A DEFINITION OF SPIRITUALITY
Spiritual Companions welcome diversity. As we take a person-centred approach we therefore encourage everyone to develop their own understanding and definition of spirituality. At the same time we need to be explicit about our own terms of reference. Recognising that this is a cultural minefield we tend to use the following definition which we find works well in education, healthcare and social services.
Spirituality is everyone’s natural connection with the wonder and energy of life; and the instinct to explore that experience and its meaning.
We then go on to suggest that:
Spirituality affirms that life’s journey is about the growth of compassion, connection and consciousness.
This definition sits comfortably within the global trend away from adherence to a single faith tradition towards a more generalised, diverse and inclusive approach. In other words: spiritual but not religious.
THE HEART OF SPIRITUALITY
Repeating what is written above, we suggest that at the very heart of spirituality lies every individual’s own authentic encounter with the wonder and energy of life. This sense of connection is not something that can be handed down or imposed; it emerges uniquely within each person as they awaken to the mystery and vitality that surrounds and flows through them.
Yet true spirituality does not end with connection alone. It requires the maturity to take responsibility for one’s own growth and self-management — cultivating compassion, expanding consciousness, and developing both heart and mind in equal measure. This reflective journey ensures that spirituality becomes not just a belief, but a lived practice that continually shapes character and deepens wisdom.
And of course, such connection and reflection must ultimately flow outward in service. It is crucial and fundamental that our spirituality translates into action that benefits the world around us — through kindness, integrity, healing, justice, and care for people and planet. In this way, spirituality finds its full expression: Connection. Reflection. Service.
OUR INDIVIDUAL BELIEFS
Within the community of Spiritual Companions people come from a wide variety of faith traditions including none at all. We are not associated with any faith tradition. We encourage and support people in developing their own mature and autonomous approach to spirituality and self-management. At the same time we respect that many people feel strongly rooted in certain spiritual traditions and we warmly welcome them too.
“When I first heard about the Spiritual Companions project, it immediately ‘grabbed’ me as filling the niche for the great numbers of people who are seeking something spiritual but are not impressed by the dogmas of orthodox religions. I felt hugely honoured and privileged to be a part of it. Teaching and facilitating spiritual development courses and Spiritual Companion guidelines is a joy, both in seeing others grow and in the learning and growth that I also achieve.”
-Carl Stonier, Spiritual Companions Trustee
“The concept of spiritual companionship, that is, pastoral care without the baggage of specific religious doctrine, is crucial in our culture, in our time. So many people who are disenchanted with the narrow focus of institutional religions crave a spiritual life, a spiritual path. Spiritual Companions are well equipped to help those who are “not religious, just spiritual” to open their awareness, understand their quest and develop a satisfying spiritual life.”
-Ramona K. Silipo, Spiritual Companion
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