I have read a lot about the lives of saints - my favourites, Padre Pio, Saint Faustina and St Therese [Little Flower]. And I note that all had spiritual directors. I suspect that it is very hard to grow deep in faith without a spiritual director and I have become conscious of this recently as I struggle to grow more in the faith. I have prayed for a spiritual director but nothing has materialised. Is it better to have a priest as a spiritual director? Garabandal
Are they really necessary? The only ones I know that have spiritual directors these days are seminarians, to check on their progress etc. You could judge for yourself if you think your priest would be of help to you, but remember it is rather the exception than the norm for lay Catholics to have a spiritual director. All of the above belonged to religious orders, so a spiritual director was 'part of the trade'. If you really feel that you need one, then maybe you should have a chat with your priest. Pray about it, for God's providence to guide you on your situation. Sean
Sean, about two years ago I was actively seeking a Spiritual Director and found a priest whom I thought I related well to and he with me. It worked for about a year. Then I just kind of gravitated to my pastor who understands all I tell him and is an intuitive and very spiritual director. Between him, the forum and my time in front of the Tabernacle it works out very nicely for me. I've been very blessed. Lee
Lee, You're right; a forum like this where Catholics like us can listen to each other's testimonies and support each other is an excellent form of spiritual direction, I think anyway. If I did not have a forum to participate in, I would not have a bit of the experience that I have now, mainly gained from others' advice and recommendations. Garabandal, What about your parish priest? Do you think he might make a suitable spiritual director? Seán
Sean, I have been in my present parish for over 4 years and the PP wouldn't know my name as he has never visited our home and is perhaps too busy to get to know the flock. He is a nice man getting on in years but I couldn't say if he would be a good spiritual director or not.
I am blessed to have a very special priest in my life. He is 87 years young and has truely been a blessing to our family. We have five priests in our parish and I find myself disappointed if he is not the celebrant at the Sunday mass I attend - choice of five masses each Sunday. It is hard for me not to check the schedule to ensure he is there, as I know that all priest act in the name of Christ. Cecil
