The Diocese of Sheffield coordinates a local network of Spiritual Accompaniers from different Christian traditions. Anyone can ask for spiritual accompaniment, whether you belong to a church or not.
We value equality, diversity, and inclusion. We especially welcome people with disabilities and anyone from underrepresented groups. We are working to make spiritual accompaniment accessible to everyone.
These webpages are for people who are:
- Looking for a Spiritual Accompanier
- Exploring becoming a Spiritual Accompanier
- Existing Authorised Spiritual Accompaniers
If you would like more general information, please visit our spirituality page.
Looking for a Spiritual Accompanier
Many Christians find that spiritual accompaniment helps them grow in their relationship with God and understand themselves better.
A Spiritual Accompanier offers a safe and supportive space to talk about your faith and spiritual life. They listen carefully and ask thoughtful questions to help you reflect on your experiences, beliefs, and relationship with God.
Most people meet with their accompanier for about one hour every six weeks. You can stop at any time if you decide it is not right for you.
For more information, watch our short two-minute video. (You may need to turn on the sound).
Finding Spiritual Accompaniment document
Apply for Spiritual Accompaniment – complete form below
More information
You may find these resources helpful:
- A Personal Rule of Life, which many Christians use to support their spiritual growth.
- The Retreat Association which provides information about spiritual accompaniment and retreats.
- Helm, Nick and Hoare, Liz (2019), Seeking Spiritual Direction: How to Find Support for Your Spiritual Life. Buy Borrow
Exploring becoming a Spiritual Accompanier
Trained and approved Spiritual Accompaniers play a key role in supporting spiritual wellbeing (especially of those in church leadership).
Accompanier Role Description and Person Specification
Please contact Julian for informal enquiries, or apply to train (see below).
Training
We offer training for people who feel called to this ministry. Training takes place over two years and includes two six-month courses:
If you have already completed the above training, you are eligible to complete the application form to become a Spiritual Accompanier:
Spiritual Accompanier Full Application Form
Safeguarding
The Diocese of Sheffield is committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All Spiritual Accompaniers are expected to share this commitment. Applicants will go through our safer recruitment process which includes Pre-Authorisation Checks
If you would like to discuss any part of this process, please contact Julian.
You may find these books helpful:.
Chatfield, Adrian and Rooms, Nigel (2019) Soul Friendship: A practical theology of spiritual direction. Norwich: Canterbury Press.
Guenther, Margaret (1995) Holy Listening: The art of spiritual direction. London: DLT. Borrow
Helm, Nick and Hoare, Liz (2019) Seeking Spiritual Direction: How to find support for your spiritual life. Cambridge: Grove Books Borrow
Mourant, Julie (2025) The Spiritual Director: Practising the charism of spiritual direction. London: Canterbury Press.
Pickering, Sue (2008) Spiritual Direction: A Practical Introduction. Norwich: Canterbury Press. Borrow
Woodwell, Anita (2008) On Holy Ground: Guided prayer – a handbook and practical companion. Norwich: Canterbury Press.