Spiritual Accompaniment (sometimes termed Spiritual Direction)  is an ancient and well-tested practice. It is based on the premise that God, the Source of All, is present and active in our lives and that we can become more sensitive to this Presence through reflection and prayer.

Why engage with it?  To enable us to notice and appreciate the Divine Presence with us in all we are and do, in challenging and difficult times as well as in joyful ones.  It is offered to help us to awaken to a deep knowledge of being beloved of God and to respond to this Presence with a growing freedom and commitment.

Who is it available for?  Anyone who wishes to reflect with another on their life and spiritual journey.  The Accompanier is not there to give advice or to say how you ought to be, feel or proceed, but to listen attentively to what is offered and act as a ‘sounding board’ for whatever is brought and shared.  It is not counselling.  

Many people have had experiences or glimpses which are felt as ‘spiritual’ – whether they occur in the wonder of a sun rise, or whilst washing dishes, amidst the bustle of the market place, or in a quiet moment – and they may be barely perceptible or momentous. Spiritual Accompaniment pays attention to these experiences in order to  let them develop and deepen.

What could I share?  The material which is shared in your session may involve what has happened when you meditate or pray, your spiritual journey, relationships, or a any other aspect of what has occurred in life and how these events have affected you and your relationship with the Spirit of God.  All that is shared is confidential.

Your Accompanier is there to be alongside you as you explore and  is not there to push you in a particular direction, faith or denomination!   If requested by you, resources may be suggested regarding ways of becoming more still, ways of praying and meditating, spiritual traditions and books.

How long is a session and how often?  Each sessions lasts for up to an hour and is arranged at a mutually convenient time.  After the initial exploratory meeting, if you choose to continue, then three further meetings may be arranged – perhaps once a month – so that trust can be built up and the value of this way of deepening relationship with God has been given an opportunity to unfold and be explored.  Sometimes, individuals prefer to come on a quarterly basis.

Is there a fee for this?  At the Coach House we ask for a donation for  this.  A guideline is £15-£25 per session depending on  your circumstances such as waged/unwaged.