A Dynamic and Vital Connection
- Nick Helm
- Nov 7, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 1
Spiritual Direction Forum 2025 - 8 November
Our online day conference explored the interplay of theology, spirituality and spiritual direction and how this is an integral part of Christian spiritual direction.
The day included two presentations, time for reflection and group work.
You can view the presentations and the slides here. Also, is a summary of the rich conversation that these presentations stimulated.
Theology, Spirituality and Spiritual Direction
Dr Susanne Carlsson gave a presentation on the relationship and interaction of spirituality, theology and spiritual direction.
Spiritual Direction as practical theology
Julie Dunstan gave a presentation on spiritual direction as a form of practical theology drawing upon the Emmaus Road Story.
Summary of Chat
This is an AI summary (Chat GPT) of an edited chat transcript from the Spiritual Direction Forum Online Conference titled “A Dynamic and Vital Connection: Theology, Spirituality and Spiritual Direction.” The edit removed chat entries that did not related to the content of the event (eg ‘sorry I need to leave now’) It contained participants’ reflections and discussions on how theology and spirituality interact within the practice of spiritual direction.
Summary of Key Themes
The “Floor, Rug, and Chair” Metaphor
Used to explore theological grounding:
Floor = normative theology (foundational beliefs)
Rug = formal theology (traditions and frameworks)
Chair = what spiritual direction is and how it is practiced
Many reflected on how these layers shift and evolve, suggesting theology and practice are dynamic and relational.
The image invited reflection on personal and institutional theology, with metaphors of patched rugs, moving carpets, and floor maintenance symbolising growth, repair, and change.
Integration of Theology, Spirituality, and Practice
Spiritual direction was seen as practical theology—a lived theology emerging from experience rather than abstract doctrine.
Several emphasised incarnational, relational, and contextual theology, aligning with Ignatian and contemplative traditions.
Participants valued the four theological voices (normative, formal, espoused, and operant) as tools for reflection.
Dynamics in the Director–Directee Relationship
Recognising that director and directee may “sit on different rugs” (different theological or cultural assumptions).
The need for humility, openness, and attentive listening to each person’s unique experience of God.
Some noted the role of language, culture, and vulnerability in spiritual direction.
Reflections on Theological Growth
Many found theology less intimidating and more accessible, seeing it as a living, evolving process rather than academic theory.
Themes of reconstruction, hospitality, trust, and mystery emerged.
Participants described the day as both affirming and challenging, prompting deeper awareness of their theological grounding and practice.
God’s Presence and Theological Imagery
Early discussion critiqued a diagram that depicted God as separate or “above,” seen as an Enlightenment-influenced image.
Participants proposed alternative metaphors: God as air, light, breath (ruach), or the space itself, expressing a more incarnational and immanent theology.
Shared Resources
Resources shared
The True Wilderness by H.A. Williams,
Fully Human Fully Divine by Michael Casey
Daniel Bonnell’s Pondering Angels #2 https://bonnellart.com
The Life of RS Thomas - 'The Man Who Went Into the West' by Byron Rogers
Disabled Christ Exhibition by Rachel Holdforth https://www.wobblygoose.com
A new enquirer / catechetical course based on Ignatian Spirituality (and the pastoral cycle from Freire etc) https://www.lovejoypeacecourse.com/
Soul Friendship: a practical theology approach to SD by Nigel Rooms and Adrian Chatfield. https://canterburypress.hymnsam.co.uk/books/9781786221568/soul-friendship
Appreciation
Attendees expressed gratitude for the clarity and richness of the presentations (notably from Susanne and Julie).
The event concluded with expressions of inspiration, gratitude, and a sense of communal learning.
Overall summary: The chat captures a rich, reflective conversation exploring how theology underpins and interacts with spiritual direction. Using imaginative metaphors (floorboards, rugs, chairs), participants articulated theology as lived experience—fluid, relational, and grounded in divine presence within everyday life. The conference fostered theological awareness, practical insight, and a deepened sense of shared spiritual journey.
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