Spiritual Direction

See God At Work In Your Life

Spiritual direction is the time-honored tradition of accompanying another person on his or her spiritual journey. Sometimes called spiritual guidance, it provides an opportunity to become more aware of the Divine’s presence in our lives through conversations that deepen our relationships with God, ourselves and each other; that explore questions of meaning and purpose — especially in times of transition; and that honors the unique unfolding of our lives. Spiritual direction is sought by those with a faith tradition or no tradition at all.

For more information, please contact Kathie Tilot, Spiritual Direction Coordinator, at 920-337-4340 or kathie.tilot@norbertines.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spiritual direction is not counseling; it is not focused on problem solving. A spiritual director will not tell you what to do, engage in theological debate, or set goals like a like coach might do.

Men and women who seek spiritual direction come from diverse backgrounds and for a variety of reasons: They may be discerning a vocation or wondering what God is calling them to. They may be experiencing a sense of spiritual “dryness” or are seeking a greater awareness of the sacred in the everyday moments of their lives. Individuals may seek direction as they face important decisions or navigate life’s transitions or process a profound spiritual experience.  Others may simply be seeking someone with whom they can share their story. 

Spiritual directors at the Norbertine Center for Spirituality are women and men who have received extensive training. They create a safe space where directees can share their sacred stories. Spiritual directors listen deeply and with compassion, respect confidentiality, and help directees explore their unique spiritual path. They may use spiritual practices such as prayer, scripture, time in nature, journaling, or the arts.

Sessions are generally scheduled once per month for an hour. Some people prefer to meet more frequently, others prefer to meet less often. The frequency is something you decide with your spiritual director.

The suggested cost is $50 per session. However, money is not meant to be an obstacle. The Norbertine Center for Spirituality will accept a donation within your means.

To learn more about whether spiritual direction is right for you, or to set up an appointment with one of our spiritual directors, contact Kathie Tilot, spiritual direction coordinator, at kathie.tilot@norbertines.org or 920.337.4340.

NCS Spiritual Directors

Fr. Bill Ribbens, O. Praem.

Fr. Bill brings a deep wisdom to spiritual direction. He meets with directees and with those who wish to do 4th and 5th step work. “As we grow older, we become more aware, more contemplative,” Fr. Bill said. “I help people look at the Gospel and see what they find there for themselves. There is an awakening of what we hear versus what we’ve listened to our whole lives. It is a process of becoming aware of God’s love and appreciating what it means for each of us.”

Br. Steve Herro, O. Praem.

Br. Steve completed his spiritual direction training from the Franciscan Center for Spirituality (La Crosse, WI) in 2021. He began to discern spiritual direction ministry when he became more aware of Ignatian spirituality as a parishioner at a Jesuit parish from 2012-2015. Br. Steve describes spiritual direction as “the practice of accompanying another pilgrim on his or her journey to find meaning in life amidst the belief of the role of a higher power in each of our lives.”

Kathie Tilot

Kathie is a spiritual director, supervises other directors, and coordinates spiritual direction at the Norbertine Center for Spirituality. She also has a special interest in contemplative prayer. “I believe being present to another person, receiving their stories with love and compassion, is one of the greatest gifts we can offer,” Kathie said. “Spiritual direction invites us to explore life’s questions, to live from a place of authenticity, and to know that we are loved by God.”