Spiritual Direction in the Wesleyan-Holiness Movement

Abstract

Though the term “spiritual direction” is not a common part of the vocabulary of the Wesleyan-Holiness people, the goals of spiritual direction form the core of their spiritual quest. Avoiding “direction” for fear of spiritual abuse, the Wesleyan-Holiness people seek to help each other toward Christian perfection by way of face-to-face groups, spiritual companioning, family worship, covenant groups, and faith mentoring. These specific structures and practices, along with observance of the personal spiritual disciplines and the disciplines of service, are primarily rooted in the heritage of the Wesleyan revival in 18th-century England and secondarily in the American Holiness Movement of the 19th century. Indirect indicators associated with spiritual maturity are described and comparisons between psychotherapy and spiritual guidance are made.