Description
Spiritual direction is one of the most fruitful ways a priest can exercise his fatherhood—especially when offered to boys at the threshold of maturity. In a culture that discourages deep reflection and spiritual aspiration, young men benefit immensely from priests who guide them, challenge them, and invite them to friendship with Christ.
This simple but profound guide offers clarity, encouragement, and concrete strategies for priests who want to help boys grow in prayer, virtue, sacramental life, and—if God wills it—take steps toward a priestly vocation. With pastoral wisdom and deep respect for the unique role of the diocesan priest, it shows how spiritual direction can be offered even amid a busy parish schedule.
You do not need special training—only the willingness to walk with a boy toward the Heart of Christ. Perhaps he may hear the Lord’s call through your invitation, but he can certainly be aided to live the Gospel more fully.
Msgr. Andrew McLean Cummings is a priest of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and Coordinator of Spiritual Formation at Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD. After missionary work in Russia, he earned a doctorate in moral theology in Rome. He is President of the Federation of Seminary Spiritual Directors and author of Making God the Joy of My Soul.
