Spiritual Accompaniment Training Course 2027

Have you ever felt called to walk alongside others as they explore their relationship with God? Are you interested in deepening your own prayer life while discerning a ministry of listening, reflection and spiritual support? The Diocese of Manchester is offering a unique opportunity to train as a spiritual companion through its Spiritual Accompaniment Training Course 2027.

Based at the beautiful and historic Whalley Abbey, this course is designed for those who feel drawn to the ministry of spiritual accompaniment, as well as those who wish to explore whether such a calling may be right for them. Easily accessible from the Greater Manchester area, Whalley Abbey provides an ideal setting for prayer, reflection, learning and spiritual growth.

A Journey of Formation and Discernment

Running from January to June 2027, the course combines regular training days with an overnight stay and a residential retreat. Rather than focusing primarily on academic study, the programme offers an experiential approach that encourages participants to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, reflection and practice.

Throughout the course, participants will explore a variety of prayer traditions and spiritual practices while learning the skills and sensitivities required to accompany others on their spiritual journeys.

Who Is the Course For?

The course is open to:

• Individuals wishing to train as spiritual companions.
• Those discerning whether this ministry may be their calling.
• People seeking to deepen their own spiritual life through guided formation and reflection.

Successful participants may be invited to join our network of spiritual companions, providing ongoing opportunities to support others within the wider Church community.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants should already be receiving spiritual direction themselves and have a commitment to regular prayer. The organisers recognise that prayer can often feel challenging or inadequate, but a willingness to engage faithfully in spiritual practice is essential.

Importantly, while the course is being run by the Church of England, it is open to people of all denominations and backgrounds. A desire to explore faith, prayer and spiritual accompaniment is the key requirement.

Course Leadership

The programme will be delivered by an experienced team from the Diocese of Manchester, led by the Bishop’s Advisor for Spiritual Accompaniment, The Venerable David Sharples.

Dates for 2027

The course includes the following sessions:

• 7–8 January (overnight stay)
• 21 January
• 11 February
• 25 February
• 11 March
• 12–15 April (residential retreat)
• 29 April
• 13 May
• 27 May
• 10 June
• 24 June

Sessions are generally held on Thursdays.

Cost and Financial Support

The course fee is £700.

Recognising that finances should not be a barrier to vocation and ministry, bursaries and grants may be available. Clergy may be able to access CME funding, while grants for lay participants may also be available.

How to Apply

If you would like to find out more or request an application form, please contact:

BishopsChaplain@manchester.anglican.org

Applications will be considered once a completed application form has been received.