Spiritual Direction in Scotland

Hello friends and family, Ian here! I'm in the process of raising support for a program in Scotland to study under my spiritual director, Howard, at his beautiful retreat center!

Spiritual direction has been a genuine blessing and balm to me this past year. I'm learning a lot from Howard about prayer and how to cultivate intimacy with Jesus through the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Ignatian spirituality employs the imagination as a portal through which God can console the desolate places in our souls. I've experienced truly surprising and impactful encounters with God through these exercises (ask me about them sometime!) and I believe that the daily immersion of studying with Howard will help me more holistically integrate these contemplative rhythms into my life (and hopefully, by extension, bless others!). I also believe this program is a healthy next step in my vocational discernment as I consider becoming a Christian counselor.

The class lasts from July 28th until August 18th and then I'll be staying and helping out at the retreat center until September 1st, when Max and Madeleine Pointner arrive at St. Andrews. I'll visit with them through September 4th and then return to the States! There are multiple ways you can support me in this adventure (see the video for full details), but on the financial front, if I can raise $3000, I will go. And if I can raise $4000, all of my costs will be covered. Thank you for considering supporting me in this exciting next step!

And a huge thank you to my friend Paul Vermeesch for helping me put together this video!