The Practice of Spiritual Direction

Jesuit priests William A. Barry and William J. Connolly see the work of spiritual direction as helping people to develop their relationship with God. And although Christianity dates back two millennia, they do not hesitate to incorporate modern science, including psychotherapy, in their work. The Practice of Spiritual Direction, a classic text that has been revised and updated by the authors, shows that Barry and Connolly have, in thinking and practice, absorbed the insights of modern psychotherapy, but have not been absorbed by them. This highly practical book reflects the authors’ experience at the Center for Religious Development in Cambridge, Massachusetts. William A. Barry, S.J. and William J. Connolly, S.J. were two of the six co-founders of the Center for Religious Development in Cambridge, Mass. in 1971. The Center was one of the first to offer a year-long specialized training in spiritual direction. This book is based on their experience at the Center for Religious Development and beyond. Both authors now reside at Campion Center, Weston, Mass.