Ignatian Key Words A brief survey of some of the most popular catch-phrases in Ignatian spirituality and pedagogy Compiled by Sarah Hanna, August,

God in All Things

God in All Things A pillar of the Ignatian approach to spirituality is the idea that God is part of our lives not only when we pray, but also in our work, our casual conversations, our engagement with pop culture – in all things. This means that each person is free to engage with God in the way that is most fruitful for them. As a student, you may find God by coming to understand the world more fully, or by engaging creatively with your own gifts and talents.

Discernment

Discernment A prayerful process of decision-making. St. Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits, designed methods for discernment that included rational consideration of pros and cons, attending to one’s emotions and desires, prayer, reflection, and consultation with others. Making good decisions includes taking into account the important relationships in your life. For people of faith, that includes the relationship with God.

Solidarity

Solidarity As Christians, we believe we are called to serve others, but that is not the end of our commitment to each other. Solidarity is the deep understanding that we are all one human family. Solidarity demands that societies are structured so that everyone is treated with justice. It also means that we as individuals should genuinely share the concerns of our neighbours. It asks us not only to do things for others, but to walk with others.

Cura Personalis

Cura Personalis This is a Latin phrase that is sometimes translated as “care of the whole person.” It represents a desire to recognize our neighbours as persons with innate dignity. It also calls us to care for each person as unique and multi-faceted. University students are not only in the business of growing in their intellectual understanding, but of enriching their spiritual lives and developing socially.

Reflection

Reflection God can be found in each person’s unique experience. It follows, then, that we must be attentive to what we experience. This can take many different forms, including considering questions about the world that you encounter in your studies, using your memory and imagination, expressing yourself creatively, and traditional forms of prayer and meditation. Reflection is most effective when it is a regular habit.

Magis

Magis A Latin word that may be translated as “more” or “greater.” It refers to the notion of striving for the greater good, especially when making decisions. It relates to the Jesuit motto “Ad maiorem dei gloriam” (for the greater glory of God), which you may see abbreviated as “AMDG.” Living out this ideal does not necessarily imply grand gestures – it may simply mean discerning well how best to grow in relationship with God and one another.

Helpful Sites Jesuit Resource A variety of print and online resources to help you to understand Jesuits and Ignatian Spirituality, and to pray in the tradition yourself. Check out “Do You Speak Ignatian” for more discussion of key words. Ignatianspirituality.com A good point of departure when you are planning an Ignatian prayer or reflection. A good place to look deeper if you are interested in any particular Ignatian themes. Catholic Social Teaching Solidarity is one of the key themes of Catholic social teaching. Learn about all six themes here. Sacred Space A guided experience of Ignatian prayer that takes just a few minutes. These resources were instrumental in creating this presentation, and would be useful for further study.