Section outline

  • 1) to introduce the student to spiritual direction' s rich heritage and historical background within the Christian Community--a centuries-old, developmental process.

    2) to present this particular style of one-on-one relationship of mentor-to-directee interaction as distinct from pastoral counseling, and to know the difference.

    3) to emphasize the place of prayer and of prayerful intuitive listening, with reliance on the Holy spirit and sensitivity to the way the Holy Spirit is working, uniquely, in the life of each directee.

    4) to recognize the signs in one's life that one is being 'called' to serve as a 'spiritual friend' or 'anam cara' for others.

    5) to recognize that one who is being asked to serve as 'spiritual friend' for another must also be one who is, herself/himself seeking guidance of a spiritual mentor