Spiritual Direction

Life’s roller coaster can often lead us to put our own spirituality on hold – often simply because we “don’t have time” to devote to our faith. I recently changed jobs – completely new city and entirely new career path – and occasionally I’ve found myself so absorbed in work that I put off my own spiritual needs.

I found the antidote for this common ailment – a spiritual adviser/director. I began with spiritual direction several years ago when my husband and I became involved with a formal lay ministry training program through our diocese. Having a spiritual director was a mandatory requirement of this program.

Once a month, I spend an hour with my personal advisor whose sole purpose for that hour is me and my faith journey. She has become my friend and sounding board among other things. I look forward to our monthly meetings with anticipation and longing to take my faith to a new level.

A few years ago my husband was accepted into the diaconate formation program. He was ordained this past October as a permanent deacon. He was called by God to serve – of this I am absolutely positive. But I was a little apprehensive about seeing myself as a “deacon’s wife”.

I have learned much about myself during the spiritual direction meetings, but I have also learned much about our faith, our traditions, and ways to keep my faith center in my life – including work, marriage, and community.

I owe my wonderful spiritual director so much more than money could ever repay. She has given me the tools to be happy in my life, to strive to learn more about the Catholic faith, and to always think of myself as one of God’s children instead of simply “the deacon’s wife”.

I wear many hats now – mother, wife, grandmother, sister, daughter, employee, Eucharistic Minister, web designer, writer, artist, college graduate (a year now), and I am feeling drawn to formally learn how to be a spiritual director! I would like to be an integral part of another’s spiritual journey.