We need companions on our spiritual journey.The modern world has taught us to value autonomy and individualism. Our churches often see spirituality as personal and private. But we cannot go long in our Christian pilgrimage before realizing that isolation leads to spiritual barrenness. We soon discover that our souls long for accompaniment, intimacy and spiritual friendship. As a result, many Christians today are rediscovering the ancient practice of spiritual direction.In this inviting guide,David G. Benner introduces readers to the riches of spiritual friendship and direction, explaining what they are and how they are practiced. Spiritual direction moves beyond mere moral lifestyle accountability and goes deeper than popular notions ofmentoring or discipling. Through prayerful, guided attunement to God's activity, sacred companions provide care for the soul.If we are to experience significant spiritual formation and growth, our souls must be nurtured through spiritual companions.Benner, well-accustomed to God's work through relationships, models the kind of traveling companion who can move us toward deeper intimacy with God.



David G. Benner is an internationally known depth psychologist, transformational coach, and author whose life passion has been helping people walk the human path in a deeply spiritual way and the spiritual path in a deeply human way. His books include Sacred Companions and the Spiritual Journey trilogy, including The Gift of Being Yourself.



Foreword by Larry Crabb



Preface: Companions on the Spiritual Journey



Acknowledgments



Part One: Spiritual Friendship

1. The Transformational Journey

2. Hospitality, Presence Dialogue

3. Ideals of Spiritual Friendship



Part Two: Spiritual Direction

4. Demystifying Spiritual Direction

5. Soul Attunement

6. A Portrait of the Process

7. Becoming a Spiritual Director



Part Three: Combining Spiritual Friendship Direction

8. Spiritual accompaniment in Small Groups

9. Spiritual Accompaniment in Marriage



Epilogue: The High Calling of Sacred Companions



Suggestions for Further Reading



General Listing



Index