The practice of spiritual direction in the light of the ‟Diary” of St. Faustyna Kowalska Cover Image

Praktyka kierownictwa duchowego w świetle „Dzienniczka” św. Faustyny Kowalskiej
The practice of spiritual direction in the light of the ‟Diary” of St. Faustyna Kowalska

Author(s): Monika Szulc
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion
Published by: Wyższe Seminarium Duchowne Diecezji Elbląskiej w Elblągu
Keywords: spiritual direction; confession; Faustina Kowalska; Michał Sopoćko; Józef Andrasz; spiritual life; spiritual development

Summary/Abstract: Spiritual direction plays a significant role in Christian formation. Sister Faustina frequently refers to this service in her "Diary". He not only points to the importance of spiritual direction in spiritual development, but also describes his experience by referring to the universal need for such service to souls striving for perfection. This article presents the practice of spiritual direction in the life of the Mystic. It presents short biographies of Sister Faustina’s spiritual directors – Józef Andrasz and Bl. Michał Sopoćko. In addition, the features required by spiritual directors were discussed, and an example of the relationship between St. Faustina and her directors was indicated. The main features of a spiritual director are: theological competence, personal spiritual experience, and the perfection of the Christian life. The last point describes the qualities required of a person receiving spiritual direction. Obedience, honesty and trust are emphasized here. St. Faustina is pointed as a person who makes perfect use of spiritual direction.

  • Issue Year: 2022
  • Issue No: 23
  • Page Range: 355-369
  • Page Count: 15
  • Language: Polish