SPIRITUAL DIRECTION   
The Center for Spiritual Development serves as a resource for spiritual direction.  See below for frequently asked questions about spiritual direction. For further inquiries about spiritual direction, please contact Cecilia Magladry, CSJ at cmagladry@csjorange.org or (714) 744-3175 ext. 4415, or David Hoover, MTS at dhoover@csjorange.org or (714) 744-3175 ext. 4403. Training programs in the ministry of spiritual direction are also offered by the CSD.

What is Spiritual Direction?

Spiritual direction is a ministry deeply rooted in the Christian tradition. Most fundamentally, the goal of spiritual direction is to help you become more aware of God's presence in your life and to make life decisions in fidelity to that awareness. Through the guidance of a trained spiritual director, this ministry can help you clarify, articulate and affirm your spiritual experience as revealed through all the situations and events in your life. This is done by providing a loving, open environment, giving support and feedback, and being a listener and companion for your journey. Spiritual direction is not psychotherapy or counseling, but utilizes the many skills of counseling.

Is This Something New?

No, in fact it is very old. Spiritual direction is an ancient art that dates back to the early Christian church. In the first centuries of Christianity, people went to the desert to seek spiritual guidance from the holy men and women living there. The term "spiritual direction" became common in the middle ages. Today it is often a more formalized ministry in many Christian faith traditions.

What Happens in a Session?

Often the session will begin with a few minutes of prayer or silence. Generally, the director listens in an open, prayerful environment to the directee's sharing about what is going on in their life. The time together is set aside for a growth in awareness of anything that is occurring in the person's life that has helped or hindered their relationship with God. The director acts as a supportive companion who allows the seeker to look honestly at their relationship with God as it is lived out in their everyday life and relationships. The emphasis is on openness, honesty, awareness, and affirmation of God's mysterious presence in our ordinary lives. The presence, action and guidance of the Holy Spirit is what is most deeply sought in each session.

How Often does Spiritual Direction Occur?

Sessions are generally fifty minutes in length and occur in varying frequency. About once a month is common for time between meetings, although the first few meetings may be more frequent to allow the director and directee to get to know each other.

Is There a Fee?

There is no set fee for spiritual direction. CSD does ask those involved in this ministry to make a donation in support of this ministry and those who share their time in this manner. A suggested (and much appreciated) donation is $50 for an individual direction session. If this is a hardship for you, give what you are able. Do not allow finances to deprive you of this valuable support.