spiritual director who has a background, training and experience in spiritual direction, theology and spirituality. There are multiple programs Spiritual Directors have completed and obtained certification or degrees in that provide the tools needed to assist you with your spiritual needs.

Spiritual direction concentrates on your spiritual life and your connection with the sacred, whereas counseling focuses on therapeutic management of life’s problems. Although God is very much present in all of life’s circumstances, these two areas are pursued separately.

Typically, the suggested donation for a spiritual direction session ranges from $30 to $50 for a one-hour session. At Marywood, you will not be turned away if you are unable to afford the service.

The relationship with your Spiritual Director is an important element on your journey. If you are not connecting with the Spiritual Director you have chosen, don’t hesitate to ask for a change.

Spiritual direction offers you the opportunity to experience God’s action and presence in your life through the guidance of a spiritual director, whose ministry is one of listening and support. Our directors listen with openness as you come to know and name the sacred more clearly in your life.

Most often, regular one-hour meetings with a spiritual director occur once each month. The frequency of the sessions, however, will vary according to your circumstances.

If you have asked questions like “Who am I?” or “What am I to do?” you have the curiosity and willingness to attend to your spiritual journey. If you are trying to discern God’s will in your life you are ready for spiritual direction.

You can expect to be part of a one-to-one relationship with a trained and certified person who listens without judgement and maintains complete confidentiality. You may be asked questions to help you go deeper or you may explore prayers, scripture, poetry, or anything you bring with you. Generally, you meet once a month for about an hour.