Spiritual Direction

[codefro]

I have been feeling like I need SD and have been trying to find a priest. I found a Franciscan priest who got back to me. I have never been to a SD session so I don’t know what to expect. What are some experiences people have had?

 

[Oneofthewomen]

Spiritual direction has been a wonderful experience for me.

My SD is also my confessor, so we talk a lot about sin & temptation, and how to avoid it. We talk about how God is working in my life, how my prayer life is going, etc.

The best analogy I have ever heard is that a SD is like a mirror. Their job is to reflect back to you what you are saying, in a way that helps you to see God working in all things.

Not every priest is cut out to be a spiritual director, it is really a charism that some have, some do not. My best advice to find one is to contact the vocations office or the adult faith formation office for your diocese. Or, if you have any religious houses in your area, you may want to try them to.

Good luck in your search and peace be with you on your journey!!

 

[AlanFromWichita]

I was an awe of mine within minutes. He was gentle and kind and knowledgeable not only in theology but in psychology, and he had ties to several respected scientists and psychologists.

First, there is no need to prepare at all. Just walk in unassuming and let it happen.

That said, if there are certain problems you have that you want to mention to him, I don’t think it would hurt to jot a few down on a piece of paper and bring it. But then let him run the meeting and you will no doubt be delighted.

That isn’t to say you’ll ultimately be a good match. I think that some people gravitate toward different personalities in spiritual direction. I know when my SD quit the one who followed him just didn’t inspire me. Nice guy and we had a good discussion, but just wasn’t the same.

Alan