Supervision entails the practice of reflecting contemplatively on one’s work as a spiritual director, noticing interior movements and the action of God in the context of a specific session. The supervisor is an experienced spiritual director specifically trained to assist in this contemplative and evocative process. In the words of author Mary Rose Bumpus, “Supervision is a conversation between peers that ultimately fosters the wellbeing of the absent other.”      

Why is supervision important?

The short answer: Spiritual directors are humans and, as such, are NOT detached observers.  In companioning others on their journey with God, spiritual directors encounter painful stories and situations, a plethora of complex issues, intense emotions, unanswerable questions, moral dilemmas and more. They are deeply affected by what they hear – in helpful and unhelpful ways – and need a place to explore their inner movements and resulting responses in a safe, confidential space. 

The bottom line: Supervision helps spiritual directors grow in self-awareness, self-understanding and interior freedom which leads to an expanded capacity to be present and attentive to those they serve. 

Additionally, many professional networks and associations include regular supervision as a “best practice” for spiritual directors.

Why train with us?

At Sustainable Faith, our hands-on, cohort-style of learning has made us one of the leading trainers of spiritual directors in the United States and beyond. We bring the same time-tested, learn-by-doing stance to our Supervision training: Small class sizes, relevant reading, evocative learning, and an emphasis on group and individual practice in an environment of mutual support and personal instruction.

Pre-requisites:

Minimum 3 years spiritual direction experience and 150 sessions post-graduation; regular rhythm of receiving spiritual direction and supervision.