Has anyone ever asked you how they could pray better? How they could grow in their relationship with God? How they could be a better Christian? Has anyone ever shared their spiritual struggles and questions with you? These are signs you may be called to accompany others on the spiritual journey.

As Pope Francis noted, “The Church will have to ini­tiate everyone—priests, religious and laity—into this ‘art of accompaniment’ which teaches us to remove our sandals before the sacred ground of the other (cf. Ex 3:5).” (Evangelii Gaudium #169)

This course will serve as foundational for those who wish to continue learning the practice of spiritual direction. It is also a stand-alone course for those who wish to learn the “art of accompaniment”. As soon as the faithful are stabilized in their own spiritual practice, the opportunity to support and accompany others often arises.

The course consists of five hours of instruction per day for five days. There will also be opportunities over meals and during the days for private meetings with the instructors. Housing and meals are provided and included in the cost. Daily Mass, Eucharistic adoration, Sacramental Confession and prayer are included in the program and available to any who are interested. The program also offers sufficient time for walks, silence, and reflection to best integrate the teaching offered during the course. Saint Vincent Archabbey is a peaceful environment that naturally fosters reflection and contemplation.