In spiritual accompaniment (sometimes called spiritual direction) you can meet with someone - a spiritual companion - to share your story, thoughts and reflections about your life and faith.
They will listen carefully to you. They will provide a space in which you can look at what is happening in your life and seek to recognize the presence of God.
You will meet together regularly - every 6-12 weeks, for about an hour.
Who is a spiritual companion?
A spiritual companion is someone who:
- listens
- can help you reflect deeply about your faith journey
- can help you reflect on your relationship with God
- does not seek to solve problems or give advice.
Spiritual companions have received specific training for this ministry - in spiritual accompaniment and safeguarding. They come from a wide range of ages and traditions. They may be lay people or ordained. It is important to find someone with whom you feel comfortable.
Who is spiritual accompaniment for?
Spiritual accompaniment is open to everyone. There are no expectations or special requirements, just a readiness to share your story with another person and an openness to God.
Is there a charge for spiritual accompaniment ?
Spiritual companions in our diocese do not charge.
How do I find a spiritual companion ?
The Diocese of Chester has a list of people who offer spiritual accompaniment, and will support you in choosing one, if you wish. For a copy of the list, or to talk through with someone the process of choosing one, please email ministry@chester.anglican.org
Retreats
Retreats are for ordinary people at any time in their lives. There are no expectations on anyone going on retreat and you don't need to be a churchgoer.
Retreats offer the opportunity to step aside from life to rest and just 'be' in a welcoming, peaceful place. They can be a real treat, giving time for prayer, reflection and recovery. Jesus gave himself times of retreat and prayer away from others. Retreats are part of the Sabbath provision.
Some retreats are individually guided, taking place in the midst of daily life, or a parish quiet day.
There are many retreat houses throughout the country, including Foxhill near Frodsham, which has its own programme of retreats. Retreat houses have a rich tradition of hospitality and welcome.
Parish clergy are happy to advise about retreats. There is further information about retreats at the Retreat Association website.
- Saint Beuno’s Ignatian Spirituality Centre
- Gladstone's Library, Hawarden
- Oblate Retreat Centre
- Whalley Abbey
- Villa Santa Tecla, Assisi, Italy
- Launde Abbey
Ios Olivos Christian Art & Spirituality Retreat Centre is an alternative centre based in the Sierra Nevada national Park in Spain.