“It is because one antelope will blow the dust from the other’s eye that the two antelopes walk together.” - African Proverb

Individual spirtual direction is an ancient practice found in many religious traditions. It is for anyone who is searching for deeper spiritual insight. Through spiritual direction you can become aware of the many ways God reaches out to you in your daily life. “The still small voice is with you whether you are racing through your busy days or in prayer. Most of us need to learn how to listen. A spiritual director helps teach you how to slow down, tune in and focus on life’s deeper issues.” (*Srs. of St. Joseph) For me, in particular, it is a delight to journey with another in this way, especially with an interfaith, non-denominational focus so that I can better serve any seeker who desires support and guidance for their particular journey.

If you long to deepen your relationship with the Divine so that you can recognize how Spirit might be calling you and moving in your life, spiritual direction may be for you. Individual spiritual direction usually occurs once a month for one hour. Spiritual direction can be short term or long term depending on the needs and life circumstances of the directee.

The following was excerpted from Show Me Your Way: The Complete Guide to Exploring Interfaith Spiritual Direction by Howard A. Addison.

Spiritual Direction has been described as:

• a process that helps us recognize God’s guidance that is there for us if we are open to it
• a relationship between guide and seeker through which the guide helps the seeker detect God’s movement within and to appreciate the divine plan that might underlie the seemingly coincidental occurrences of life
• “Holy Listening” or “leaning into God together”

What are the differences between spiritual direction and other forms of guidance/counseling?

• If you are interested in learning about the beliefs, observances, and texts of a religion because you want to know more or seek more to fully identify with that faith community, you are seeking spiritual education or formation.
• If you want to relieve your anxieties and learn how to understand and deal with their causes, you are seeking psychotherapy.
• If you want insight into how the wisdom of religious tradition might help you understand and respond to your problems, you are seeking pastoral counseling.
• If you wish to deepen your relationship with God so that you can recognize how God’s spirit might be calling you and moving in your life, you are seeking spiritual direction or guidance.

Jan's creative and loving spirit shines forth in all aspects of her life. This is evident as spiritual director, writer, author, editor and spiritual friend. As Spiritual Director she draws on her life in the Holy Spirit in order to attune herself to the inner movement of God in her directees. Jan knows well that the Source of this holy ministry is God. It is in that deep faith and an inclusive, hospitable spirit that Jan is able to listen and respond to all who desire to deepen in their spiritual life through spiritual direction.

Sr. Nancy Brousseau, Director
Institute of Spirituality, Dominican Center at Marywood
Grand Rapids, MI