The Art of Spiritual Direction 2026-2027

Ministry & Leadership

Begins 15 September 2026

This course is about the purpose and practice of Spiritual Direction. Drawing its inspiration from the insights of Ignatius of Loyola, the focus of attention is the person’s relationship with God. The core of each session will be threefold: the experience of prayer itself, listening to one another’s experience of prayer, and reflecting on the experience of listening. Plenary input and discussions will explore key themes in the process of spiritual direction. Participants will need to come with a willingness to be open about their own relationship with God, as well as open to others who may be very different to them.

Each participant will be expected to offer regular spiritual listening to one person for six months during the course. Guidance will be given on how to find a pilgrim, and regular group supervision will be given by the team.

Participants are expected to assign some time each day for their own prayer. A written or oral journal of reflections on listening experiences will be kept, and there will be reading/assignments to complete between sessions. Approximately 2.5 hours per week (in addition to personal prayer time) should be allowed for this.

Who is it for those who:

• Wish to continue to reflect on and deepen their prayer life and faith journey;
• Have experience in a range of Christian prayer traditions (such as the ‘Soul Food’ or ‘Discerning Listening 1’ courses, or equivalent);
• Have some experience and training in Christian listening (such as the ‘Spiritual Listening’ or ‘Discerning Listening 2’ courses);
• Find themselves drawn to listening to others’ faith journeys;
• Sense a calling to a ministry of Spiritual Direction and wish to discern this further;
• Are accompanying others on their journey and wish to develop this ministry;
• Are lay or ordained;
• Have been, and remain in receipt of Spiritual Direction for at least the past year;
• Will be committed to attending all the course sessions.

Course Hosts: Lichfield Diocesan Spirituality Team

Dates and time: Various Tuesdays throughout the year, though always meeting between 10.00am and 4.00pm. The course also includes a retreat 19-22 Jan (inclusive) at Llangasty Retreat House.

Venue: Some online and some on-site at Shallowford House, Stone, Staffordshire (use the postcode ST15 0NZ for Satnavs. For compehensive directions, please click here).

Cost: £420 for each of the three terms, plus £350 for the residential. Bursary funding is available.

Booking and further information: General information can be accessed on the Spiritual Direction Courses page. The Application Form (with details including dates) is available at Apply for Spiritual Direction course.