Gay Street United Methodist Church
18 North Gay Street, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050
www.gaystreetumc.org

These are some suggested readings for your spiritual journey:

“Is Spiritual Direction Right For You?” Kathleen Fischer

May, Gerald G. “The Awakened Heart: Opening Yourself to the Love You Need”
1991 San Francisco: Harper Collins.

William A. Barry, “Paying Attention to God: Discernment in Prayer”
1990 Notre Dame: Ave Maria Press.

Tilden Edwards, “Spiritual Director, Spiritual Companion: Guide to Tending the Soul”
2001 Mahwah NJ: Ave Maria Press.

Thomas N. Hart “The Art of Christian Listening”
1980 New York: Ave Maria Press.

Gay Street United Methodist Church in Mount Vernon, of the Three Rivers District, is pleased to announce a new ministry outreach, “Hope Springs: Ministries for the Journey.” “Hope Springs” offers a ministry of spiritual companionship called spiritual direction. Our primary focus is “ministering to ministers” in the East Ohio Conference. Many of our pastors and their families feel alone, without someone to share in significant spiritual conversation, to explore questions and fears, highs and lows, or to share in prayer.

http://www.eocumc.com/enews/enews.htm

This spiritual direction ministry introduction was sent February 15 2007 to the East Ohio Conference and neighboring Districts:

We are pleased to announce a new ministry outreach offered through the sponsorship of

Gay Street United Methodist Church in Mount Vernon, of the Three Rivers District.

Hope Springs: Ministries for the Journey offers a ministry of spiritual companionship called spiritual direction. Our primary focus is “ministering to ministers” in the East Ohio Conference. Many persons feel alone, without someone to share in significant spiritual conversation, to explore questions and fears, highs and lows, or to share in prayer. We seek to offer spiritual companionship to bridge that gap.

What is Spiritual Direction?

• it is a gentle listening ministry for those seeking a deeper relationship with God
• it is a confidential relationship between the individual, the companion and God, who is the real spiritual director in this relationship
• it is a place for prayer, hope and discernment of God’s presence in life
• it is NOT psychological counseling or conflict resolution

What happens in spiritual direction?

• An initial interview is arranged, and if both agree, further meetings are set up.
• Meetings usually occur once per month.
• Focus is on discernment and prayer, to discover how and where God is working in one’s life. You bring your joys and concerns, questions and life issues.
• Spiritual direction is a historically proactive and holistic approach.
• Your session is completely private and confidential.
• A suggested donation will support outreach to help East Ohio pastors and families.