I would describe my “religious background” as eclectic. I grew up in a Presbyterian environment in Southland, and morphed in an Anglican direction upon moving to Christchurch.

Although I am a member of the Anglican church, I have spent many years in ecumenical contexts, including volunteer work with Christchurch City Mission, a Degree and Diploma from Bible College of New Zealand (now Laidlaw), and 14 years as a tertiary chaplain. The latter involved ministering to people in a secular context, including interaction with many overseas students. Along the way I received clear guidance that a central aspect of my role was creating an environment in which people could encounter God.

My initial training was with Spiritual Growth Ministries. I later completed an M.A. (Spirituality) through Melbourne College of Divinity.

While I hesitate to put ‘labels’ on a description of my spirituality, because words mean different things to different people, I would describe myself as wholistic – embracing all of the streams mentioned by Richard Foster in his book “Streams of Living Water” – Contemplative, Charismatic, Evangelical, Incarnational, Social Justice and Holiness.

I believe I am able to receive people as they are and journey with them into a meaningful relationship with God – who is present with us as we meet.

Spiritual Direction/Companionship

Christians believe that our God is a personally-communicating God who wants to have a relationship with us. I understand a Spiritual Director as someone who walks with us as we endeavour to pay attention to the presence of God in our life and respond to what we are hearing and noticing. God is present in the whole of our life, and can pop up in least expected places!

I have been offering spiritual direction/mentoring since 1992, as well as leading Quiet Days and Retreats – including 5 day retreats in the midst of the beauties of the natural world on Stewart Island. I am passionate about helping people grow in their relationship with God. As I move into retirement from employment in parish and chaplaincy ministries, I have more time to give to spiritual direction (and supervision if this is your need).

A story as requested: I became friendly with an Asian student during my chaplaincy years. After her studies, she returned to her home country and lived in a small apartment as a solo Mum, whilst working out her bond. Life was challenging for her, and we continued to communicate by e-mail and occasional skyping. I sent her a “Review of the Day” prayer resource, which she used each evening with her daughter.

This practice connected them with God in a way that provided inner strength to navigate the sometimes choppy waters, and experience God’s active presence in their lives.