Spiritual Direction
Preparing for spiritual direction will be fruitful in many ways, even beyond the benefits of our session together. Following are resources that are helpful in providing a range of information.
Books
Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life
Most of us tend to think of the second half of life as largely about getting old, dealing with health issues, and letting go of life, but the whole thesis of this book is exactly the opposite. What looks like falling down can largely be experienced as "falling upward." In fact, it is not a loss but somehow actually a gain, as we have all seen with elders who have come to their fullness. This important book explores the counterintuitive message that we grow spiritually much more by doing wrong than by doing right - a fresh way of thinking about spirituality that grows throughout life.
Starting Spiritual Direction: A Guide to Getting Ready, Feeling Safe, and Getting the Most Out of Your Sessions
Written for people who are receiving spiritual direction, rather than giving it. In a friendly, easy-to-read style, Dr. Mabry tells you everything you need to know to make your spiritual direction sessions a sacred and fruitful time.
Websites
Spiritual Directors International
Spiritual Directors International (SDI) is a global learning community that advocates for the service of spiritual companionship or spiritual direction.
SDI’s Guidelines for Ethical Conduct
I am a registered member of SDI and adhere to the organization's stated Code of Ethics.
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC)
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) is an educational nonprofit introducing seekers to the contemplative Christian path of transformation.
Stillpoint
An open, inclusive community that exists to form deeply grounded spiritual directors, and to live together in a contemplative life of faith, spiritual practice, and action.
Labyrinth Locator
A labyrinth is an ancient spiritual tool designed to foster contemplation and spiritual transformation. Walked by contemplatives and lay people alike for centuries, labyrinths are typically formed as a circle with a singular path leading to a center and constructed out of a wide range of materials. Labyrinths today can be found embedded into the architecture of old churches, in the middle of remote forests, on rocky coastlines, in home gardens, and near contemporary community centers.