In my reading about spiritual direction and its importance, I see that a foundational need for spiritual direction is confirmation of what God is specifically speaking to a person. Reality that we are a fallen creature that can be deceived or scared off from fulfilling God’s will. Doing acts of faith presupposes a certain “darkness” that must be worked through. Spiritual direction helps us discern if “darkness” is from God or the evil one. Thus allowing us to move in confidence of faith.

In Christ, Richard

Well, it is not likely that I will understand all that you are asking perfectly, but I will take a shot at it…

It is a reasonable request to allow for a brief opening and closing prayer. The other forms of prayer you mentioned would require far more time than a typical session provides. If you are looking for instruction in these forms of prayer, a spiritual director should be able to provide guidance but not necessarily a long session on the topic.

It seems that communication between you and your director is incomplete – that you might not have been clear with her in a manner that allows for a clear response (or vice versa). If you continue the relationship, a healthy remedy would be to prepare your thoughts and questions beforehand (in writing) and ask them in your next meeting. That way you avoid the guessing game regarding her thoughts.

With respect to ending the relationship… the key question is, have you grown in virtue and relationship with Christ as a result of the relationship? If the answer is “yes” – you might want to invest in communication efforts. If the answer is “no” then it might be time to make a change. Prayer about a decision like this is always very important. The danger is that the relationship might be a challenge that God desires you to work through. It could be the primary reason he brought you together. Don't be surprised as frustration arises in the relationship. If you are making progress towards Christ, the enemy will seek to disrupt that progress. As well, good spiritual direction is a process of healing and growth that is often challenging and painful. These struggles and bleed into the relationship if both parties are not cautious.

Regardless of your decisions – don't make them lightly.

Pax Christi,

Dan

I found this rather strange since I have had spiritual direction before with another director and we always started or ended with a prayer.

I am considering not going back. And using some of your web site's direction instead. Another comment she made was I had been reading Caussaudes Abandonment to Divine Providence and she had not read it and I got the impression that reading was not good that I had to focus more on the experience….I believe it is a blend of both and I try to let God lead.

Appreciate your advice.