How to Find a Spiritual Director for Your Deconstruction Journey

The rise of the exvangelical movement in America has seen many people leaving the Evangelical church in search of a new spiritual path. Popular authors like Rachel Held Evans, Richard Rohr, Brian McLaren, Christina Cleveland, Pete Enns, Rob Bell, Sue Monk Kidd and many others have helped to give voice to the people leaving the faith of their upbringing and finding new life in other parts of Christianity. This journey of deconstructing one's faith is not an easy one and it's important to do it in community with someone who understands what you're going through. That's where a spiritual director can help.

A spiritual director is a trained professional who can offer guidance and support as you navigate this new territory. Not all spiritual directors are equipped to handle the complex emotions and experiences that come with being an exvangelical or going through deconstruction. That's why it's important to find one who has a similar story and understands the journey you're on.

Finding a spiritual director who has walked a similar road as you can be a valuable resource in your journey. Whether you're seeking guidance and support, or just someone to talk to, these spiritual directors below can offer the help you need. By working with a spiritual director, you'll be able to navigate the challenges of your journey and find a new spiritual path that works for you.

 

Aaron Manes
Spiritual Director

In the mid-2000's my personal faith went through a deconstruction in the midst of the early-progressive church movement. This journey has been a part of my call to Spiritual Direction (AKA Spiritual Companion) and leading faithful ragamuffins and pilgrims to find new faith experiences. Today I am following my call to tell my own story honestly, t0 recognize and encourage other people to find God in their present journey rather than their destination. I am a trained Spiritual Director (at SMU), a Certified Teacher and Faculty Member for the Marion Gilbert Method of the Somatic Enneagram as well as an Accredited Professional with the International Enneagram Association. I am a a speaker and panelist for new and emerging spaces among multiple denominations and am a preferred Spiritual Director for many non-profits who pursue growth for their members; specifically organizations with a LGBTQ+, Faith Deconstruction and Emerging Leadership emphasis.

To contact me, Click Here or email at Aaron@aaronmanes.com.

Lindsay O’Connor
Spiritual Director

Lindsay is passionate about cultivating brave spaces for the hard and holy work of healing in relation to God, self, and others, for the flourishing of all people. She holds compassionate space for seekers desiring to experience the divine in new, more expansive ways and offers support for those who are grappling with foundational questions about their faith or are grieving the loss of their faith communities. She grew up in evangelicalism and has spent nearly a decade re-examining her beliefs while embracing a more inclusive, justice-oriented, contemplative spirituality. Lindsay welcomes directees from all (or no) faith backgrounds and can meet virtually or in person in Richardson, Texas. Read more HERE.

Contact Lindsay at lindsayloconnor@gmail.com

 

Kelley Weber
Spiritual Director

Kelley is a certified Spiritual Director through Aquinas Institute of Theology and graduated in 2022 from The Living School at the Center of Action and Contemplation in New Mexico where she studied with Richard Rohr, James Finely, Cynthia Bourgeault, Brian McLaren and Dr. Barbara Holmes.  She is also a student of Enneagram teacher Marion Gilbert and is part of her first certification cohort in the Somatic Enneagram in the US. 

Kelley's heart is with those who feel outside any traditional religious setting and yet long for a connectedness to a deep spiritual life. Her faith tradition is rooted in the teachings of Jesus that inspire her towards a loving and just world where we take care of and make space for everyone in radically generous ways.

Contact Kelley via email at aspiralspace@gmail.com.

Matt Nightingale
Spiritual Director

Matt Nightingale is a pastor, musician, speaker, writer, and spiritual director from the San Francisco Bay Area. He is founder and executive director of Common Sanctuary, co-pastor of The Quest, and a spiritual director and group facilitator with The Journey Center and The Christian Closet. You can read about his life and work on his website.

As a gay Christian, Matt is passionate about the intersection of sexuality and spirituality, and he works to create safe, sacred spaces for people exploring these identities. His TEDx talk with his former wife, Luanne Nightingale, tells their story of a mixed-orientation marriage, their evolving understanding of faith and sexuality, and their choice to divorce with gratitude and hope. Matt is the happy husband of Alejandro and the proud father of four adult children.

Contact Matt via email at matt@commonsanctuary.com.