WELCOME
What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual direction is prominent in many faith traditions. It reminds me of my ancestors sharing stories on the front porch. There was a hospitable presence of God, a love difficult to understand, yet present and felt. Surrounded by quiet fields, we embraced the gifts of attending each other. Moments of pause were prayer. The more we listened, we nurtured the deep meaning and identity of our belonging. Tenderness was spread with holiness and grace held us until we came together again.
BOB CHAPMAN, SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR
MY APPROACH
I am a person who shares a gentle spirit and a comforting presence. I offer an authentic and sustaining spiritual direction practice. With a heart toward social justice and unconditional regard, along with a spirit of kindness, mercy and grace, I serve any seeker who is yearning to deepen their spiritual life. I welcome struggling souls who are questioning their faith, and individuals who do not even profess or have a belief in God or any faith tradition.
My spiritual direction practice of engaging support is open to anyone who is seeking to grow in their faith and relationship with God through spiritual nurture, creative endeavors, causes embracing social justice and community outreach.
Directee... client... seeker...
What are you looking for?
When I began spiritual direction as a directee or seeker, I was looking for someone to listen, without offering unsolicited advice. As a gift from the Beloved, I received a spiritual director who was willing to simply sit with me. With deep contemplative listening, asking open-opened questions, he accepted me, confidentially holding my fear, doubts, struggles, failures, and longings.
With blessing, this spiritual favour brought change to my being and the practice of my ministry. I hope to provide a similarly affirming space for the directees and clients whom I serve.
WHY THE NAME?
APERTURE SPIRITUAL DIRECTION
Photography has been one of my spiritual practices. The lens opening of a camera, the aperture, is like the heart of a camera. It is always in need of adjustment as it determines the amount of light exposing the picture. Therapy, pastoral counseling, medicine, fitness, education, and the arts assist us in making accommodations to our hurried ways. Less known, yet equally important, the art of spiritual direction can add focus and balance, providing guidance toward the LIGHT. Like a compass or lighthouse on the beach, it can assist in navigating the way.
FOCUS.
Trained in the art of spiritual direction, my purpose is one of embracing the spirit and authenticity of the ancient tradition. Like the Desert Fathers and Mothers of the third century, with unconditional positive regard, I receive each person (known as a directee or client) and their stories in an empathic, non-directive way, focusing on deep listening, discernment, silence and prayer.
balance.
Knowing first hand of the challenges inherent in churches, I specialize in confidential and affirming support to clergy, ministerial candidates seeking to become ordained and laity. With vast experience in educational institutions and health care facilities, I also work closely with caretakers, educators, and health care workers.
LIGHT.
I believe that connection, contemplation, and creativity can see us through unsettling times and help us find and be in light. WIth this in mind, I desire to be a humble soul, of goodness and gentle presence, where my spirit may impart a divine word, to become a constant glow in a person’s life.
on the blog
To receive spiritual direction is to recognize that God does not solve all our problems or answer all our questions, but leads us closer to the mystery of our existence where all our questions cease.
- HENRI J.M. NOUWEN