Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Religious Community Building • Religious Facilities Management • Congregation

Spiritual Direction

Term from Religious Institutions industry explained for recruiters

Spiritual Direction is a professional practice where trained individuals, called Spiritual Directors, guide and support others in their spiritual journey and faith development. Think of it like personal counseling, but focused specifically on spiritual and religious matters. Spiritual Directors help people explore their relationship with God, understand their faith better, and navigate religious questions. This role is found in various religious settings including churches, retreat centers, and religious educational institutions. Similar terms include "spiritual guidance," "soul care," or "spiritual companioning."

Examples in Resumes

Provided Spiritual Direction to over 30 individuals monthly in both group and one-on-one settings

Completed 2-year certification program in Spiritual Direction at theological seminary

Led Spiritual Direction workshops and retreats for church staff and lay leaders

Offered Spiritual Guidance services to seminary students and faculty members

Developed Spiritual Companioning programs for young adults in faith transition

Typical job title: "Spiritual Directors"

Also try searching for:

Spiritual Guide Soul Care Provider Spiritual Companion Spiritual Formation Director Spiritual Mentor Spiritual Counselor Faith Formation Director

Where to Find Spiritual Directors

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex spiritual crises in your direction practice?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate extensive experience in crisis management, clear boundaries between spiritual direction and therapy, and established referral networks with mental health professionals when needed.

Q: Describe your approach to training new spiritual directors.

Expected Answer: Should show ability to develop training programs, mentor new directors, and articulate clear methodology for spiritual direction practice while respecting various faith traditions.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you maintain boundaries in spiritual direction relationships?

Expected Answer: Should explain professional boundaries, confidentiality practices, and the difference between spiritual direction and other helping professions like counseling or therapy.

Q: What is your approach to interfaith spiritual direction?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate respect for different faith traditions, ability to work with diverse beliefs, and clear understanding of their own role as a spiritual companion.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between spiritual direction and pastoral counseling?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that spiritual direction focuses on one's relationship with God and spiritual journey, while pastoral counseling deals more with problem-solving and personal issues.

Q: How do you prepare for a spiritual direction session?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic preparation practices like prayer, reviewing notes, creating a welcoming space, and maintaining appropriate documentation.