While there are many facets to spiritual direction, it mainly involves one specially trained individual helping another Christian find a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. The director offers guidance in a variety of ways including prayer, meditation, reading of the scriptures, spiritual writings, taking part in the Church's liturgical life, and personal study.

Henri Nouwen wrote many books on spiritual life and spiritual direction. In describing a spiritual director, he said, " A block of marble cannot carve itself, it needs a sculptor. An athlete needs a personal trainer or coach. Likewise, a person of faith will certainly benefit from a spiritual director… A spiritual director is not a counselor, a therapist, or an analyst, but a mature fellow Christian to whom we choose to be accountable for living our spiritual life and from whom we can expect prayerful support in our constant struggle to discern God's activity. A spiritual director can be called a "soul friend" or a "spiritual friend" whom we trust to offer wisdom and guidance".

St. James has not yet set up a formal spiritual direction program; however, if you are interested in finding a spiritual director, or wish to learn more about spiritual direction, arrangements can be made to help you by calling Fr. Clif Gardner.