What can I expect in a typical spiritual direction session?
I usually light a candle to mark our time together in this sacred space. Next, we briefly greet each other before settling into a few moments of silence. At the start of our first session, especially if you’ve never been in direction before, I will provide a brief overview of spiritual direction. We will have covered some of this during our 30-minute introductory call, which I offer to prospective directees.
During our first session, I can answer your questions about spiritual direction. You might tell me about your expectations, needs, concerns, or how your soul or spirit is doing that day. There will be periods of silence while I listen to your words, and notice movements and expressions of the Spirit, or God, or however you prefer to call the Divine. Don’t worry, if your views are non-theistic, or “spiritual but not religious,” or if you’d rather just explore deep existential questions, that’s completely fine. I believe spiritual direction with the right director benefits everyone. If, however, after our initial session—or at any time thereafter—one of us feels that we’re not a good match, I will be more than happy to refer you to another spiritual director whom I trust.
ABOUT ME
Anne Randerson, Ph.D. Spiritual Director
“I first got in touch with Anne Randerson a year ago while I was making a transition after living in Pakistan for over 40 years, to settling back in my own country, England.
I felt overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task, of letting go of so much, both possessions and people, and starting again after so long. Through spiritual direction Anne was able to listen to the guidance I was offered and it became simpler to make decisions one after another. I am now settled in Weymouth, Dorset where I have found a new community and a new church, and while everyone here is complaining that they have so much ‘stuff’ thanks to Anne, I was able to leave all mine behind and start again, and accept the help I was given to bring this about.
I am a convert Catholic. Anne was always respectful of my Faith tradition, and I know she would be happy also had it been a different one. She helped me to listen to the light and to be at peace in the many decisions I had to make. She was a great strength at that time and in the settling down process here in my new home. I am so very grateful to her!” J.B.
“Anne’s questions and her curious and compassionate way of asking and listening got me to think ‘outside of my box’ and helped me to discover and define my spirituality in a new way.” L.K.