Unity Hopeful
Dr. Elizabeth M. Woodard
Spiritual Direction
What is spiritual direction?
Do you ever wish to experience God more profoundly? Do you wish you had a safe space to unpack your experience and understanding of God? Do you wonder: What is the meaning of life? Of my life? Where am I being led? Does God have new gifts or invitations waiting for me? How do I hold and make sense of things that happen to me? Is this the life I want? What are my deepest desires? What does all this say about me? About the world? About God? Humans were created with the innate ability to see, hear, and follow God. God shows up to be seen to all those he loves – and that most certainly includes YOU! Often times, humans are too distracted, hurried, grieving, or trapped by unhealthy behaviors or beliefs to really see God. But this does not mean he isn’t there, waiting, acting, trying to be seen, and beckoning you: come closer. Spiritual direction is a sacred space in which we sift through the distractions to find God’s love, peace, and gifts waiting for you.Should you seek spiritual direction?
You’re worth it. Society tells us we are mere cogs in the machine; we have no real, lasting value. This is a lie. You are unique. Your story is unique. God’s action in your life is unique. It is ALWAYS grounded in love. You are God’s beloved son or daughter. God seeks the goodness and fullness of your life. Humans often don’t believe they are worth it. You are.“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)How closely are you listening for these plans? Consider this your invitation to come closer.
What a session will look like
It’s a bit of a misnomer to call your spiritual director the “director.” Our sessions won’t be me “telling you about God.” Rather, together, we will probe the types of questions listed above to look for God’s leading. God is the director.
In that sense, even though there are just two of us, I like to imagine a third chair. That’s where God joins us.
How does God direct? We listen for God’s voice in prayer, in your feelings, and in the events of your life. Do you feel a sense of grief? We will follow it. Is there a particular question or event that is on your mind? Let’s follow it. God shows up in what stirs our hearts.
Spiritual direction with me
I see directees both in person and via zoom. Sessions are one hour long. I typically see clients once per month, although it is sometimes helpful to meet more frequently at the beginning of our time together or in times of particular need. I am a Catholic theologian and spiritual director. My Ph.D in systematic theology comes from Catholic University, Master of Divinity from Boston University, and my certificate in spiritual direction and faith formation comes from Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. I see clients who are Catholic as well as any other types of Christian. As an ecumenist, I believe we are all the body of Christ. I also see people who are questioning/seeking/unsure of their faith beliefs. My job is not to try and convert you, but to help you see God action in your life. My Christianity does, naturally, serve as the lens through which I work. I always offer the first session for free. There is no obligation to continue if you don’t feel called. After the first session, I charge $100 per session. I never want cost to prohibit someone from being in spiritual direction, so if this figure would prohibit you from working with me, I offer a sliding scale and will work with you to come up with an amount that feels comfortable. I look forward to witnessing God’s action in your life!
