Nurture Souls, Guide Hearts: An Opportunity to Become a Certified Spiritual Director
In-depth training in the art of spiritual direction through The Compass Center
In the past few weeks, I've had the incredible privilege of speaking with men and women across the United States who are eager to enroll in our new certificate program in spiritual direction. Their enthusiasm has been inspiring, and it’s clear that this opportunity is deeply resonating with people’s hearts and imaginations. That’s why I’m excited to share this revised of an article first published on December 30, 2024. Starting in mid-March 2025, I’ll be launching the first-ever 9-month certificate program in spiritual direction—and I want YOU to be among the first to hear about it! If you’re ready to take a deep dive into spiritual formation and learn how to guide others toward a closer relationship with God, read on!
I appreciate all who support, subscribe, and share this independent endeavor in spiritual formation with friends and family. If you haven’t already — please consider choosing a free or paid subscription as well as gifting a subscription to someone who would be interested in knowing about the certificate program in spiritual direction.
WHAT IS CHRISTIAN SPIRITUAL DIRECTION?
Christian spiritual direction is the practice of helping others develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
A spiritual director is not a therapist, counselor, or life coach. Instead, a spiritual director is a companion—someone who walks alongside others, creating space for pause, reflection, and discernment. The goal is to help individuals recognize God’s presence in their lives and respond to His invitation for deeper intimacy.
WHAT IS THE GOAL OF SPIRITUAL DIRECTION?
he goal of spiritual direction is to help others grow in their awareness of God’s presence and activity in their lives, to listen more attentively to the Holy Spirit, and to deepen their relationship with God. Spiritual direction is distinct from counseling, psychotherapy, or coaching. It is a unique form of spiritual accompaniment where you’ll create space for reflection, ask meaningful questions, and help others recognize God’s movement in their everyday lives.
WHAT DOES A SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR DO?
A spiritual director practices several key arts:
Holy Listening: Paying close attention to the spiritual movements in one’s life and being open to God’s presence.
Companioning: Walking alongside others on their spiritual journey, offering guidance and support.
Contemplative Prayer: Encouraging others to listen to God in silence and stillness, deepening their relationship with Him.
Spiritual Conversation: Asking questions that invite reflection, such as: Where is God in this moment? Who is God becoming for you?
Spiritual Formation: Supporting the growth of Christ-like transformation in others through prayer, conversation, and reflection.
WHAT WILL THE TRAINING INCLUDE?
This 9-month inaugural program includes four main components:
At-home Activities: Personal reflection and growth exercises that will deepen your understanding of spiritual direction.
“What’sApp” Cohort Conversations: Ongoing guided conversations where you’ll explore with your cohort key concepts in Christian spirituality, spiritual growth, and spiritual guidance.
Hands-on Experience: Practical experience in spiritual direction, helping you develop real-world skills.
Retreat: A retreat focused on deepening your understanding and experience of spiritual direction.
You’ll need to dedicate about 5-8 hours per month over the course of the program, excluding the retreat.
What Benefits Will You Receive by Becoming a Spiritual Director?
A Closer Relationship with God: As a spiritual director, you’ll not only guide others but also deepen your own connection with God. You’ll become more aware of His voice and presence, strengthening your personal relationship with Him.
The Joy of Helping Others Grow: There’s nothing more fulfilling than helping others discover God’s plan for their lives. As a spiritual director, you’ll walk with people on their spiritual journey, helping them navigate challenges and experience God’s love and guidance.
Master the Art of Listening: This program will help you develop deep listening skills, allowing you to hear both the Holy Spirit and the people you guide. This skill will transform your own spiritual journey and allow you to serve others more compassionately.
Personal Transformation: As you guide others in their faith, you’ll also experience personal transformation. You’ll grow in your own spiritual journey, living out the principles you share with others and deepening your faith.
A Fulfilling Ministry: Spiritual direction is a meaningful and impactful ministry. You’ll have the opportunity to help others grow closer to Christ and experience His presence in their everyday lives.
WHAT IS THE COST?
While most spiritual direction programs cost thousands of dollars, I’m offering this 9-month inaugural program at a fraction of the typical price to make it accessible to more people.
$69 per month for the first 3 months
$149 per month for the remaining 6 months
Total cost: $1,101
Special Offer: Pay in full upfront and save—only $949 for the entire program!
When you compare this to the standard cost of similar programs, which can start at $7,000, you’ll see that this is an incredible value for top-tier spiritual formation training.
Please note: There will be an additional cost for books and the onsite retreat, which are required as part of the program. Payment plans are available, and scholarships may be offered—don’t let cost prevent you from taking part in this transformative experience!
READY TO EMBARK ON THIS JOURNEY?
Spaces are limited for this inaugural training group, so don’t wait! Apply now to secure your spot in this transformative program and become a spiritual guide for others. You can reach outhere to let me know your interest or gather more information.
I'm a fellow Spiritual Director and am excited you are offering this training! Also, some of us have been talking about doing a substack Spiritual Direction group. Let me know if you would be interested and if you're ok with me adding your information to this post:
https://journeyingalongside.substack.com/p/the-hidden-gem-of-spiritual-direction