Ignatian Spirituality FINAL

Define Discernment in your own words, how is it different from decision making?

Discernment, in my own words, is a spiritual process of figuring out where God is leading you by paying attention to your inner movements, like feelings of consolation and desolation. It’s not just about simply choosing between options, but about noticing which choice draws you closer to God, gives you a sense of peace, purpose, and alignment with your values. Sometimes, especially when choosing between two good options, it can feel confusing or even like desolation at first with stress or anxiety, but through reflection and prayer, it can lead to deeper consolation trusting God’s timing. 

This is different from regular decision making because decision making is usually more surface-level and practical, like choosing what to eat or how to spend your time. It doesn’t necessarily involve spiritual reflection or deeper meaning. Discernment, on the other hand, is more intentional and reflective, focusing on long-term direction and your relationship with God rather than just making a quick or convenient choice.

How do the Principle and Foundation and Suscipe bookend the Spiritual Exercises? Use examples from class.

How do the steps of the Examen embody key tenets of Ignatian Spirituality?

What is the role of Spiritual movement in Ignatian Spirituality? How would you help a friend discern what are superficial desires and what are deeper desires?

Define consolation and desolation in your own words using the framework of Ignatius. Provide an example of both terms in action in your own life. How is it different from the “happy/crappy” binary that Consolation/Desolation is sometimes discussed?

Explain the significance of Pamplona, Manresa, Montserrat, Jerusalem, and Rome to St. Ignatius. What people, places, and events in your story match up to the movements for these places for Ignatius?

What stands out to you from the practical parts of this class – what are the movements you’ve noticed?