St Andrews Church, Romford

"Thou hast made us for thyself
and our hearts are restless 'till they find their rest in thee"
- S. Augustine

Christianity Spirituality is the quest for a fulfilled and authentic life, that involves taking the beliefs and values of our Faith and weaving them into the fabric of our lives so that they "animate," provide the "breath" and "spirit" and "fire" for our lives.

Spirituality is not the preserve of a few, chosen, holy, unique individuals. It is the means by which we all find our meaning and purpose in life. It is our response to the Other so that we are taken beyond ourselves and grow into our full potential, which is holiness.

"The glory of God is Man, fully alive,
and the glory of Man made in the image of God
is the vision of God" (S. Irenaeus)and possessing an affinity to him
in virtue of which he may come to know him,
to obey him, to love him and, in the end, to see him"
- Bishop Michael Ramsey

Prayer is not a matter of thinking a great deal, but of loving a great deal - S. Theresa of Avila

Prayer is not a thing we do, it is a thing we can become when the heart is filled with waiting and longing for a clearer vision and a readier understanding.
- W.H.Vanstone: 'Love's Endeavour, Love's Expense

"Worship is not only a matter of 'saying prayers': it is a whole way of conducting one's life"
- Bp. Wilfred Weston

As we all have a 'spiritual diension' to our lives it is not difficult to develop. The desire to be open to the 'Other' and to reach out, lovingly, to the mystery of Life is the best start. Most of us need to learn how to live more reflectively and not to rush through life without realising the wonder of which we are part. Try to set aside moments - times - when you can focus on something other than yourself - nature, art, humanity itself are all good places to begin the process. Reflection on the Scriptures and other holy writings ias important, too.

This ministry is available to anyone who wants to grow as a human being before God. Most people knowthe benefit of having someone to talk with, in confidence. People who offer this ministry (usually called a 'Spiritual Director') do not have the answers, nor give solutions or talk about themselves. But the Director does listen quietly, asks open, sometimes probing questions and tries to help you see your circumstance from a different view. The end result (hopefully) is that you have a greater sense of integration in your life. Having a space to listen to God in you difficulties and circumstances builds a closer relationship with God and helps you pray and talk to God with ease.

For more information as to how to find a Spiritual Director, contact francis.jon@btopenworld.com or explore the Essex and East London Spirituality Website: www.spiritual-direction-in-essex.org