Spiritual Direction: Beyond the Beginnings

Abstract

Contemporary Christian spiritual direction is situated within a theological and historical context of religious pluralism. Current writings about spiritual direction per se are few in number. Instead, contemporary authors tend to focus on a wide range of popular spiritual and psychological topics to inform or inspire seekers. Books or articles written for spiritual directors are more likely to explore the nature of spiritual direction in specific religious or spiritual traditions, such as Christian, Anglican, Jewish and Benedictine, Jesuit, or Carmelite, or to treat issues related to the experience of beginning directors. Janet Ruffing's treatment of the theoretical foundations and contemporary practice of spiritual direction supports spiritual development rooted in the wisdom of the Christian tradition. She recognizes similarities and differences in Buddhism, for example, yet avoids any religious eclecticism that wittingly or unwittingly colonizes other spiritual traditions. Ruffing's clear and concise approach to Spiritual Direction: Beyond the Beginnings breaks new ground in support of beginning and experienced spiritual directors who engage in the sacred trust of assisting directees in mature spiritual development.