Ignatian Spirituality Refresher Celebrates the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola

On July 31, the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the FCJ Retreat & Conference Centre welcomed 19 participants for an Ignatian Spirituality Refresher facilitated by Sr. Ann Marie Walsh, FCJ.

The morning offered a thoughtful introduction to the heart of Ignatian spirituality and its practical relevance to everyday life. Drawing on the life of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Sr. Ann Marie shared how his personal conversion following a life-changing injury became the foundation of a spirituality that continues to inspire people today. Rather than being reserved for Jesuits or religious communities, she reminded participants that Ignatian spirituality is for everyone, inviting each person to "find God in all things" and to recognize God's presence in daily life.

Throughout the session, participants explored several key themes of Ignatian spirituality, including finding God in ordinary experiences, developing a personal relationship with God, seeking the Magis, the greater good, and living as contemplatives in action. Sr. Ann Marie emphasized that holiness is not found apart from daily life but through responding to God's invitation with generosity, openness, and love.

A significant portion of the presentation focused on discernment, one of the hallmarks of Ignatian spirituality. Through practical examples from her own life and ministry, Sr. Ann Marie illustrated how discernment helps us make decisions not simply based on what we want, but by asking what God is calling us to do. Participants learned simple yet meaningful approaches to discernment, including reflecting on where they experience the greatest peace and considering choices in light of God's greater purpose.

The session concluded with a guided experience of the Ignatian Examen, a simple five-step prayer that invites us to review the past day with gratitude, recognize moments where God was present, acknowledge where we may have missed opportunities to give or receive love, and ask for God's grace for the day ahead. Participants were encouraged to make the Examen a regular spiritual practice as a way of growing in awareness of God's loving presence in everyday life.

Following the presentation, participants enjoyed a lively question-and-answer period, sharing reflections and asking about discernment, the life of St. Ignatius, and practical ways to deepen their own spiritual journey.

The Ignatian Spirituality Refresher was a meaningful way to celebrate the Feast of St. Ignatius, offering participants both inspiration and practical tools for prayer, reflection, and faithful living. The FCJ Centre is grateful to Sr. Ann Marie Walsh, FCJ, for generously sharing her wisdom and experience, and to everyone who joined us for this enriching morning.