Spiritual direction or accompaniment is a long-standing Christian ministry in which help is given by one person to another to enable that person to discern God’s presence and action in the midst of everyday life.
People seek spiritual direction at all stages of life and for different reasons: seeking discernment, learning to pray, seeking wisdom in life’s changes and choices, rekindling faith when feeling lost, hurt or confused, wanting to draw closer to God.
Spiritual Direction is not counselling, and it is not one person telling another what to do, what to believe or how to live. The Holy Spirit is the true guide. The role of the director is to listen and help the person discern the call and action of the Holy Spirit for themselves.
Spiritual Directors are trained and experienced in sensitive, non-directive, non-judgmental listening. They seek to help people recognise and understand God’s presence and action in their everyday life and experience. They offer a safe, confidential space for people to find their own ways to draw closer to God.
The Diocese of Guildford Network of Spiritual Directors is a large, ecumenical group of trained individuals, male and female, ordained and lay, from a wide variety of backgrounds, spirituality and gifting. All members of the network have completed a recognised training course in Spiritual Direction, have up-to-date safeguarding training and receive supervision on a regular basis. They operate independently of the parish church structure.
To apply for spiritual direction, please complete the Spiritual Direction Enquiry form and return it to sd_enquiries@cofeguildford.org.uk. For further information, or if you would like to join the network as a Director, please also email sd_enquiries@cofeguildford.org.uk. One of the coordinators will contact you to explore what you are looking for.