Spiritual Companioning (Direction) Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I attend a spiritual companioning session?
Most people meet monthly for an hour, but this is arranged by you and your spiritual companion.
What do I talk about?
Anything! You can talk about anything and everything – the good, bad and difficult stuff of life. You are encouraged to reflect on experiences where you noticed something happening within you – love, hate, anger, joy, frustration etc.
How long do I stay in spiritual companionship?
It’s usually a long-term process, though you may have several spiritual directors over the years. You can opt out or change spiritual directors when you feel the time is right. All sessions have a break over the summer; it’s a good time to reassess.
What sort of people are spiritual companions?
Ordinary everyday people! There are men and women, young and old, some are ministers, pastors or in religious orders, but many are not. They come from all branches and denominations of the church. You don’t have to be a churchgoer to have spiritual direction.
Spiritual companions are people with the gifts for this practice, who have spent time in training and study. They receive spiritual companionship themselves; they know what it is like to sit in the pilgrim’s chair.
What does it cost?
You are invited to make a contribution that is appropriate for your circumstances. Suggestions are $75 per session, $70 for WellSpring members/concession. Your spiritual companion will discuss this with you at the first session with the aim of settling on a suitable figure.
Where do we meet?
You may meet with your spiritual companion at WellSpring in Ashburton, at your spiritual companion's home, or another mutually convenient location. Some folk meet online using systems like zoom.
Is there a Code of Ethics?
Yes, spiritual companions agree to adhere to a Code of Ethics, as outlined by the Australian Ecumenical Council for Spiritual Direction. The Code of Ethics can be downloaded from the Policy Documents page of our website.
