Nebraska Synod ELCA

Seeking the Spirit Within:  The Nebraska Synod Institute for Spiritual Direction Formation was one of several initiatives created from a strategic planning process undertaken by the Nebraska Synod in 2006 which resulted in a primary conclusion that the root of Christ’s mission anywhere at any time is spiritual leadership. The program for training and certifying individuals as spiritual directors began in 2009.

The mission of Seeking the Spirit Within is:  We Seek the Spirit Within to prepare people for the ministry of Spiritual Direction.

“Spiritual Direction training through Seeking the Spirit Within is the best gift I have ever given myself.  I have always known about God, but through Seeking the Spirit Within I have come to know God.  I have always been able to talk to God, but through Seeking the Spirit Within I now have conversations with God.  My relationship with God is on a more personal level.  From the moment I sat down in the Opening Circle I felt right at home.  I grew within myself to find a place of peace and contentment.”

-Mary Mohl, Certified Spiritual Director

Spiritual directors who have been certified through our training program are helping to strengthen the spiritual leadership of our synod and its people in the following ways:

• Providing spiritual direction for rostered ministers, vicars, and lay people
• Facilitating annual guided retreats for Nebraska Synod adults
• Facilitating devotions and times of prayer for Nebraska Synod council meetings and assemblies
• Providing spiritual resources for congregations in transition
• Leading faith formation groups for adults in our congregations and for our faith formation program, Drinking From the Well
• Leading workshops on faith practices for various Nebraska Synod organizations

“In seminary I learned the “head knowledge” for pastoral ministry. Seeking the Spirit Within introduced me to the heart and depth of my faith and spiritual connection with God. Being a Spiritual Director has a significant impact on my pastoral ministry and personal spiritual practices as I have the privilege to travel with others on their faith journey.”

– Rev. Brad Meyer, Certified Spiritual Director

Financial donations are used to support the mission of Seeking the Spirit Within.