I like the term Lamplighter. I learned this word from wisdom teacher mystic Cynthia Bourgeault who described the spiritual teachers in her life – both ancient and contemporary – as lamplighters, those lighting the way for her path. Isn’t that a cool way of describing people of faith?
I love this word and have learned like electric wires lamplighters bringing light into my soul, I too have lamplighters, even a few high-tension ones that boost my spirit beyond the ordinary. Highly charged lamplighters for me are Henri Nouwen, Teresa of Avilla, and Barbara Brown Taylor.
In 2003 in my first class to become a spiritual director, they encouraged us to choose (or did that person choose us?) one person to “walk” with for the next three years. We would read about that person, their story, and their spiritual journey. How did faith shape their life? How did they discern which way to go? What worked and what didn’t? We read what others wrote about that person and if they left writings, dug deep into their words. We presented, discussed, and wrote reflection papers about our spiritual mentor. Their story became ingrained into our story.
Interested in learning more and maybe choosing a lamplighter for your own? My friend Lori Melton is releasing a new book, Journey with a Giant, Choose Your Guide, Pursue your Purpose, and Grow in your Walk with God. This a great book full of guidance, ideas, reflections and inspiration about the practice of “walking with a spiritual giant.”
One unique aspect about her book is it is set up to read across a year. You can choose a lamplighter and follow her book throughout the year, using the prompts and prayers to deepen your experience and exploration with your new guide.
Even though I have studied these “saints” before I plan to use her book for more in-depth study in 2026. Want to join me? Just like we can pick a word of the year which I still plan to do; I plan also to choose a lamplighter for the year. Check out her book and pray about joining me in this spiritual practice for the new year.
I love this image of the lamplighter and am thinking of those who have been there along each step of the way – some of them in person, others through reading. Praising God for the Holy Spirit who whispers, ‘this is the way, walk ye in it.’
Thanksgiving blessings to you, dear one. You have served as a faithful lamplighter for so many.
ahhh you are so kind. sometimes we (meaning me too) forget the living, current lamplighters in our lives like you and our fellow friends in the Body of Christ who encourage us and lift us up in prayer and kindness. Thank you for that reminder!
This piece feels like a warm, guiding hand. The metaphor of a lamplighter walking with you through a whole year is so beautiful, it makes the spiritual journey feel gentle, steady, and hopeful. Thank you for such inspiring imagery.
Hi Virgina. I love the image of lamplighter – it is so inviting isn’t it? Glad you like it too and hope you find many lamplighters on your spiritual path