Questions to ask a Spiritual Director

[Catholic4ever98]

Hi,
I am currently in the process of finding a spiritual director. I asked my local priest, and he told me that both he and another priest do spiritual direction for people. I plan on meeting with the 2 individually to talk and to ask quedtions about spiritual direction in order to get a feel as to who might be the best fit for me. What would be some good questions to ask them during this meeting to help me figure out who I should go to for spiritual direction?? Any advice?
Thank you and God bless!
-Catholic4ever98

 

[Shakuhachi]

How about their training in spiritual direction?
Also
Who are their favorite saints? Who do they like to read?

How do they see their role as a “spiritual Director”?

 

[UpUpAndAway]

There are six questions I always ask a prospective SD.

1. How long have you been an SD?
2. What motivated you to become one?
3. Could you tell me about any special training or formation you received to prepare you to direct others spiritually?
4. Could you tell me a little about your own spiritual disciplines?
5. Do you have an SD with whom you meet regularly?
6. Are there any Church teachings that you disagree or struggle with?

I sometimes have others, depending upon the answers given to these questions. It can feel awkward, but I have already had to disentangle myself from an SD relationship that, in hindsight, should never have existed in the first place and would not have if only I had asked these questions at the start. I’d prefer to avoid a repeat of that situation.

You can find other suggested questions for prospective spiritual directors and general advice for seeking one in Navigating the Interior Life: Spiritual Direction and the Journey to God by Daniel Burke (foreword by Fr. John Bartunek, MC, STL). In fact, I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for an SD, especially if doing so for the first time.