Certificate in Spiritual Direction
The longing for wisdom is primal and we intuitively sense our need for mentors in the Christian life. There is a way to find wisdom and share it. The formal name for that process is spiritual direction and those who consciously prepare for the task are called spiritual directors.
Sometimes referred to as “spiritual friends,” spiritual directors are trained to listen, pray, and ask questions in a fashion that encourages directees to look for the movement of the Holy Spirit in their lives. They ask the kind of questions that nurture the growth of wisdom, using the tools and values that have been sharpened over two millennia of prayerful observation.
Is this Program for You?
Do people seek you for compassionate listening? Do you find yourself helping others tend to their souls? Do you desire more training in the art of accompanied discernment? If you’ve asked yourself these questions then this program may be for you. Designed for graduate students, lay people, and clergy, the program is offered in a user-friendly, non-traditional format designed to accommodate the busy lives of people who wish to train during the weekend. We encourage CSD participants to read Susan S. Phillips' book, Candlelight: Illuminating the Art of Spiritual Direction as part of their discernment process.
Program Structure
CSD is a non-credit, continuing education program that seeks to train participants in the art of accompaniment and guidance of others in their spiritual journey. Training courses are offered through a cohort model, in eight weekend sessions held in January, May, and September over a period of three years. Participants will receive a certificate of completion after all required courses and training have been successfully fulfilled.
CSD Admission and Application Requirements
In addition to enhancing your own personal growth, the experience of receiving spiritual direction is beneficial to and grounds your training for directing others. Thus, applicants to the Certificate in Spiritual Direction (CSD) program at Perkins School of Theology must meet with a spiritual director at least 3-6 months before beginning the program. Upon acceptance, CSD students are required to meet monthly with a spiritual director throughout the duration of the program.
- Complete an online application with essay questions (cost of $100).
- Applications are currently not open. More information regarding the program will be available on April 16, 2025.
- Submit three letters of reference/recommendations.
- Of the three recommendation letters needed, at least one must be from your pastor or spiritual leader, and one recommendation must come from your spiritual director. Other letters of recommendation can come from ministry volunteers, church leaders, small group leaders, Sunday school teachers, parents, friends, etc.
- Letters of Recommendation should answer the following questions:
- How long have you known the candidate?
- Do you believe the candidate is well suited for and called to ministry?
- What do you believe are the candidate's gifts for that ministry?
Sign up for more information by following the link below.