Spiritual Direction
Spiritual Direction
Or: A Companion for Edge Walkers
“Perhaps you are an edge walker too. Edge walkers occupy a thin space and are by definition a bit lonely. Most people inhabit the vast spaces on both sides of edges. But those of us called to the thresholds—the edges between—live in this thin space and recognize one another when we meet.” — Victoria Loorz, Church of the Wild
Across centuries and cultures, there have always been seekers.
Maybe you’re on the threshold of change, where everything you know is unraveling but you’re afraid to walk into the unknown. Maybe you feel the call of a creative vision, but you don’t know where to start. Or maybe in a chaotic, anxious age you just need a safe place to land and a friend for the journey.
If you find yourself walking the edges, Spiritual Direction might be for you.
What is Spiritual Direction?
Also known as Spiritual Companionship or Spiritual Care, this time-honored tradition is about making space to reflect on your life and cultivate your connections with God, yourself, and the world. In Spiritual Direction, we don’t build an action plan to crush your goals and fix your life. In fact, it might not feel like much is happening at all. Instead, you’ll find contemplative space, non-judgmental presence, compassionate listening, and a healthy mix of silence and questions. And you might be surprised by what you discover along the way.
About Me + My Practice
I’m Jen Yokel, a poet and spiritual director based in Fall River, MA. In June 2020, I completed my training and certification with Pax Center, where I learned about the history and practice of spiritual direction in the contemplative Christian tradition. Since then, it has been my joy to companion a number of folks through one on one virtual meetings.
I am especially passionate about supporting people as they navigate a faith shift, and I especially have a soft spot for artists at the intersections of creativity and faith. I also have a growing interest in trauma-supportive spiritual direction and eco-spirituality.
I am a practicing Christian who loves her local church and has big complicated feelings about American evangelicalism. ;) While this is the spiritual language I speak most fluently, I welcome folks from a range of experiences.
Finally, I’m a member of Spiritual Directors International and follow SDI’s Guidelines for Ethical Conduct.
“Listen to your life. See it for the fathomless mystery it is. In the boredom and pain of it, no less than in the excitement and gladness: touch, taste, smell your way to the holy and hidden heart of it, because in the last analysis all moments are key moments, and life itself is grace.” - Frederick Buechner
What to Expect
In most cases, we’ll meet for an hour once a month. You can expect a cozy, relaxed space to discuss anything you want regarding your faith experience and personal life. Moments of prayer, grounding exercises, and silence are all a regular part of my practice, but only as they feel safe and helpful for you. My role is to protect this time for your exploration, ask you questions, and listen. All you have to bring is yourself.
My practice is supported through the generosity of my directees. I currently work on a sliding scale, with a suggested rate of $40 - $60 per session. Please know my desire is that money never be a barrier to receiving spiritual direction. Feel free to ask about pay-what-you-can options. (Or as you’re able, consider choosing a higher rate to pay it forward.) Thank you for supporting my ministry and continuing education!
Excited? Curious? Let’s Talk!
If you’d like to explore spiritual direction, I’d love to meet you! Email me to introduce yourself and set up a free introductory meeting — no obligation to continue or gross sales-y vibes, I promise. 💛