Office of Ignatian Spirituality: Recent Episodes
OIS and IYAM
The Office of Ignatian Spirituality (OIS), a ministry of the Jesuits on the East Coast, works to promote the ministry of the Spiritual Exercises and to create opportunities for people to experience its graces. Listen here for audio reflections that incorporate Ignatian themes into daily spirituality as well as resources for spiritual directors.
Today we are at the Boston College Clough School of Theology and Ministry. This episode welcomes Rachel and Kelly, our inaugural OIS Mission Interns. They give vivid expression to discernment and to finding God in creation and in daily life, and how God led them to where they are now as graduate students in theology and ministry—and they ace every question Dr. Dave throws at them.Special thanks to our guests: Rachel Sexton, M.Div, Boston College; Kelly Bender, MA, Boston CollegeLINKS: Igatian.Info. | BC.edu/bc-web/schools/stm.html
We chat with three YACs—leaders of the Young Adult Community at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Georgetown. Annie, Abby, and Richard share about how they find God in the beauty and life of a major city like Washington, D.C., and why young adults should go on retreat, engage in faith sharing, and what song in their Spotify library captures their experience of God.Special thanks to our guests: Annie McAuliffe, Religion Teacher, St. John's College High School; Abby Michaels, Director of Mission and Ministry St. John's College High School; Richard Lee, attorney at Foley and Lardner.LINKS: Igatian.Info. | Trinity.org
It is said that joy is an infallible sign of the presence of God. Our last live episode from the Ignatian Family Teach-in, was full of joy! In this episode, filled with laughter and hope and insight, Sr. Erin, Kascha, and Moira share about their ministry and work, about the importance of intergenerational witness at the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice, and how spirituality (especially Ignatian spirituality) helps us press on. It comes back to the basic idea of finding God in all things, including in the most ordinary: a good meal, a nap, in what we notice of nature and creation, in pop culture, in sports, and certainly in the things that bring us joy. God is in these details, and finding God in all things helps us press on together and recharge our charism batteries when we need to. Special thanks to our guests: Sr. Erin McDonald, CSJ, Digital Youth Minister for the Congregation of St. Joseph and Cohost of Beyond the Habit; Kascha Sanor, Director of Social and Environmental Justice, Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph; Moira Depman, Senior Communications Manager, Catholic Mobilizing Network.LINKS: Igatian.Info. | IgnatianSolidarity.net
What does it mean to press on in the life of faith and justice, and what might it mean to seekers and those new to the Ignatian tradition? Three dynamic leaders: Clarissa Aljentera of the Ignatian Solidarity Network, Michael Libunao-Macalintal of Regis High School, and Jeffrey Miguel Echenique Wallace of Gwynedd Mercy University all offer rich insights that unlock how to live the mission of Ignatian spirituality rooted in Ignatius's own life story and the dynamics of the Spiritual Exercises: Be curious, sit with the itching question, and be surprised. It's about the journey. They also share about their heroes and exemplars in the life of faith and justice.Special thanks to our guests: Clarissa Aljentera, Director of Education for Justice, Ignatian Solidarity Network; Michael Libunao-Macalintal, Director of Campus Ministry, Regis High School; Jeffrey Echenique Wallace, Director of Spirituality and Justice, Gwynedd Mercy UniversityLINKS: Igatian.Info. | IgnatianSolidarity.net
Live again at the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice, this episode brings together collaborators in Jesuit education apostolates: Kaija DeWitt-Allen and Shawna Gallagher Vera of Xavier High School, and Dr. Jeannine Hill Fletcher of Fordham University's Theology Department. We explore memory, practices of discernment and prayer, and the meaning of Jesuit education—both at the secondary and university level. We also take a moment to appreciate the significance of the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice for our students and for ourselves, and explore the unique insights that our students offer to the meaning of Ignatian Spirituality today.Special thanks to our guests: Jeannine Hill Fletcher, PhD, Professor of Theology, Fordham University;Kaija DeWitt-Allen, Director of Campus Ministry, Xavier High School; Shawna Gallagher Vera, Vice President of Communications and Marketing, Xavier High SchoolLINKS: Discernment.Igatian.Info. | IgnatianSolidarity.net
Here's an episode with an actual Ignatian family! John and Clara are a married couple deeply engaged in the Ignatian family as key staff in Jesuit Refugee Service USA and American Jesuits International respectively. They both share about the Ignatian and Jesuit mission to be with others and to be at home in the world, and to face our world with hope as we pursue faith and justice. As they echo, our house is the world, and Ignatian Spirituality helps us stay grounded and at home in the world by keeping us attentive to our feelings, aware of our history, and focused on seeing Jesus.Special thanks to our guests: Clara Sayans, Outreach Manager, Jesuit Refugee Service USA; John Byrd, Communications Manager, American Jesuits International.LINKS: Igatian.Info. | https://www.jrsusa.org | https://americanjesuitsinternational.org | https://ignatiansolidarity.net
in this great episode. Visit us online at: Ignatian.InfoIf you’re interested in going on an Ignatian retreat, visit MakeARetreat.org for experiences across the East coast.To learn more about the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice and the work of the Ignatian Solidarity Network, visit IgnatianSolidarity.NetSpecial thanks to our guests: Shevaun Low, Executive Director, Gonzaga Eastern Point Retreat House, and Jim Palmer, outgoing Executive Director, Loyola on the Potomac Retreat House.
Coming to you from the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice, this mini-reunion of Regional Coordinators of the Contemplative Leaders in Action program focuses on how Ignatian Spirituality helps us press on. We explore the importance of noticing and savoring in Ignatian Spirituality, and muse on the ways that young adults today have a profound window into these dimensions of Ignatian spiritual practice. The conversation covers topics such as Ignatian spirituality and our professional lives, the opportunities that digital culture offers to engage in noticing and savoring, and heroes in faith and justice. Special thanks to our guests: Beth Brin, University Minister for Formation and Outreach, Regis University and Roxanne de la Torre, Pastoral Associate, Father William J. Bergen SJ Office of Ignatian Spirituality and Faith Formation, Church of St. Ignatius Loyola.Learn more about Ignatian spirituality at Ignatian.InfoLearn more about the Ignatian Solidarity Network at ignatiansolidarity.net.
episode, we bring together staff and students who are engaged in Ignatian retreat ministry. Roddy, Laura, and Kaitlyn share about how Ignatian Spirituality helps them find God on and off-campus, amidst work as a coach, on the subway commute, and even in academic studies and research. They share tidbits on how to discern so that we know that God is present in these aspects of life. They also talk about how Ignatius is relatable to them as young adults. We land on a slogan of a Fordham favorite pizza joint: love is it, and God's love can lead someone to give up watching hockey, and to grow in authentic love of God, neighbor, and self. Special thanks to our guests: Stephanie Roddy, Director of Spiritual Retreat Ministries, Fordham University; Laura Oldfather, Catholic Life Assistant, Fordham University; Kaitlyn Squyres, Fordham University.Learn more about Ignatian spirituality at Ignatian.Info
IgnatianVia.org: Via: The Ignatian Way, an introductory program to Ignatian Spirituality.WhenIgnatiusWasYoung.org: When Ignatius Was Young, an 18th-annotation experience for young adults.MinisterioHispanoIgnaciano.org: Spanish language programs and resources.SeekingSpiritualDirection.org: If you’re interested in learning about Spiritual Direction.MakeARetreat.org: Ignatian retreats.Ignatian.Info: Where you’ll always find plenty of other Ignatian resources.
Welcome to week 6 of Radical Trust: God’s Track Record, Lenten reflections. Maybe we have never had an experience of God as dramatic as the transfiguration, but as believers we have all had glimpses of the divine nature of Jesus in our lives.
Welcome to week 5 of Radical Trust: God’s Track Record, Lenten reflections. Maybe we have never had an experience of God as dramatic as the transfiguration, but as believers we have all had glimpses of the divine nature of Jesus in our lives.
Welcome to week 4 of Radical Trust: God’s Track Record, Lenten reflections. Maybe we have never had an experience of God as dramatic as the transfiguration, but as believers we have all had glimpses of the divine nature of Jesus in our lives.
Welcome to week 3 of Radical Trust: God’s Track Record, Lenten reflections. Maybe we have never had an experience of God as dramatic as the transfiguration, but as believers we have all had glimpses of the divine nature of Jesus in our lives.
Welcome to week 2 of Radical Trust: God’s Track Record, Lenten reflections. Maybe we have never had an experience of God as dramatic as the transfiguration, but as believers we have all had glimpses of the divine nature of Jesus in our lives.
an Advent reflection series to assist our preparation for Christmas. This series is presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an Initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality. Last week we considered our collective “ache for a better world.” Let's take time now to ponder this week’s theme: “(Dis)Comfort and Questions in the Waiting.”
an Advent reflection series to help us all prepare for Christmas. This series is presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an Initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality. Last week we considered what it might take to “Climb the Mountain of God.” Now let's hold together space for this week’s theme: “Aching for a Better World.”
Welcome to “God With Us,” an Advent reflection series to help us all prepare for Christmas. This series is presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality. Take a deep breath, pause and join us in reflecting on our first week's theme: “Climbing the Mountain of God.”
Each month, an Ignatian spiritual director offers their hope as our way of offering inspiration to pilgrims of hope engaged in the ministry of spiritual direction.This month’s reflection is offered by Andy Otto. Andy is a spiritual director and pastoral associate for faith formation at St Thomas More Church in Decatur, Georgia. He spent nearly three years as a Jesuit in formation, where he was shaped in Ignatian spirituality through pastoral ministry, academic study, and Clinical Pastoral Education. Andy trained in spiritual direction through the Jesuit Collaborative in Boston. He offers the Spiritual Exercises and retreat ministry at Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center in Atlanta. He is the author of God Moments: Unexpected Encounters in the Ordinary and the creator of God In All Things, an online resource for Ignatian spirituality.
Each month, an Ignatian spiritual director offers their hope as our way of offering inspiration to pilgrims of hope engaged in the ministry of spiritual direction.This month’s reflection is offered by Michelle Cimaroli, aci (she/her). Michelle has been a Handmaid of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for fifteen years and is currently serving as the Director of St. Raphaela Center outside Philadelphia. She is finishing a two-year spiritual direction formation program at the Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality at Fairfield University. Michelle is passionate about synodality, encouraging women's pastoral gifts and leadership, and creating spaces of safety, belonging and justice.
Each month, an Ignatian spiritual director offers their hope as our way of offering inspiration to pilgrims of hope engaged in the ministry of spiritual direction.This month’s reflection is offered by Christina Leaño, who is a retreat leader, spiritual director, and meditation teacher with over 15 years of experience facilitating spiritual and contemplative programs to diverse audiences. She is in an Ignatian Spiritual Direction Formation Program co-sponsored by Loyola Jesuit Center of Morristown, NJ and St. Joseph’s University of Philadelphia, PA. Christina serves as Associate Director of the Laudato Si' Movement mobilizing the Catholic family worldwide to turn Pope Francis’ encyclical letter, Laudato Si’: On Care for our Common Home into action for climate and ecological justice. She received a M.A. in Systematic Theology from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, CA and lives in the New York City area with her daughter.
Each month, an Ignatian spiritual director offers their hope as our way of offering inspiration to pilgrims of hope engaged in the ministry of spiritual direction.This month’s reflection is offered by Edgardo Lugo, who works as the Director of Bereavement Services at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx. He is a member of St. Francis Xavier Church in Manhattan, and serves on the parish’s leadership team of Ignatian Spirituality and Everyday Life, which offers spiritual direction, the 19th Annotation of the Spiritual Exercises and other spiritual formation programs. Edgardo serves as a Supervisor for the St. Francis Xavier Spiritual Direction Formation Program and for the Spiritual Direction Training Program at Fordham University. He is pursuing a M.A in Christian Spirituality degree with a Concentration on Spiritual Direction at Fordham University.
Each month, an Ignatian spiritual director offers their hope as our way of offering inspiration to pilgrims of hope engaged in the ministry of spiritual direction. This month’s reflection is offered by Rev. Joe Tetlow, SJ, who was ordained in 1960 and whose decades of ministry include serving as a professor at St. Louis University and as a Dean at Loyola New Orleans. He served on the staff of America Magazine for a number of years and was the assistant for Ignatian spirituality in Rome to Superior General Fr. Peter-Hans Kolvenbach for nine years. He is a spiritual director who directed the Montserrat Retreat House in Dallas. Choosing Christ in the World, his handbook for making the full Spiritual Exercises in everyday life, has been translated into a number of languages. His recent books include Handing on the Fire: Making Spiritual Direction Ignatian and Becoming an Easter People.
Each month, an Ignatian spiritual director offers their hope in the spirit of this Jubilee Year of Hope, our way of offering inspiration to pilgrims of hope engaged in the ministry of spiritual direction. This month’s reflection is offered by Lauren Morton. Lauren is a spiritual director and the founder of Bee at Peace, a program that creates spaces for Black women to encounter God by exploring the intersection of faith and femininity, experiencing peace and wholeness, and journeying through the uniqueness of being a Black woman. Lauren is also the academic program manager of the Clark Scholars Program and Dean’s Scholar’s Program at Georgia Tech and a doctoral candidate for the Doctor of Ministry degree at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary with a concentration in spiritual direction. Her areas of interest are Black women and emerging adults.
The urgency of Laudato Si’ is clear. The crises of climate change and social inequality are deeply connected, and they disproportionately harm the most vulnerable among us. Welcome to Care for Creation: Laudato Si' in Action, a reflection series connecting us to our individual and collective call to ecological justice. This reflection was written by Vanessa Rotondo, the Deputy Chief of Staff in the office of the President at Fordham University.This reflection was narrated by Elise Gower, former associate director for Contemplative Leaders in Action.
"In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis encouraged ecological conversion, naming the “nobility in the duty to care for creation though little daily actions” (211). The four years I spent at Bethlehem Farm helped me to practice daily care for creation. It also taught me that caring for creation is more easily accomplished in community with others."Welcome to Care for Creation: Laudato Si' in Action, a reflection series connecting us to our individual and collective call to ecological justice. This reflection was written by Molly Sutter. Molly served as a Caretaker at Bethleham Farm in West Virginia and is now pursuing a Masters in Appalachian Studies from Shepherd University. This reflection was narrated by Elise Gower, former associate director for Contemplative Leaders in Action.
In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis brought attention to the deep connection between environmental degradation and human displacement...articulating how the ecological crisis is not merely an environmental issue but a deeply human one, affecting the lives, dignity, and survival of individuals and communities.Welcome to Care for Creation: Laudato Si' in Action, a reflection series connecting us to our individual and collective call to ecological justice. This reflection was written by Clara Sayans, the Outreach Officer at Jesuit Refugee Service/USA. This reflection was narrated by Elise Gower, former associate director for Contemplative Leaders in Action.
The promulgation of Laudato Si’ 10 years ago was a breath of fresh air, as we felt that the Holy Spirit, through Pope Francis, was confirming and deepening our conviction that the sustainable path was essential to the Christian life. Welcome to Care for Creation: Laudato Si' in Action, a reflection series connecting us to our individual and collective call to ecological justice. This reflection was written by Eric Fitts. Eric is the Executive Director of Bethlehem Farm, a Catholic community in Appalachia that transforms lives through serving with the local community and the teaching of sustainable practices. This reflection was narrated by Elise Gower, former associate director for Contemplative Leaders in Action.
In "Laudato Si’", Pope Francis issued a challenging invitation, encouraging us to pay attention to “those questions which are troubling us…and which we can no longer sweep under the carpet,” so that we “become painfully aware” of “what is happening to our planet” and its people.Welcome to Care for Creation: Laudato Si' in Action, a reflection series connecting us to our individual and collective call to ecological justice. These are the stories that make us painfully aware of the truths of climate change.This week’s reflection was written by Bryan P. Galligan, SJ. Bryan is a Jesuit scholastic of the East Province and was assigned to the Jesuit Justice and Ecology Network Africa where he led advocacy efforts on food and climate justice and engaged in research on the sustainability of small -scale fisheries. This reflection was narrated by Elise Gower, former associate director for Contemplative Leaders in Action.
Each month, an Ignatian spiritual director offers their hope in the spirit of this Jubilee Year of Hope, our way of offering inspiration to pilgrims of hope engaged in the ministry of spiritual direction. This month features Luz Marina Díaz, the Director of the Spritual Direction Practicum at Fordham University.
We have arrived at Holy Week. As we conclude and make our final preparations for Easter, recall your journey over these past 40 days. Where did you begin? How have things shifted? What might your feelings be telling you? Take a moment to open yourself once more to God’s Transformational Love...
This month’s reflection is offered by Rev. George Bur, SJ, a spiritual director who serves as University Chaplain and Special Assistant to the President at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. His long life of ministry has included serving as a pastor, school president, retreat director and superior of the Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth at Wernersville. Within all of these ministries, his service as a spiritual director has enriched his life.
As we enter into prayer today, think about any tension, distractions, or desires that may pull you from being fully present right now. Put those things aside as we ponder one person's experience of “Seeing and Walking with Christ on an Ignatian Pilgrimage.”Welcome to the 5th Week of “Transformational Love,” a Lenten reflection series to help us all prepare for Easter.
We must take to heart the father’s words to his elder son, and hear in them God speaking directly to us: “My [child], you are here with me always; everything I have is yours.”We're halfway there! This week begins with Laetare Sunday, the halfway point of our Lenten journey. Welcome to the 4th Week of “Transformational Love,” a Lenten reflection series to help us all prepare for Easter.
The Gospel for the Third Sunday of Lent seems to offer only stark options: repent or perish. At the end, however, a patient and merciful gardener offers some hope to the threatened fig tree. I wondered, "How did the fig tree feel?"Welcome to the 3rd Week of “Transformational Love,” a Lenten reflection series to help us all prepare for Easter.
"I’ve encountered many people who have had challenges within the church, and I sometimes notice that this boxes in their understanding of how God works and shows up in their everyday lives and in the world. And as we know the spirit of God cannot be boxed in."This month’s reflection is offered by MaryAnne Davey, a spiritual director, retreat facilitator and founder of Body & Soul Ministries, a spiritual accompaniment ministry in Southeastern Massachusetts. MaryAnne holds a certificate in spiritual direction from the Spiritual Direction Internship Initiative and has over eleven years of experience as a spiritual director. She serves as a guest spiritual director at various retreat centers in Massachusetts and is a guest facilitator and educator with the Spiritual Direction Internship Initiative Program.
"One of my favorite stories of St. Ignatius of Loyola is the Cardoner River vision, in which he received a sort of enlightenment from God, illuminating his spiritual senses as though all things were new. When I place myself alongside Peter, John, and James in witnessing the transfiguration of Jesus, this is what I imagine."Welcome to the 2nd Week of “Transformational Love,” a Lenten reflection series to help us all prepare for Easter.
Welcome to “Transformational Love,” a Lenten reflection series to help us all prepare for Easter. We follow Christ through the darkest parts of his story: the agony in the garden, his betrayal and abandonment by his friends, the humiliating march up to Golgotha, and finally his lonely, degrading death. We’re invited to look up at the cross, to see love and hope and goodness hanging limp and lifeless. And we’re asked: even now, can we say that God is good?
"Spiritual directors are companion people that allow our directees to be seen and heard and known in the deepest ways possible with the love of God."The Ignatian Spiritual Direction Initiative's Nancy Small speaks with Marcy Dolan Haley, the Associate Director for the Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality at Fairfield University about her hopes for spiritual direction in these trying times.
Using the Ignatian concept of cura personalis (care of the whole person) as a starting point, Sr. Colleen Gibson, SSJ, and Br. Matt Wooters, SJ, explore more deeply what it means to put hope, joy and community at the heart of all we do.In a world where we are often isolated, is it possible to put community at the center of our lives? How can we form communities of hope and joy?
"Waiting takes on a new meaning when that time is spent considering not how hope is merely a future 'thing' or passive 'happening,' but an ever present event that yearns to be recognized and lived into now." This week’s reflection was written by Luis Melgar and narrated by Kate André. This series is presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries (IYAM), an offering of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality (OIS).
"True joy is not simply happiness, but it is a state of being that also brings with it an inner peace. Our faith calls us to prayer and petition amidst all of our fears and anxieties. Contrary to what our human minds and hearts believe at times, there can be joy in distress and even sorrow. It has been my experience that in times of sadness, God moves through those who love us."This week’s reflection was written by Stephanie Boccuzzi and narrated by Kate André. This series is presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries (IYAM), an offering of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality (OIS).
"Whenever I think of the word 'wait', I get a little anxious...I cannot help but think that the early Christians also felt anxious as they awaited the prophecies of their ancestors to come true. As they heard the stories passed down by generations, did they also say, 'Okay, but how long will it take?' Since those early Christians were human, they may have had the same emotions I have when someone says, 'You just have to wait.'"This week’s reflection was written by Andy DeVivo and narrated by Kate André. This series is presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries (IYAM), an offering of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality (OIS).
"When I usually think of Advent, I jump straight to the nativity story. But today’s readings remind us that Advent is not just about celebrating the anniversary of Jesus’ birth; it’s also a time to prepare for His second coming. In this light, the themes of redemption and preparation resonate, highlighting the similarities between Advent and Lent."This week’s reflection was written by Alison Kress and narrated by Kate André. This series is presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries (IYAM), an offering of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality (OIS).
The 2024 national election calls us to civic engagement, animating our faith through our votes. St. Ignatius reminds us to be contemplatives in action; participants in our ever-changing world. Spend some time in prayer about the upcoming election, using this guided Examen, led by Elise Gower. May this communal prayer join us across the aisle, amidst difference, and in a collective commitment to change. (Examen prayer begins at 6:07)This examen prayer was adapted from the Ignatian Solidarity Network's "An Ignatian Examen for Civic Life" (https://ignatiansolidarity.net/ignatian-examen-for-civic-life/) and "For Voting: Spiritual Practice" by Cole Arthur Riley (https://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/practices/practices/view/29322/for-voting)Background music from Amazon Music Spa Day Playlist [https://music.amazon.com/playlists/B01LWLW140].
Recently the CLA community went In Search of the Common Good, with help from presenter Eric Styles.
We're featuring another excerpt this month from a recent Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) workshop presented by Meg McNeill, a CLA DC Coordinator, who speaks about her experience with accountable leadership.
"When we're not willing to hold the complexity, the simple answers are the wrong ones...Often times, even people who are pro-immigrant talk about the people that we walk with at the border like heroes. And folks who are anti-immigrant talk about them as villains. But neither of those actually resonate as true. The people we are working with are really ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances."Joanna Williams, the Executive Director of the Kino Border Initiative and Joaquin Pannunzio, a Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) New York Alum and former Kino Border Initiative Volunteer, recently joined the CLA community to discuss the theme of "Leading in Complexity." They discuss the complexity of the work of the Kino Border Initiative in accompanying immigrants as well as prayer and contemplation.
So who will you be this Good Friday? What will you be shouting from the crowd? Will it be “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord?” or will it be “Crucify Him!”?
The dying, broken open seed lets in elements like water and minerals that transform it to become something entirely different that produces much fruit. Out of the slow and quiet darkness of the dirt and decay, God works through our spirits to create new life.
In that witness is a love so profound, so transcendent that it can indeed save us, liberating our spirits from that which divides us—whether that’s physical prison walls or spiritual loneliness. Such love connects us to something greater than ourselves, something sacred and eternal.
But God’s words have everlasting life, and Jesus understands our human nature. That can be enough for me to cling on to on those tough days. I pray the same for you, as we all continue to journey through life.This week’s reflection was written by Kate Flores, narrated by Kate André, and presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.
So what do we do with this reading? What kind of God would command someone to do such a thing? What lesson about trust or faith or fortitude is worth the anguish and pain of sacrificing one’s own child? How can we reconcile a God who loves unconditionally with a God willing to do this?This week’s reflection was written by Matthew Ryan-Bender, narrated by Kate André, and presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.
Each year at the start of Lent, I find myself asking some of the same questions: “What are my intentions for this Lenten period?” “What should I fast from this Lent?” “What ‘reset’ button is God asking that I push in my life?”This week’s reflection was written by Amanda McCulloch, narrated by Kate André, and presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.
When Gabriel first speaks to her, Mary is “greatly troubled at what was said.” Greatly troubled! Perplexed! Confused and even disturbed. This is her initial reaction to God’s call. This is perhaps the most relatable and comforting part of the story - Mary doesn’t say yes immediately with no thoughtfulness or reservation. She is rightfully shaken by this astounding news.
As the Jesuit Pierre Telihard de Chardin noted, “we are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay.” Advent is after all a season of waiting, of patience. Perhaps our natural impatience is why it can be so overlooked. Yet the four weeks of Advent are nothing compared to the thousands of years of waiting that Israel endured as it looked for the Messiah.
As we journey through this Advent season, may our hearts be open to God’s unique call for each of our lives. It can be frightening and sometimes uncomfortable to recognize and use our gifts to say “yes.” But God tells us over and over again in the Bible, “Do not be afraid.”
The first week of Advent begins with Jesus telling his disciples that no one “knows when the time will come” and urging them to remain watchful so they are not “found sleeping” when the Lord returns. Jesus’ words are a reminder that Advent is not simply “pre-Christmas.” Rather, the Church teaches that it is also a season of preparation for Christ’s second coming. Each year at Advent, I often find myself asking what exactly it means for me to be prepared? Or to put it in Jesus’ words, how can I resist falling asleep?
Fr. Jim Martin, SJ, recently joined the Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) community to break open the program's first theme, Cultivating a Contemplative Spirituality. In preparation for their journey, participants read The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything. Listen to our interview with with questions curated by the CLA community.
The large and small ways that we live each day express most fully our faith. We are not defined by our outbursts in times of difficulty. Welcome to the sixth and final week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.This reflection was written by Dominick Mastrodonato, a 2021-2023 member of the Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) program in New York City. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA-New York and Virtual Cohort Coordinator.Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) is currently accepting applications for their 2023-2025 cohorts. Apply today: contemplativeleaders.org
Through study, prayer, contemplation, and relationships, I am coming to know God as a tender being that resides in the center of my soul, who is listening to my deepest desires and offering abundant wisdom.Welcome to the Fifth Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.This reflection was written by Amy Sytsma, former Cohort Coordinator of the Contemplative Leaders in Action program in Seattle. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA-New York and Virtual Cohort Coordinator.Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) is currently accepting applications for their 2023-2025 cohorts. Apply today: contemplativeleaders.org
“How is my Lent going so far?” I’ve most assuredly failed to live up to my own expectations for how I would create space for the Lord to show up in my life. That is why this Sunday’s readings give me so much hope.Welcome to the Fourth Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.This reflection was written by James Luisi, a member of the 2021-2023 Virtual Cohort of Contemplative Leaders in Action. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA-New York and Virtual Cohort Coordinator.
Welcome to the Third Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.The third week of Lent begins with an invitation to accept the living water of Christ. The Gospel acclamation reads, “Lord, you are truly the Savior of the world; give me living water, that I may never thirst again.”This week’s reflection was written by Andria Seneviratne, a member of the 2018-2020 Contemplative Leaders in Action program Washington, DC cohort and current DC Cohort Coordinator It is narrated by Kate André, CLA-New York and Virtual Cohort Coordinator.
Welcome to the Second Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.Pause, breathe deeply, and notice the Spirit of life around you, wherever you are. If it will help you to light a candle, brew a cup of tea, move to a more comfortable spot, or close your eyes. Be present, as much as you are able, feeling yourself held by the floor, chair, or ground. And for a few more breaths, imagine you are resting in the hands of God as we explore this week’s theme: “Openness, Listening, and Responding to God’s Call.”This reflection was written by Declan Foley, a member of the 2021-2023 Contemplative Leaders in Action program in Boston. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA-New York and Virtual Cohort Coordinator.
Lent is a time to pause and reflect on both our inner spiritual life and our outward life. It is a time to reset and push ourselves to be uncomfortable, to learn and grow forward, to become a better version of ourselves.Welcome to the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of Ignatian Young Adult Ministries, an initiative of the Office of Ignatian Spirituality.This week’s reflection was written by Grace Caldara, a member of the 2021-2023 Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) program in Boston. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA-New York and Virtual Regional Coordinator.
Welcome to Week 4 of Advent Audio Reflections, presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. As we conclude our series and make final preparations for Christmas, recall the beginning of your Advent journey. Where were you four weeks ago? What were you feeling, discerning, anticipating? How have things shifted since then? Imagine there is an Advent wreath around your heart. Take a moment to light each candle as we turn our attention, one last time, to this week’s theme: “Peace and Mercy.”This week’s reflection was written by Shateara Hall, a member of the 2021-2023 Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) Virtual cohort. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA New York and Virtual Regional Coordinator.
Welcome to Week 3 of Advent Audio Reflections, presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. Let’s pause and breathe deeply as we turn our attention to this week’s theme: “Light in the Advent Blue.”This week’s reflection was written by Bri Lazarchik, a member of the 2021-2023 Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) Virtual cohort. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA New York and Virtual Regional Coordinator.
Welcome to Week 2 of Advent Audio Reflections, presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. We invite you to pause, breathe deeply, and notice the Spirit of life around you, wherever you are. If it will help you to light a candle, brew a cup of tea, move to a more comfortable spot, or close your eyes, do it! Simply be here, now, as much as you are able today, feeling yourself held by the chair, the ground, and by God as we explore what it means “To Winnow and to Welcome.” This week’s reflection was written by Joaquin Pannunzio, a member of the 2021-2023 Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) program in New York City. It is narrated by Eric Clayton, Deputy Director of Communications for the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States.
Welcome to the Advent Audio Reflections, presented by Jesuit Connections, a program of Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. We’ll provide a short audio reflection on a theme or liturgical reading from each week in Advent. We hope these clips will deepen our personal and collective preparation for Christmas. Let’s pause for the next several minutes, take a deep breath, and enter intentionally into the First Week of Advent as we contemplate “Plans and Preparation.”This week’s reflection was written by Monika Hyatt, a member of the 2021-2023 Contemplative Leaders in Action (CLA) program in Boston. It is narrated by Kate André, CLA New York and Virtual Regional Coordinator.
Welcome to the Sixth and Final Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. we have arrived at Holy Week. As we conclude our series and make final preparations for Easter, recall the beginning of this Lenten season. Where were you on Ash Wednesday? What were you feeling that First Sunday in Lent? How have things shifted? Take a moment to return once more to the Heart of things as we explore our final theme: “Savor the Unfolding Story.”
This reflection was written by Henry Frank and narrated by Kate André. PDFs of these written reflections, along with prayers and reflection questions, are available at ignatianyoungadults.org/lent.
Welcome to the Fifth Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. As we enter into prayer, imagine there is a light in your heart, growing brighter with every breath. Shine the light from the crown of your head to the soles of your feet. Observe with compassion any tension, distractions, or desires that may want to pull you from the present moment as we explore this week’s theme.
This reflection was written by Mary Beth Cassidy and narrated by Kate André. PDFs of these written reflections, along with prayers and reflection questions, are available at ignatianyoungadults.org/lent.
Welcome to the Fourth Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. This week began with Laetare Sunday, which means we’re halfway through our Lenten journey! Laetare is Latin for “Rejoice!” As we begin our prayer, consider: How has joy manifested in your life recently? What has helped you “rejoice,” even in the midst of difficult circumstances? To what extent are you feeling far from or connected to God, your spiritual home, your beloved community, and yourself? Acknowledge the stirring of the Spirit as we dive into this week’s theme: “Remembering and Growing in Love.”
This reflection was written by Seán Patrick Sanford and narrated by Kate André. PDFs of these written reflections, along with prayers and reflection questions, are available at ignatianyoungadults.org/lent.
Welcome to the Third Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. As we enter into prayer together, begin to scan your body from the crown of your head to the soles of your feet. Notice if you are holding any tension, experiencing any sensations, and breathe. Invite God to be with you as you listen to this week’s reflection.
This reflection was written by Elise Gower and narrated by Kate André. PDFs of these written reflections, along with prayers and reflection questions, are available at ignatianyoungadults.org/lent.
Welcome to the Second Week of the Lenten audio retreat, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. We invite you to intentionally pause the busyness of ordinary life: get still, breathe deeply, and listen closely as we explore this week’s theme: “Awakening to the Extraordinary.”
This reflection was written by Joe Williams and narrated by Kate André. PDFs of these written reflections, along with prayers and reflection questions, are available at ignatianyoungadults.org/lent.
Welcome to Lenten Audio Reflections, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. We invite you to pause, breathe deeply, and notice the Spirit of life around you, wherever you are. Simply be here, now, as much as you are able today, feeling yourself held by the floor, chair, or ground. And for a few more breaths, imagine you are resting in the hands of God as we explore this week’s theme: “Desiring More in the Desert.”
This reflection was written by Lauren Gaffey and narrated by Kate André. PDFs of these written reflections, along with prayers and reflection questions, are available at ignatianyoungadults.org/news-feeds/lent-reflection-series.
Each week during Lent, we’re providing a short audio reflection on a theme or liturgical reading from that week to deepen our personal and collective preparation for Easter.
Welcome to Lenten Audio Reflections, presented by Ignatian Young Adult Ministries. Each week during Lent, we’ll provide a short audio reflection on a theme or liturgical reading from that week. These reflections will deepen our personal and collective preparation for Easter. In anticipation of Ash Wednesday, let’s pause for the next several minutes, take a deep breath, and return to the heart of the Lenten season.
This reflection was written by Sindy Collazo and narrated by Kate André. PDFs of these written reflections, along with prayers and reflection questions, are available at ignatianyoungadults.org/news-feeds/lent-reflection-series
Welcome to the Fourth Week of the Advent audio retreat, presented by Jesuit Connections and Charis Ministries. As we conclude our series and make final preparations for Christmas, recall the beginning of your Advent journey. Take a moment as we turn our attention, one last time, to this week’s theme: “The Loving Gaze.”
This reflection was written by Patrick Farmer and narrated by Kate André.
Welcome to the Third Week of the Advent audio retreat, presented by Jesuit Connections and Charis Ministries. Let’s pause and breathe deeply as we turn our attention to this week’s theme: “Gratitude and Joy."
This reflection was written by Chris Miller and narrated by Kate André.
Welcome to the Second Week of the Advent audio retreat, presented by Jesuit Connections and Charis Ministries. We invite you to pause, breathe deeply, and notice the Spirit of life around you, wherever you are. Simply be here, now, as much as you are able today, feeling yourself held by the chair, the ground, and by God as we explore this week’s theme: “Peace in Suffering.”
This reflection was written by Aimee Della Porta and narrated by Kate André.
Welcome to the Advent audio retreat, presented by Jesuit Connections and Charis Ministries. We’ll provide a short audio reflection on a theme or liturgical reading from each week in Advent. May these clips deepen our personal and collective preparation for Christmas. Now, pause for the next several minutes, take a deep breath, and enter intentionally into the First Week of Advent as we seek to “Unveil Hope.”
This reflection was written by Jennifer Sawyer and narrated by Kate André.