Spiritual direction group to explore Jesus' life, message

For six weeks in January and February, parish life directors, catechists, youth ministry leaders and other Catholics can deepen their relationship with Christ through "Journey Into the Heart of God," a guided prayer experience of group spiritual direction.

"These sessions are based on the Ignatian retreat series that was popular several years ago," noted Marge Milanese, one of the two coordinators.

"Spiritual direction is not 'given to' a person or a group of participants," noted Sister Joanne St. Hilaire, CSJ, the other coordinator. "Rather, the spiritual director is a listener, a companion for someone who is on the journey to enrich and deepen their spiritual relationship with Jesus Christ."

Both women are certified spiritual directors on the staff at the Albany diocesan Consultation Center, where the sessions will be offered.

Learning about Jesus

"The sessions will deal with issues of God's unconditional love and our sinfulness, the infancy and early childhood of Jesus, His young life and public ministry, His passion and death, and His resurrection," said Ms. Milanese. "Then we will address how we, as members of the Church, are called to ministry and how we choose to answer that call.

"This workshop is for those involved in faith formation and all those who are concerned about where God is leading them. God is always leading us to grow in our ministry. This is a wonderful opportunity for those involved in the catechetical ministries to deepen that growth."

Sister Joanne added, "We wanted to offer this at a time when ministry leaders and catechists could devote some time to their own spiritual nourishment. During Lent and Advent, most catechists are doing their work. The winter months are quiet."

Table of contents

The workshops will include Scripture, music, reflection and an opportunity to journal.

"There is such a need right now for spiritual direction in our lives. We're all busy; we all have schedules. This is a time to relax with God and let God lead us even deeper into our spiritual journey," Ms. Milanese said.

(The sessions begin Jan. 11 at the Consultation Center in Albany. To register, call 489-4431.)

(12/16/04)