What is interspirituality?
A simplified definition is that there are universal truths underlying all spiritual paths. Wayne Teasdale first used the term to describe the willingness to explore ultimate, spiritual, mystical experiences across all wisdom traditions. Those traditions include agnostics, non-theists and atheists, as well as folks who practice within a religious tradition, and those whose spirituality isn’t so easily named. The emphasis is on experiencing wisdom practices that are meaningful.
A lengthier definition comes from Joan Borysenko:
While different faiths developed through specific prisms of culture and contexts in space and time, there are universal spiritual principles which are foundational to all of them. Interspirituality is the common ground, where all of the wisdom traditions meet. Interspirituality is committed to finding the spirituality both within and beyond religion. What ties us together is a shared desire to connect with the Ground of Being in a way that fully respects our differences. The challenge is to embody what is most true and real for us without seeking to convince or convert others. Our intention is to delve deeply into the perennial interspiritual philosophy of guidance and discernment so that we may become more fully present and capable of clear, compassionate action in the world.
The bottom line is that there is no one right way to be spiritual. Certain experiences will be meaningful to some and others will find different practices significant. The journey is to find those deeper, direct experiences of the sacred, wherever they are to be found, that generate meaning for you and deepen your life experience.
What is companioning?
As an Interspiritual Companion I provide a safe, non-judgmental and accepting space for you to be yourself and to tell your stories, to be really seen, to experience deep listening. When we feel deeply heard we become aware of our own inner voice. In that sacred space, you can move closer to what gives meaning to your life, uncover answers to what has had you stuck, discover a path through a difficult life experience, free the wild possibilities within you, or transform your way of being in the world. We are all faced with that journey in our lives and it’s easier to take it with a supportive companion. I’ll accompany you on your journey of self-discovery, not by directing but by listening, noticing and reflecting back so that you can discover who you can be.
Currently the terms spiritual companioning and spiritual direction are being used to describe a similar process. Spiritual direction is an ancient contemplative tradition of companionship and guidance that has been practiced for centuries by people from many religious traditions. The modern practice of companioning continues the tradition of companionship but not that of guidance. Companions hold space for personal discovery rather than guide the process.
Here are links to learn more:
Spiritual Directors International Can Spiritual Directors Help?
I would say this group has been critical to helping me feel connected during the pandemic - not just to church, but to the wider world and to life. I work from home and find I rarely have reason to leave the house. It's all too easy to fall into a routine of get up, work, watch a show, fall asleep, get up and do it again...and again...and again. This group keeps me connected and gives me the opportunity to step beyond the mundane and consider larger questions around identity, community, spirituality and life. More importantly, I have gotten to know some incredible people that I might never have known otherwise. Because of the nature of the discussions, I feel like we have really forged real connections - even over Zoom. It's rare to have the chance to open up and share ourselves so vulnerably, and I treasure the time we have together each month. ~LC
