My approach to Spiritual Direction, or Holy Listening, integrates the wisdom of the Enneagram and Ignatian Spirituality. I consider it an honor to listen deeply and notice the gold in each person I sit with.
The spiritual journey is often a lonely path, especially in difficult or trying times. A sacred companion, like a spiritual director, can guide and reflect back to us God’s presence in our life and the world—awakening new possibilities, connections, and deeper meaning.
Spiritual Direction is a listening relationship where two people intentionally look at one person’s life to see how God is working in the everyday activities of that life. The “director” is simply a companion who offers a safe place, without judgement, shame or fixing, to the “directee”. The directee brings questions, fears, anger, longings and desires to a conversation, in order to discover God in all of their realities.
Spiritual direction is a radically hospitable space, where people are welcomed completely in their “as is” condition, invited to talk about whatever they are experiencing in their soul. Father Richard Rohr says it this way, “If you do not have someone to guide you, to hold onto you during the times of not knowing, you will normally stay at your present level of growth.” I invite you to explore the healing modality of spiritual direction together with me. Monthly, 55 minute sessions are most common. I work in spiritual direction with both men and women.
****Leader 1-1 Spiritual Formation Day Intensive available now with Beth! —Learn More Here
My Approach
Why do most people come to spiritual direction?
Seeking God when life is complex and uncertain
Finding that “old ways” of faith are no longer working
Growing in self and God awareness
Looking for a safe and confidential place to process life and decisions
Desiring to heal their image of God and self
Longing for greater intimacy
Frequently Asked Questions
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Spiritual directors are listening companions trained to walk with individuals as they look for God at work in their life. They offer a safe place to unpack the spiritual journey. They meet one-on-one with individuals to listen, offer observations, and ask questions. While spiritual direction is a listening ministry, it is different from counseling or therapy. Spiritual directors do not attempt to fix or solve problems. They listen by offering support and encouragement as you look for God in the realities of everyday life.
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We usually begin with offering a few moments of quiet, taking a few deep breaths, connecting with God and allowing thoughts and feelings to surface. When you are ready, you will begin the conversation by sharing something that you’ve been thinking or feeling. I will listen without interrupting and ask a question or make an observation as it seems appropriate. A session lasts around 55 minutes and usually ends with closing silence or prayer.
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God is in all things and is working in each part of your life—relationships, work, hobbies, and hardships. You are encouraged to talk about anything and everything in spiritual direction, even your doubts and anger.
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Please go to my calendly page here—https://calendly.com/bbennett-mif/spiritual-direction-fit-call
***Complimentary 30 minute first time call
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I suggest that everyone, including myself, meet with a spiritual direction once/month. The movements of God can be nuanced and difficult to see sometimes, and it is good to have someone help you notice. A monthly appointment provides the structure we need for pausing to notice.
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Spiritual directors have participated in a two-year training program designed to hone their listening skills and provide a strong theological foundation for ministry. In addition, spiritual directors are committed to journeying with God through spiritual practices and engagement in a community of faith. They also commit to receiving regular spiritual direction. I received my training as a spiritual director with Sustainable Faith.