The pathway to salvation is followed, step by step, through the discernments we make from one moment to another. Just as one spark can kindle a fire, so too a single discernment can acquire the power to change the course of human history. Whether grace changes our perception of a given situation, invites us to act according to a certain spirit, or marks us out for some bold action, the stage is set for the work of the Spirit in our everyday lives. Though we live in a world beguiled by political ideology, true power comes into being when we detach ourselves and make a simple assent to the work of God. The salvation of the world will not be achieved through a political programme, but through innumerable discernments of Spirit that, collectively, create the impetus to work for the common good.
Patrick Riordan, ‘A Political Philosophical Perspective on the Two Standards’, 7–18
In a society marked by conflict between political groups, the Spiritual Exercises inculcate an openness to the transformation of human desire. If we allow our personal political interests to be transformed in the light of the Gospel we can work towards th
Timothy Howles, ‘Laudate Deum: An Invitation to Live in the Real World’, 19–23
Pope Francis’ latest apostolic exhortation invites us to rededicate ourselves to the task of living sustainably in the light of overwhelming evidence of ecological degradation. A new world where human dignity goes hand in hand with interconnectivity.
James Hanvey, ‘Some Political and Cultural Implications of the Spiritual Exercises’, 24–44
The Spiritual Exercises are not just for believers, but have profound implications for society and culture. The Principle and Foundation, and Meditation on the Two Standards encourage us to propose Christ and his Kingdom for the whole of humanity.
Luz Marina Díaz, ‘Reclaiming Our Original Identity: Communion, Community and Ministry’, 45–57
A phrase from the baptism narrative of Jesus is the touchstone for this article which explores the themes of communion, community and ministry in the work of Henri Nouwen to conclude that spiritual practice leads us to become aware of contemporary problem
Ruthie Baigent, ‘The Bride of Christ as Spiritual Directee: John of the Cross and Spiritual Direction’, 59–72
An innovative comparison between John of the Cross and two of the founding figures of twentieth-century postmodernism elucidates a deeper understanding of the role of the spiritual director who must be prepared to leave the social world behind to follow w
Mark Rotsaert, ‘Discreta caritas in the Writings of Ignatius Loyola’, 73–85
The commonly misunderstood phrase from the writings of Ignatius is clarified as the ‘discerning love’ that gives us the capacity to know what loving action we are to perform in any given situation.
Michael Campbell-Johnston, ‘Future Mission: An Uncertain Sound’, 87–98
Recent history has seen a shift from the colonial model of the foreign missionary to a recognition that evangelisation is to be entrusted to the local Church. One of the protagonists of that shift reflects on the invitation to let go of our political assu
Loan Le, ‘A Reflection on Spiritual Motherhood’, 99–111
The inculturation of the Gospel by female religious congregations in Vietnam has accommodated to the matriarchal structure of indigenous communities. A member of the Congregation of the Sisters of Peace reflects on the vocation to spiritual motherhood.