Spiritual direction--also known as soul friending (from the Celtic anam cara), spiritual companioning, or holy listening--has ancient roots in Christianity and other faiths, yet is perfectly suited to the spiritual searching of modern people. It is a sacred conversation which balances our experience of communal worship by providing a one-on-one or small group experience of spiritual sharing. This assists seekers in sensing and responding to the overflowing love of God in prayer, spiritual practices, and all of life.
Spiritual companioning is a ministry rooted in God's gifts and call, and one which is often exercised informally and powerfully among close friends, family, and church members. In its more formal incarnation it is a profession which requires study, training, ongoing formation, and commitment to ethical guidelines safeguarding the welfare of clients. My own preparation includes an M.A. and Ph.D. in Theology from the University of Notre Dame and a certificate in Spiritual Direction from Shalom Prayer Center in Mt. Angel, Oregon. Thus, most spiritual directors request a stipend for their services--in my case, a sliding scale of $35.00 to $75.00 per 60 minute session for individual spiritual direction and $20.00 to $35.00 per person per 120 minute session for group spiritual direction. I also work with directees beyond the West Michigan region via Skype and phone.
I lead retreats, quiet days, adult courses, and evenings of prayer for churches and groups on a variety of topics including Ignatian, Celtic, or Women's Spirituality; Praying with Scripture; Healing and Reconciliation; Great Christian Mystics; Christian Discernment; and Parental Bereavement. My next retreat is an Ignatian Spirituality weekend at Transfiguration Spiritual Center August 27-30, 2015. (Carpooling may be available!) I offer a nine month training program in group spiritual direction at the beautiful All Saints Retreat House in Saugatuck, Michigan. The next class will begin in September 2015. I also offer the life-changing Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius in the Retreat in Daily Life Format (also known as the Nineteenth Annotation) to both individuals and groups.
If you would like to inquire about scheduling a retreat, quiet day, or course for your church or group; learn more about spiritual direction and how it can enrich your spiritual journey, or schedule a complimentary trial session, feel free to email me at revdrlauraATgrimesDOTws or call (937) 581-7996. It's important to find the right match with a spiritual companion, so I encourage people to interview other directors and can assist you in locating them through my connections in the regional spiritual direction community. Spiritual Directors International also has a searchable website which can help you locate directors and retreat centers, as well as much information about this wonderful ministry. Blessings on your sacred path!
