spiritual direction

I'm in Dublin this weekend on the second of fourteen weekends (a two year commitment) with the Irish Jesuits at Manresa House. I've begun a diploma course in the ancient practice of Spiritual Direction. That's not usually the favoured title, but generally the working one. Many people prefer spiritual accompaniment or even Soul Friendship ('Anam Cara' in Irish). The Jesuits seem to have a reputation for this 'art' of walking with others in their journey toward Christ and helping them discern how the Lord is speaking to them. The central focus in all of this is a personal relationship/friendship with Jesus. They also seem to be respected as highly educated people (some study for 14 years to become ordained) who engage with culture in order to be a catalyst for Christ in the world. I like all of it. The Irish Jesuits have founded a web site called Sacred Space which is an opportunity for individuals to spend 15 minutes a day with the Lord reflecting on their lives and the Scriptures. I have been enriched through it often and so have others - as many as hits to the site since 1999. I am already really enjoying the experience of being here. My one prayer going into this has been 'God please challenge me to grow in my relationship with you through this course'. I am already sensing that occurring. I am one of three Protestants in a group of 24 and the only one in our smaller group of 12. I count myself privileged to be on such a high learning curve about all things Catholic, but I do feel somewhat of an outsider because of a slightly different vocabulary and different practices. At any rate, I know I will grow through this course and I look forward to being better equipped at the end of it to carry out my passion, "to help people have a better understanding of and a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ".