An Ignatian Immersion Course

The Ignatian charism has clearly a valuable contribution to make to Christian life in our worldtoday. This course provides an opportunity to study the legacy of Ignatius of Loyola in some depth,both as an inspiration for authentic Christian living in contemporary society and Church, and as ameans for the spiritual formation of individuals and groups.The Course is geared to the broad Ignatian family (Jesuits, members of other religious institutesand lay people) and it will be run in English.We begin by looking at the personal experience of Ignatius, the pilgrim, an experience whichsheds light on how people come to grow in Christian life. Then, after an 8-day individually guidedIgnatian retreat, we will approach the Spiritual Exercises from a mystagogical and pedagogical angle.An overview of Ignatius’ oeuvre will culminate in a study of the Jesuit “Formula of the Institute” and ofthe Constitutions. The whole course will conclude with sessions on the theology and spirituality whichflow from the life and teachings of Ignatius, and with an analysis of the various projects for Christianliving which continue to emerge from Ignatian spirituality.Lectures will take place alongside personal study and an on-going dialogue aimed to helpingparticipants to integrate their various experiences. It will be an important part of the method to livein a place where Ignatius himself spent an important part of his life (Manresa) and visit various otherIgnatian sites (Montserrat, Loyola, Javier), so that the study can be vivid and contextualised. This qualityof spiritual experience will be a constant theme throughout the course as will appropriate times ofprayer and Eucharistic celebration.Take a look at the detailed programme.