Welcome to Tim Leahy Spiritual Direction
In Spiritual Direction, we hold space and time for a person to consider and talk about their experience of God (the divine, the sacred, the holy...) in their life. We understand that at times this can include the perceived absence of God. In doing this, we look to deepen and strengthen their relationship with God contributing to their spiritual growth.
About Tim Leahy
Tim is a broad based, open and affirming Christian originally raised in the Catholic Church. He has been active at both the UCC Congregational Church and Holy Redeemer Immaculate Conception churches in Newburyport and West Newbury, MA. He was drawn to Spiritual Direction because of several life experiences through which he came to understand that many people have a desire, but no obvious outlet for developing the spiritual part of their lives. This includes but is not limited to people who describe themselves as Spiritual but not Religious.
Tell me more...
What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual Direction is meant to be a time and place where someone can discuss their experience of God (the divine, sacred, holy...) in their life. Our lives are so busy and the world is so complex. We can tend to miss or ignore or explain away our (potential) experiences and encounters with God. Spiritual Direction is for people who want to be intentional about their relationship with God. A good first step is "noticing" when God shows up in our life, and conversely wondering why God sometimes seems "missing in action."
A word on terminology...
One of the first things we do in Spiritual Direction is to find out what words and language an individual is most comfortable with in spiritual discussions. Some people are comfortable with traditional Christian terminology. Some prefer different language. In a closely related matter, early on we typically talk about one's "Image of God" or their perception and understanding of the divine, sacred, or holy.
Do you only work with Catholics or other Christians?
No. Although my personal spirituality is founded in a broad based, open and affirming Christianity, I strongly believe that the Creator has made itself known to humanity in many different ways throughout history. I have a great respect for other faith traditions. Much as I learn and grow while working with my fellow Christians, I welcome the opportunity to learn and grow even more working with people from other faith traditions.
Please be more specific. Will you really be giving me "Direction"?
Much as it is sometimes easier to try to "apprehend" God by saying what God is not (the Via Negativa), it's sometime useful to explain that Spiritual Direction is typically not "direction" as we would normally understand it. Frequently we use the term "spiritual companioning", but that's a bit of a mouthful itself. At it's best, Spiritual Direction is a conversation where the director primarily listens and helps make space for the participation and workings of the Holy Spirit.
Client Stories
"I greatly appreciate the time I spend in spiritual direction with Tim most simply becasue he is the only one I talk to about 'this stuff'."
WD
"The time I spend in conversation with Tim helps me recognize and remain aware of the presence of God in my daily life...some of the most important time I spend each month."
KS
"My husband and I are in a time of transition after a life of raising our children and dealing with ongoing health challenges. We so appreciate the peaceful space Tim helps create for us each month to spend time with God.
K&S
