Decide on a Spiritual Director

What is Spiritual Direction?

Spiritual Direction is assistance given to persons in discernment, in growing in holiness and in the practice of Christian virtue. A spiritual director helps the directee in this under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who is the true director. Spiritual direction is not counseling or therapy, but rather guidance in the spiritual life. Spiritual direction should help one to become more open to the Holy Spirit and identify his action in one's life, to identify obstacles in the spiritual life and overcome them, and to grow in the life of prayer and virtue. It is a way that God works through the Church. It is important that one be open and honest with a director as one would be with the Lord Himself, so that he can work through his chosen human instruments.

How Do I Find a Spiritual Director?

Pray and ask the Lord to show you. Look for someone who is faithful to the teaching of the Church, prayerful, seeking holiness, witnessing a life of holiness, and who you are comfortable speaking with and can meet with on a regular basis. A good confessor may be someone to consider. You might also ask someone you trust for a recommendation.

When you find someone, meet a few times first to see how it works out. If you need help in deciding on a director, contact the vocations office for assistance.