Spiritual Father / accountability in prayer

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Ite_ad_Ioseph

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So I would like a prayer rule and a priest to govern this; I’ve asked a priest I’m really close to if he could help and he seems to think it’s not that important. I really need to be accountable to someone here and I’m not sure how to ask a priest to do this without being awkward. I have both Latin and Eastern priests in my area. I can also be super awkward; any advice?
Pax
 
Indeed, it sounds to me as if what you’re really looking for is a spiritual director.
 
I asked a priest that frankly once, and he was not willing due to busy schedule and the other priests at his parish being in high demand for them as directors; some would only a man who is discerning but I am engaged. It was quite awkward for me.
 
Finding a spiritual director can be difficult, especially if you are wanting one who also happens to be a priest. Many priests simply do not have the time or training for it.

You might call the diocesan office and ask if they have a list of spiritual directors who are available. Sometimes retired priests have more time to devote to spiritual direction. Also check at monasteries in your region.

Be prepared that you may have to travel quite a distance to find a spiritual director. In my area it is not uncommon for people to drive 2-3 hours to see their spiritual director once a month or once every other month.
 
Should I ask the priest I’m close with if he’ll take on that role, since we’re already close?
 
It depends upon what you mean by “close.” Using my own definition and applying it to myself, I personally would not ask a priest I’m already close with to guide me spiritually. It’s more difficult to maintain objectivity in spiritual direction when a pre-existing relationship is part of the equation.

I know a lay woman who is a spiritual director. She told me that in her parish, she is not allowed to direct anyone who works for the parish, any member of her family, or anyone she considers to be a friend. If one of more of these scenarios applies to the relationship you have with the priest in question, I would advise you to look elsewhere. By that is just my opinion.
 
See my post (#5) in this thread for suggestions. And pray!
 
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