What is Spiritual Direction?

“We’re all on a faith journey, walking with people who realize God wants to communicate with them. They are looking for someone to lead them toward that.”

Ursuline Sister Ann McGrew, member of the Institute coordinating team

“Pastoral counseling is short term, taking a problem that needs attention. Spiritual direction is long term, to help them develop or deepen their relationship with God.”

Ursuline Sister Elaine Burke, member of the Institute coordinating team

“It’s an awesome thing to companion people on that deep inner journey, to help them discover what God is doing in their life.”

Ursuline Sister Marietta Wethington, member of the Institute coordinating team

“The realization of a loving relationship with God and with Jesus has slowly developed over the years. To attend to that loving relationship whole-heartedly, it seemed to me that being formed as a spiritual director would be a great path to take.”

Ursuline Sister Julia Head, class of 2006-2008

“It’s an opportunity to see God at work in the lives of other people.”

Sister Linda Jackson, OP, class of 2006-2008

“Spiritual direction is truly an ecumenical experience, across denominational and traditional lines. It’s interfaith like few other things are.”

Melanie Odom-Groh, class of 2006-2008

“We don’t just attend Mass, it’s a religious experience. We do have a spiritual connection with God.”

Randy Shelby, class of 2006-2008

“If we didn’t realize it’s the work of the Holy Spirit, we probably wouldn’t stay in the ministry. We grow in our prayer life.”

Ursuline Sister Elaine Burke, member of the Institute coordinating team

“I’m helping people unlock that window to God. It’s hard to take credit as a spiritual director, it’s God’s work.”

Ursuline Sister Ann McGrew, member of the Institute coordinating team