Emmaus Society of Spiritual Directors
A community of support dedicated to the art of spiritual companioning and soulful listening.
Journey in Community
Sacred Attention. Shared Journey.
Spiritual direction is the art of holy listening; a space to slow down and attend to the movement of God. The Emmaus Society of Spiritual Directors (ESSD) is a Christ-centered community where directors find the same soul care they offer to others. We believe this ministry is not a solo endeavor, but a shared walk toward wholeness.
ESSD offers a place where directors can tend their own interior lives, engage in ongoing formation, and remain grounded in ethical and prayerful practice. Through fellowship, supervision, and shared learning, we seek to nurture directors who listen deeply, discern wisely, and companion others with reverence, compassion, and hope in Christ.
Membership Benefits
Being part of the Emmaus Society of Spiritual Directors is more than a professional affiliation; it is a sacred space for nurturing your own soul while supporting others in theirs.
Membership offers connection, encouragement, and formation within a Christ-centered community of spiritual directors who share a commitment to faithful listening and ethical practice.
01 Deep Community
Gather with fellow spiritual directors for fellowship, reflection, and prayer
02 Spiritual Renewal
Participate in retreats and other formative experiences designed to renew your spirit
03 Guided Supervision
Engage in facilitated group supervision and ongoing support for your practice
04 Professional Connections
Access resources, referrals, and ethical guidance while contributing to and learning from our collective blogs, newsletters, and events.
05 Vocational Growth
Grow in your capacity to nurture others and yourself as a companion of souls in Christ.
Our Commitments
As members of the Emmaus Society of Spiritual Directors, we embrace a shared calling to nurture souls—both those we accompany and our own. Spiritual direction is a ministry of sacred listening, and in offering this gift to others, we recognize the need for ongoing care, reflection, and guidance in our own lives.
We commit to practices that sustain and deepen our capacity to serve faithfully:
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Members have completed a recognized spiritual direction training program of at least 30 contact hours, including both teaching and supervised spiritual direction, or have at least five years of recognized spiritual direction ministry, supported by a pastoral or professional reference.
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We agree with the Emmaus Statement of Faith, Statement of Values, and Ethical Standards.
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Members remain active and in good standing in their denomination or faith community, honoring the broader body of Christ in which we serve.
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We participate in at least one continuing education opportunity each year—retreats, seminars, or other formative experiences—to deepen our understanding and care for those we accompany.
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We engage in regular supervision, individually or in facilitated groups, attending to our interior life, reflecting on our practice, and receiving encouragement, guidance, and accountability from trusted companions.
Through these commitments, we cultivate sacred spaces where God can be heard, hearts can be nurtured, and souls—including our own—can flourish. Membership in ESSD is both an invitation and a responsibility: to remain attentive, prayerful, and faithful in the sacred work entrusted to us.
WHAT OUR MEMBERS SAY
The Emmaus Society for Spiritual Directors (ESSD) has opened up my life in so many ways. It’s had a powerful impact on me by being able to meet regularly with other spiritual directors. In a ministry that could feel somewhat solitary, ESSD creates a space for community, mutual support and growth, the value of which cannot be overestimated.
ELLEN MCCLELLAND
ESSD has opened my life in unexpected and life-giving ways. Through our monthly Soul Care meetings, I gather with other spiritual directors to share wisdom, reflect on our practice, and pray. It refreshes my soul! Being part of ESSD strengthens and encourages me, reminding m that I do not do this sacred work alone.
SHANNON LEADBEATER
The School showed me the power of learning in community. I could grow at my own pace and embrace the journey without fear of not being ‘advanced enough.’ Through this formation, I’ve gained confidence, joy, and the assurance that God is with me in my ministry.
DAN ARMISHAW
Membership
Membership in the Emmaus Society of Spiritual Directors is an invitation to walk together with fellow spiritual directors, to nurture your own soul, and to faithfully companion others in Christ. Being part of ESSD means joining a community that supports, encourages, and sustains those called to this sacred ministry.
We warmly invite you to join the Emmaus Society of Spiritual Directors. Membership is an opportunity to walk in community with fellow spiritual directors, receive ongoing support and formation, and faithfully serve in the ministry of nurturing souls. Please choose the application option that matches your preferred method of payment.
Canada Only
Our Membership Tiers (Annual Fee)
$60
General
Registration
$50
ESSD Graduates
$25
Current Emmaus Students
Emmaus Certificate graduates receive their first year free
PATHWAYS FOR GROWTH
Deepen Your Vocation
Whether you are discerning a call to spiritual direction or an experienced practitioner, we offer structured, Christ-centered pathways of grounded in prayer, Scripture, and attentive listening to God’s movement in life.
Our programs are designed to equip you with both the practical skills and the spiritual depth needed to accompany others faithfully.
CERTIFICATE IN SPIRITUAL DIRECTION
This foundational program provides comprehensive formation in Christian spiritual direction, including teaching, supervised practice, and opportunities for reflection and discernment.
ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN SPIRITUAL DIRECTION
For those who have already completed foundational training and wish to deepen their practice, the Advanced Certificate offers further formation in supervision, advanced skills, and ongoing spiritual development.
SUPERVISION
We are developing training for those who supervise spiritual directors—equipping experienced directors to guide, support, and nurture others in this ministry. If you are interested in learning more or helping shape this program, we would love to connect with you.
Still have questions?
Connect with us.
You’re welcome to reach out with any questions. We’re always glad to connect with you on your journey!