Embedded Files
“A spiritual director is one who helps another to recognize and to follow the inspirations of grace in their life, in order to arrive at the end to which God is leading him”
“A spiritual director is one who helps another to recognize and to follow the inspirations of grace in their life, in order to arrive at the end to which God is leading him”
-Thomas Merton
What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual direction is a process of spiritual formation, where a trained individual accompanies another person on their spiritual journey through the process of listening, asking questions and making the space for God to work.
Who is Spiritual Direction for?
Who is Spiritual Direction for?
Everyone! Anyone who desires to grow in awareness of God’s presence and activity in their life can benefit from spiritual direction.
FAQ
FAQ
Can you tell me more about spiritual direction?
Can you tell me more about spiritual direction?
Spiritual direction is the ancient practice of holding sacred space to listen, question, ponder, and explore what God is doing in our lives. The role of the director is to listen and provide a confidential space so help you and where God is working in your life, wonder, and ask questions that hopefully guide you to a deeper and holistic connection with God in your everyday life.
Spiritual direction is for anyone who is looking for a deeper connection with God. This longing may show up as a quiet ache for something more, a sense that the status quo no longer satisfies, or a clearer realization that God feels absent or distant.
At the heart of spiritual direction is the belief that God is always at work, gently drawing us into deeper awareness of Presence. Spiritual direction offers space to pause, to listen, and to notice this sacred movement. It interrupts the noise of daily life just long enough for us to attend more intentionally to the ways God is already near.
Are session in-person or virtual?
Are session in-person or virtual?
Sessions can be in-person for those in the Champaign-Urbana area. If you're outside the area or prefer the convenience of remote meetings, virtual spiritual direction is also offered.
How do I prepare for a session?
How do I prepare for a session?
You don't need to bring anything. Some people bring a journal or something they are reading.
What can I expect during a session?
What can I expect during a session?
Sessions are 45-60 minutes and vary depending how the spirit moves
There will be a time to briefly share about your spiritual journey and how you are or aren't encountering God in your daily life
Then there will be opportunities to practice silence and other contemplative exercises
Sessions are typically monthly, but the schedule can be flexible based on your individual circumstances
What kind of training do you have?
What kind of training do you have?
With over 25 years of experience in both education and ministry, I bring a deep love for spiritual formation and a heart for walking alongside others in their faith journeys. I currently serve as the Director of Spiritual Formation at Copper Creek Church in Champaign, Illinois, and am certified through the Fall Creek Abbey School of Spiritual Direction. As a member of Spiritual Directors International (SDI) and Christ-centered Spiritual Direction Association (CSDA), I remain committed to ongoing growth, integrity, and care in the sacred work of spiritual direction.
Is spiritual direction different than counseling?
Is spiritual direction different than counseling?
Spiritual Direction is different than.....
Counseling or therapy – While both can be healing and supportive, therapy focuses on mental health and emotional issues. Spiritual direction focuses on deepening awareness of God’s presence and movement in your life.
Coaching or mentoring – Spiritual direction isn’t about setting goals, receiving advice, or being guided by someone with more experience. It’
Religious instruction – Spiritual direction is not about adhering to a specific belief system. It welcomes seekers, skeptics, and the faithful alike.
A quick fix – It’s a slow, contemplative process that invites you to sit with questions rather than rush to answers.
What Others are Saying
"I had never done spiritual direction before Lanee and I would recommend it to anyone- no matter where you are on your spiritual walk. Having a designated time to just sit with God and have Lanee talk me through truly listening to God, is an oasis in a world of busyness. I have deepened my faith and discovered new aspects of Jesus I never would have seen without her!"
- Melody
"It's like a spa for the soul."
- Abby
"I have been wrestling with questions about God and Church for years, and until I started meeting with Lanee, I felt like there was no way forward. She grounded me as I wrestled with these questions and helped me get of my own way and allow transformation to happen. She doesn't push, but asks excellent questions, shares wisdom and resources, and makes space for listening and meditation in a gentle, approachable way. Meeting with her leaves me feeling refreshed and hopeful, willing to stay engaged and open to what is happening in and around me."
- Cathy
“Spiritual direction is a sacred space where I can pause and listen more deeply to God's presence in my life. Through gentle guidance and compassionate presence, Lanee helps me slow down and quiet myself to just be with God.”
- Sybil
“The soul is like a wild animal, tough, resilient, savvy, self-sufficient and yet exceedingly shy... if we are willing to sit silently for an hour or two at the base of a tree, the creature we’re waiting for may well emerge.”
“The soul is like a wild animal, tough, resilient, savvy, self-sufficient and yet exceedingly shy... if we are willing to sit silently for an hour or two at the base of a tree, the creature we’re waiting for may well emerge.”
-Parker Palmer A Hidden Wholeness: The Journey Toward an Undivided Life
Report abuse