Spiritual Direction: A Calling and a Practice

Welcome to the St Francis Spiritual Direction Formation home page. Recognised by the Australian Ecumenical Council for Spiritual Direction (AECSD), this program helps you explore and deepen your calling to the ministry of Spiritual Direction.

What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual Direction is a conversation between two believers about life in the light of faith. Some call it Companioning, highlighting the absence of hierarchy and the presence of mutual respect. People of faith often seek a companion who will journey with them, helping them notice the action of God in their daily experiences. Responding to these insights can deepen a person’s relationship with God and their community.

Where do we encounter God?
How might the ordinary—and the not-so-ordinary—moments of life reveal God to us? In the joy of a child’s laughter, the quiet of early morning prayer, the grief of loss, the uncertainty of a medical diagnosis, or the wonder of creation on a bushwalk. Even in times of doubt or unexpected kindness, God may be present, inviting us to listen and discover grace in every experience.

About the Programs

  • Located on the St Francis Theological College campus in Milton, Brisbane

  • An initiative of the Anglican Church Southern Queensland

  • Part of the Ministry Education Commission, which supports theological education, lay formation, vocational discernment, and Christian spirituality

Our Approach

Spiritual Direction is a charism and a call of God. Through this program, you will:

  • Discern your own calling

  • Develop your practice alongside experienced Spiritual Directors

  • Learn through the contemplative evocative model—a way of companioning others that integrates a contemplative stance in daily life and spiritual conversation

Keep reading to find out more about our courses…

Courses Offered

We offer two pathways within the Spiritual Direction Formation Program:

St Francis College also offers a Graduate Diploma of Spiritual Direction with the University of Divinity and is a parttime four-year formation program.

Brochures

The Art of Contemplative listening
Spiritual Direction Formation program

Next Steps

Whether you’re ready to begin or simply exploring, we’re here to support you.

You can:

  • Browse our course brochures (see above) for detailed information

  • Reach out to us with your questions or to talk about what feels right for you

Spiritual Direction is a journey of discernment, so take your time and keep reading to learn more about our courses.

Important Dates

Key Dates 2026 Semester One Semester Two
St Francis Spiritual Direction Formation Program Applications Friday January 23 Friday June 19
Applications Close Friday February 13 Friday July 17
Combined Practicum Day Tuesday February 24 Tuesday July 28
Intensive Monday–Wednesday
March 9–11		 Monday–Wednesday
September 28–30

By subscribing I consent to my personal information being collected, used, disclosed, and stored in accordance with the Privacy Collection Statement.

We acknowledge all First Peoples of the land on which live, walk and work. We honour them and their Ancestors for their survival, continued traditions and spiritual connection to and caring of country, land, sky, water and sea. We pay respect to their Elders past and present and will continue to support their right to self-determination. We are committed to Reconciliation and respectfully recognise that sovereignty has never been ceded.