My faith journey has been a wild ride, and I have Father Richard Rohr to thank for challenging me and reminding me that "God comes to us disguised as our lives." Today I am working to connect with my past, community, and story in order to find a deeper connection with the divine.
Back in the mid-2000's, I went through a period of deconstruction in my faith, but this led me on a path to becoming a Spiritual Director. I'm passionate about guiding others on their faith journeys and finding new ways to experience the presence of God in their lives. Although it was tough at the time, I wouldn't trade that experience for anything now because it's brought me closer to where I am today.
I work to share my story honestly and inspire others to find God in the present moment. I'm here to walk alongside you as we explore the divine together and learn to trust in ourselves and the holy.
Additionally I am also working as a student and faculty member for Enneagram teacher Marion Gilbert. Her work with the Somatic Enneagram has changed the way I interact with the world and I use the Somatic Enneagram for specific coaching and also as a part of my spiritual direction work. I was fortunate to be a part of the first certification cohort in the Somatic Enneagram in the US.
I practice in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, but I also offer sessions online via Zoom. I use he/him pronouns and strive to create a safe and affirming space for everyone. Let's embark on this journey together."
Aaron Manes (he/him) is a certified spiritual director, an enneagram teacher and a mission-driven leader. He currently serves as the Director of Online Ministry and Spiritual Engagement at Arapaho United Methodist Church in Richardson, TX, where he leads the Room 2 community for people who are deconstructing faith. He is also a student of Enneagram teacher Marion Gilbert and is part of the first certification cohort in the Somatic Enneagram in the US. Additionally, he serves on the board of Kin•dom Community, a missional organization community who supports LGBTQIA+ kids and families through community, retreat and camps. Aaron is gratefully outnumbered at home in Dallas by his wife and two daughters. He pitches for a softball team and cheers for the Dallas Cowboys and Mavericks.
SMU Perkins School of Theology
Certification Of Spiritual Direction
Somatic & Spiritual Enneagram Informed
Spiritual Directors International
Professional Member
Retreat House Spirituality Center Partner
Board Member at Kin•dom Community
Advisor and Spiritual Director at Synergy Wesley at The University of Texas at Dallas
Aaron written work is published in “The Enneagram Monthly” and on various Spiritual Direction websites
Having Aaron as a spiritual director has been a real life line. After my faith deconstruction I spent several years spinning my wheels attempting to reconstruct my faith. After our very first session I started to feel unstuck. I felt seen. Over the past year, I’ve really learned to better understand myself and what my spiritual life can look like. The answers have been there all along, but Aaron has helped me uncover them.
-Josh R.
I came to Aaron for spiritual direction during a very challenging time. I am incredibly grateful for his ability to honor my experience while gently directing my attention back to God's presence. My time working with Aaron has been hopeful and healing.
- Marion A.
Aaron has helped me see God providing a better path through life's ups and downs. I am amazed at what God reveals during our conversations. I am thankful for Aaron's genuine love and non-judgment.
- Gary F.