Do I have to let a layperson be my minor child's spiritual director?

[JKS]

In order to receive confirmation in December, my daughter is required to be in CCD this fall. It seems that part of the class is meeting with a laywoman who has been assigned to be her spiritual director. She is required to confide in someone that I don’t know well, and what I do know, I don’t trust. Since part of her homework is to prepare questions for her spiritual direction session, it doesn’t look like this is optional. I was under the impression that spiritual direction is for an adult, who chooses a priest that he trusts. Must I allow this if I want my daughter to receive confirmation this winter?

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

Laypersons can be spiritual directors, but certainly not for a minor child in opposition to the wishes of the parent or legal guardian. That said, it would be better to first try to work this out with the spiritual director. If you don’t know the assigned spiritual director or trust this person, then make an appointment with her and ask questions. Ask about relevant training, experience, accountability, methods, goals, etc. – all the normal things you would ask someone who is to be an authority figure in your child’s life. If this person satisfies your concerns, then the problem is solved. If not, or if she refuses to cooperate, then work your way up the ladder (i.e., CCD director, pastor, diocese). If need be, the St. Joseph Foundation may be able to provide assistance.