Judy Howard’s journey in spiritual accompaniment spans decades, rooted in a deep commitment to listening and guiding others in their faith.
Raised in a Christian family in Uganda, Judy’s upbringing in a large, close-knit tribal community shaped her approach to spirituality and hospitality.
“I was raised in a friendly, loving community, where we always shared our space with others,” Judy said. “This spirit of hospitality has deeply shaped my vocation.
“Growing up in Africa, the elder in a community – the wise woman or wise man – was always revered. I hope that people see me a little bit like that now, as someone to turn to when they are searching for clarity or a deeper connection with God.”
Judy moved to Gloucestershire with her family aged 27, after going to university, getting married, and having her first child. She became licensed as a Reader in the Church of England in 1993. She said: “I was doing lots of vocational listening in groups around the diocese, and we’d do residentials and spend time in deep conversation. I spent a lot of time just listening, encouraging, and nurturing faith journeys.”
She was ordained in 2001 and spent 9 years at St James’, Tredworth before deciding it was time to step back from her work there. “The Church of England uses the word ‘retire’, but I don’t see moving into spiritual accompaniment as retirement. It’s a lifelong vocation. The life of prayer and discerning God’s will for individuals and community was always what I wanted to do,” she said.
Judy describes her work as a spiritual guide as an organic journey that has evolved over the years. She has helped individuals and families prepare for baptisms, weddings, and funerals, always emphasising the importance of creating space for people to explore their relationship with God.
“I don’t see my role as directing someone; it’s about seeking direction together,” she said. “The essence of spiritual accompaniment is being present and listening deeply, not with the intention to offer advice or solutions.”
For the past ten years, Judy has been involved with St Laurence Church in Stroud, a center for peace and the arts, where she works with people, mostly in the second half of life, who seek a more contemplative spirituality. Her approach focuses on silence, vulnerability, and listening.
She said: “I weep with people, often. Weeping happens when you open yourself to God’s spirit. It’s a mutual relationship. I encourage people to search together, to feel the flow of the Holy Spirit between people who are open before God.
“Faith is about risking, trusting, and surrendering. It’s not about what we think we know, but about being present and open to what God is revealing in each moment. Learning how to surrender is a continuous way of life. It’s not about hours of contemplation; it’s in the small moments, when we become aware of our feelings of irritation or fear, and choosing to surrender them by taking an out breath, or looking at the trees.”
If you feel you might have a calling into this ministry or something new, find out more about next steps on our diocesan vocations pages.
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