Common Questions
Honest answers about spiritual direction and the prayer groups.
Spiritual direction
What is spiritual direction?
A spiritual director helps you notice where God has been showing up in your everyday and interior life. It is a form of “holy listening” that has been part of Christian life since the desert mothers and fathers. In spiritual direction there are three involved: the seeker, the Holy Spirit and the director.
Is spiritual direction the same as therapy?
No. A spiritual director does not offer psychological counseling, psychotherapy, solve problems nor give advice. They are a companion on the journey of the directee. If you are carrying something that needs a counselor or doctor, Robin will gladly help you think about finding one. Many people see both.
Do I need to be Catholic?
No. Robin is a practicing Catholic, formed in the Ignatian tradition, and she accompanies people of every Christian background, of other faiths, or of none, who want to notice God more in their lives. Direction follows your own relationship with God. She will never ask you to adopt her beliefs.
How often do we meet, and for how long?
Most people meet once a month for 50 minutes, online by video call.
Does Robin charge for spiritual direction?
No. Spiritual direction and the prayer groups are offered freely, as part of Robin's ministry.
What preparation is needed?
Preparation will be discussed with you at the first meeting and is specific to each person, with the caveat that spiritual direction is not something that a directee just “shows up” to.
Is it confidential?
What you share in direction stays between you and Robin. The only exceptions are those the law requires, such as a risk of serious harm to you or someone else, or the abuse of a child or vulnerable adult. Because sessions happen online and by email, no electronic tool is perfectly private. Robin never records sessions.
How do I begin?
A first conversation is simply a chance to meet and see together whether direction feels right. There's no obligation. Write to Robin through the contact page or at robin@in-sacred-space.com. She replies within 48 business hours.
Prayer groups
What are the prayer groups?
Small groups that meet online to pray together. Holy Listening gathers to share and listen for where God showed up in the last 24 hours or so. Lectio Divina prays slowly with a short passage of Scripture. Both are led by Robin.
Is what I share in a group kept private?
Each group keeps a simple covenant: what is shared in the circle stays in the circle. Robin never refers in a group to anything shared in one-to-one direction.
Can I start a group with people I know?
Yes. If you have others who want to join, Robin will gladly help you start a group. Write to her at robin@in-sacred-space.com.
What time zone are the dates in?
All dates and times are shown in Eastern Time (ET).