Spiritual direction practice located at
Emmanuel Lutheran Church Lancaster PA

bitner@soulandharp.com
717-201-3863 Sharon
717-397-6195 Church Office

About Sharon:
Spiritual direction began as a prayer and search for deeper purpose as wife, mother and musician. Spiritual direction training offered connection with others who desire deeper purpose and meaning in life. I understand this desire as a continual invitation to live a full and fruitful life through loving and serving others.

Spiritual Direction:

I am experienced and enjoy working with women of all ages in life-transitions, seminary students who are continuing to discern their call through theological education, and musicians, artists, and those with creatively inspired longings. Dreams, visions, spiritual prayer practices, journaling, art, and music are welcomed as part of spiritual direction conversations.

Certified Music Practitioner®:
As a CMP®, I am privileged to offer spiritual support and healing presence through therapeutic harp music at the bedside of the ill and dying. As a Certified Music Practitioner®, my preparation includes the intention to be of service by providing an integration of mindful spiritual practice and Celtic harp music/song that creates a peaceful, comforting environment. Prayerful harp music may be included in spiritual direction sessions if desired.

Interests:
Cooking, gardening, listening to jazz, travelling, (especially to the Southwest to visit our daughter) enjoying family and friends. A pianist and organist for most of my life, playing the Celtic harp opens up new possibilities for offering music to others. As a member of the Brandywine Harp Orchestra www.brandywineharps.com, I was privileged to perform in Scotland at the Edinburgh International Harp Festival, April 2009.

Education/Training:
MS degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling, spiritual direction, Neumann College, Aston, PA
Bachelor degree Music Education, Seton Hill College, Greensburg, PA
Certified Music Practitioner, CMP®, Music for Healing and Transition Program®
Reiki practitioner, Levels I & II

While spiritual direction often includes training and education, commitment to a spiritual life both in solitude and community is the foundation of spiritual formation.  Spiritual direction is one source of finding community and prayer that supports one’s spiritual life.                                                      

As a member of Spiritual Directors International I abide by the SDI Guidelines for Ethical Conduct.


Professional Affiliations:
     SDI – Spiritual Directors International
     Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality