Engaging with the Mystery of Life
Spiritual direction is a ministry of accompanying and supporting others as they strive to discover, develop, and deepen their relationship to the Divine. A spiritual director makes a commitment to walk compassionately with another person on their spiritual journey and offers guidance in bringing clarity and conviction to their spiritual search. Spiritual direction may be short term, focusing on a specific area of a person's spiritual life or a specific issue of discernment, or it may be a long term relationship in which the fullness of one's spiritual journey is shared as it unfolds.
My Approach
I offer contemplative spiritual guidance to those seeking to live an authentic life. I would describe contemplative spirituality as a way of living which honors mystery. A contemplative person is one who cultivates the capacity to peacefully and non-judgmentally remain open to the fullness of the human experience. Through a process of deep, empathetic listening, insightful questioning and reflection, and creating an atmosphere of safety and trust I will help you discover your own unique truth, cultivate the capacity for inner peace, and fully accept the belief that you are valuable and your life is meaningful. I also offer guidance in choosing and establishing healthy and transformative spiritual practices in your life. I specialize in offering guidance in mindfulness meditation and Christian contemplative prayer.
It is important to note that my role as a spiritual guide is not to offer you answers, but to help you ask the questions you need to ask and to discover your own answers. I work with people from a variety of religious backgrounds. I am trained and educated in an interfaith approach to pastoral care and spiritual direction. I will discuss with you which types of religious language and symbolism are meaningful for you and I will respect the sacredness of your unique journey and story.
It is important to note that my role as a spiritual guide is not to offer you answers, but to help you ask the questions you need to ask and to discover your own answers. I work with people from a variety of religious backgrounds. I am trained and educated in an interfaith approach to pastoral care and spiritual direction. I will discuss with you which types of religious language and symbolism are meaningful for you and I will respect the sacredness of your unique journey and story.
What to Expect
When we establish a spiritual direction relationship you can expect:
A safe space and time set aside where you can share your story and speak your truth without fear of criticism or judgment.
Compassionate feedback and guidance concerning spiritual questions or issues of discernment from a person educated and trained in theology and pastoral care.
Accountability and guidance in establishing healthy and transformative spiritual practices in your life.
Respect for the sacredness of your unique spiritual journey.
A safe space and time set aside where you can share your story and speak your truth without fear of criticism or judgment.
Compassionate feedback and guidance concerning spiritual questions or issues of discernment from a person educated and trained in theology and pastoral care.
Accountability and guidance in establishing healthy and transformative spiritual practices in your life.
Respect for the sacredness of your unique spiritual journey.
Models of Spiritual Direction
TraditionalThe traditional model of spiritual direction is to meet for one hour, once per month. This is a time to share the unfolding of your spiritual journey and receive empathetic listening, accompaniment, and support. This model is best for people who have an established spiritual practice and are rooted in their tradition.
Suggested Fee: $60 per month First meeting is always free |
CoachingI also offer a coaching model of spiritual direction for those who are beginning to be aware of their spiritual journey for the first time or who are going through a period of significant transition in their faith. This model includes two, one hour meetings per month and email check-ins between meetings. My role as a spiritual director is still to offer support and guidance as you discover your own unique path.
Suggested Fee: $120 per month First meeting is always free |
Create Your Own JourneyYou may be in a place in your journey where you simply wish to meet one time, or only meet when you feel the need, or simply check-in periodically via email or phone. I am open to working with you however you wish in regards to frequency of meetings.
Suggested Fee: $60 per meeting First meeting is always free |
Let's Work Together
I am available to meet with people at The First United Methodist Church, 600 State St., Salem, OR. Please contact me directly to make an appointment. If you would need to meet in a different location please contact me and I will work with you to make the necessary arrangements. An initial half-hour meeting is free of charge.