<P><B>ECPA Gold Medallion Finalist</B></P><P><B>We need companions on our spiritual journey.</B></P><P>The modern world has taught us to value autonomy and individualism. Our churches often see spirituality as personal and private. But we cannot go long in our Christian pilgrimage before realizing that isolation leads to spiritual barrenness. We soon discover that our souls long for accompaniment intimacy and spiritual friendship. As a result many Christians today are rediscovering the ancient practice of spiritual direction.</P><P>In this inviting guide David G. Benner introduces readers to the riches of spiritual friendship and direction explaining what they are and how they are practiced. Spiritual direction moves beyond mere moral lifestyle accountability and goes deeper than popular notions of mentoring or discipling. Through prayerful guided attunement to God's activity sacred companions provide care for the soul.</P><P>If we are to experience significant spiritual formation and growth our souls must be nurtured through spiritual companions. Benner well-accustomed to God's work through relationships models the kind of traveling companion who can move us toward deeper intimacy with God.</P>