BA (Hons) P.G.C.E PGCert
Spiritual Accompaniment
What is Spiritual Accompaniment & Is it for me?
'Spiritual Direction (accompaniment) is the contemplative practice of helping another person or group awaken to the mystery called God in all of life, and to respond to that discovery in a growing relationship of freedom and commitment.' James Keegan, SJ
Spiritual Accompaniment (often referred to as Spiritual Direction) is a confidential, non-judgmental space where you slow down, pay attention, and explore the inner dynamics of your life — including the ways God may be present and at work within your experiences.
There are many reasons you might feel drawn to accompaniment. You may long for a deeper, more sustaining faith — one that can carry you through the ordinary rhythms and challenges of life. Perhaps your spirituality is shifting, leaving you feeling confused or disoriented. You may be searching for a companion to help you explore what matters and feels authentic, or you may be approaching a season of change and need help discerning a new direction. Like many people, you may simply long for a safe, private space to voice your questions, doubts, pain, and struggles.
Experience has shown that spiritual accompaniment can help people to:
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Discover God's presence and activity in new ways that feel rich, authentic, and connected to their season of life
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Encounter the sacred in the ordinary
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Cultivate meaningful, nourishing spiritual practices that engage heart, mind, and body
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Develop more sustainable rhythms of life
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Grow in discernment and confidence when making decisions
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Find greater freedom from unhelpful beliefs and patterns
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Learn to be still and rest amid life's demands, pressures, and stresses
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Gain fresh insight, endurance, and hope through difficult or spiritually dry seasons
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Experience greater inner freedom to follow God in ways deeply aligned with who they are
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Feel supported and encouraged — especially those serving others who need a safe, nurturing space of their own
Spiritual accompaniment is for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God and explore the inner dynamics of their life, wherever they find themselves on the journey.
Sam offered a welcoming space to talk about my faith journey. It was helpful for me to have this allocated time to stop, reflect, and particularly ponder questions that helped me discern where God was moving in my life. I often came away with renewed excitement about how close God is if I’m taking the time to slow down and listen. Thank you Sam for introducing me to more contemplative ways. I’m now part of a contemplative group from my local church.
Mirjam Bruggers | Psychotherapist
I met with a few potential directors and decided to work with Sam as I enjoy her sense of humour. She values my creativity and also (very importantly) she follows my creative thinking process!
It's a joy to share what's on my heart, secure in the knowledge that I won't be judged. When you know you won't be judged, you can risk saying what you REALLY feel/think rather than what you OUGHT to feel/think, and as you bring those things honestly before God, you begin to experience a kind of healing and a greater level of freedom
Teri Watkins | Art Psychotherapist
I was in a spiritual wilderness once again due to big questions of faith and belief. I had consistently struggled to stay in community. It had become a pattern that had recurred many times over the last 6 or 7 years. After listening to what I was experiencing, Sam suggested that spiritual direction may be helpful. Within the first session, I was gaining insight into what was keeping me stuck. Sam never told me what I should think or do. She skilfully and lovingly asked questions that created internal spaces where God could minister to my heart and spirit. This has been life-changing. Thank you, Sam.
C.C Life & Business Coach