Spiritual Direction Certification

Spiritual direction is the practice of holy listening to the presence of God in others' lives within a space of deep belonging. A spiritual director uses prayer, silence and attentive listening to help individuals hear the one true director: the Holy Spirit.

Become a Certified Spiritual Director

This 18-month long program features:

• Spiritual Community - supportive small peer groups with a mentor
• Contemplative practices and worship
• In-person three and half day intensives twice a year at a retreat setting
• Self-paced learning and practice in home setting

The primary purpose of our program is to train people who feel called to provide spiritual guidance and companionship for others, supporting people as they discern God’s movement in their lives. However, those who are interested in deepening their own spiritual practices and contemplative life are also welcome.

Our program is grounded in the Trinitarian faith of the Christian tradition. We explore contemplative practices from the breadth of the ecumenical history of the church. The program emphasizes learning the art of spiritual direction through varied forms of prayerful listening practices. 

How to Apply

To be considered for the program, please apply by submitting a non-degree application for admission.  The application includes a personal essay on your calling into spiritual direction and two letters of recommendation. We suggest a faith leader or spiritual director, and a personal or professional contact who knows you well.

Completed applications are due by September 1. Confirmed students will receive additional program information including access to online program resources. Generally 18 students are admitted into each cohort.

Program Overview

The 18-month certification program is designed to train those with a vocation to spiritual direction and to develop the specific skills required for this practice. Through in-person intensives and online instruction, students are equipped with the skills and tools to deepen their spiritual life through contemplative practices. Students who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate in spiritual direction.

The program consists of four in-person intensives in February and August of each program year. Students are able to focus, engage with faculty and staff, build relationships with classmates, participate in daily workshops, all while taking in the breathtaking views at Lutheridge Camp and Conference Center in Arden, North Carolina during their three and half day intensives.

Upcoming Intensive Dates

• Intensive 1 - February 11-14, 2026
• Intensive 2 - August 5-8, 2026
• Intensive 3 - Early February 2027
• Intensive 4 - Early August 2027 (Commissioning service on the last day)

Online Participation

Students complete most certification requirements in their own home setting. Online modules provide reading and learning activities that students can pursue at their own pace. Once a month, students will meet online with their mentor and peer group for additional practice of spiritual direction. Students are expected to meet with their spiritual director monthly during the program and engage in spiritual practices. Once equipped with the basic skills, students will spend the second half of the program practicing spiritual direction with a volunteer “directee” of their choosing.

For more information about the program, please contact Rev. Dr. Melanie Dobson at melanie.dobson@lr.edu or 828.616.5062.