Parish priest counseling/ Spiritual Directors

[Fraevo63]

Hi. I am in the process of full initiation into the Church. I am in RCIA, I was babtized as an infant, still need confirmation and first Holy Communion. Went to first confession last Saturday. Became a official parish member after confession as well.
My question concerns receiving counsel from my pastor and/or having a spiritual director. Is it acceptable to call the parish to schedule counseling sessions with the pastor and how do you go about obtaining a spiritual director? I am a 55 year old single male.
Thank you.

 

[SuscipeMeDomine]

You can ask your pastor if he knows of someone who does either counselling or spiritual direction. He may or may not have the time or expertise, but he may be able to refer you to someone.

Counseling and spiritual direction are two different things so the first thing may be to determine what you’re looking for. Is there a problem you’re trying to resolve or are you looking for support for your spiritual life?

If your priest can’t help, Catholic Charities may be able to refer you to a counselor. If you’re looking for a spiritual director you might check with local retreat houses, monasteries, or convents. If you have Jesuits in the area, perhaps at a school or parish, you might check with them since this is an area where they excel.