Ruth Haley Barton

I have been engaged in the art and practice of spiritual direction for over 20 years.  “How do people change—really?” has been my question from the time I was being raised as a pastor’s kid in a conservative religious environment. This question emerged partly from my awareness of my own need to change and partly because of my observation that spiritual transformation is one of the most over-promised and under-delivered aspects of Christianity in its current expression. Encountering the richness of the broader Christian tradition in the midst of my own desire and disillusionment led me on a journey of reclaiming practices that spiritual seekers down through the ages have used to open themselves to God’s transforming work. I gratefully acknowledge and incorporate the wisdom of my teachers/mentors Gerald May, Tilden Edwards, and Rosemary Dougherty into my practice of spiritual direction, having been profoundly shaped by the ecumenical training they provided. It is my joy to offer guidance and support to pastors and leaders who are seeking the mystery of God in the most intimate questions of their lives.

For the most part, I work with pastors and leaders who have completed/are in the process of completing a Transforming Community experience and only consider directees who are able to meet in person.