Spiritual Director?

[Brigid]

I would love having a spiritual director! I had a friend who probably would have been mine, but she moved right as I was starting to talk to her more... I hope I'll be able to get one in the future.

I might ask one of my parish priests, but they're both super busy. and it would be awkward. I would much rather have a female...

[puellapaschalis]

[quote name='Brigid' post='1586070' date='Jun 29 2008, 07:58 AM']I might ask one of my parish priests, but they're both super busy. and it would be awkward.[/quote]

I had the same concerns when I asked my sd - he's a priest in the North of the Netherlands (we have about 30 priests for more than 80 parishes). After I had asked him I went to a friend and talked about it, and he said to me, "Priests see these things as a reward more than a burden. As long as you don't go behaving like a Frisian parish council, you'll be fine!"

A couple of times I've actually asked my sd if meeting with me isn't yet another straw on his back. He replied that no matter how much of his time and energy it may take, helping someone who is Catholic and who wants to be more Catholic to actually become yet more Catholic is something he'd always want to do. And that if more people asked him he'd think it were brilliant.

There will often be practical constraints. But don't let them stop you at least asking. In Dutch we say: niet schieten is altijd mis. Not to shoot is to always miss (the target).

[shortnun]

We've had a number of topics lately about Spiritual Directors (even how to find ones nearby to you). I highly recommend one, just from my experience it's been really helpful. And a quick search here will give you all the recent threads!

[franciscanheart]

very necessary!!

[praying4carmel]

I could not have done my walk without my SD. She Helped me stay grounded on my Journey, to keep and open mind, and to really Listen to the Spirit.

It helped me alot that she was a Sister; it really gave me insight as she is 45 years young and has been a Sister for over 22 years.

[johnnydigit]

[quote name='Brigid' post='1586070' date='Jun 28 2008, 10:58 PM']I might ask one of my parish priests, but they're both super busy. and it would be awkward. I would much rather have a female...[/quote]

you never know. when i asked, i was pretty sure he would say he was too busy, but he just whipped out his calendar book and asked, "what day is good for you?" plus you gotta start somewhere, and it's the perfect opportunity to show God that you are ready to just try. who knows, he may be perfect for you, or he may be the first step into finding the perfect one. he can give you recommendations and give you the experience you need to find one. =)

[Domine ut Videam]

It is essential. I had one during High School. Then last year (which was my first year at college, 7 hrs away from home) I didn't have one. As a result, I definitely noticed a change in my relationship w/God and my spiritual life. As a result, next year I am getting back on track and have already lined up a SD.

SD's are helpful because they view your life with and objective eye and one that cares first and foremost about your holiness and/or discernment. Also, I find it helpful to have a SD who is also my confessor because then when I go to confession they are more knowledgable about my struggles and vices, etc...

Anyways, all who are seeking a SD will definitley be in my prayers. Good Luck! And as was said, most priests would love it if you asked them, so just give it a shot!

Totus Tuus Maria!

Edited July 1, 2008 by Domine ut Videam