What is Ignatian Spirituality?

Ignatian spirituality is a Christian spiritual tradition inspired by St. Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits. It's sometimes called "Jesuit spirituality". 

Ignatian spirituality is based on the idea that God is present in the world and active in people's lives. It emphasizes finding God in all things, reflecting on the day, and paying attention to goodness, truth, and beauty. It also encourages people to serve others with grace, respect, and inquiry, and to live by the maxim "Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam" (For the Greater Glory of God). 

Ignatian spirituality is characterized by four things that come from the Spiritual Exercises, a book written by St. Ignatius Loyola almost 500 years ago:

• A vision of God: God is alive and active in the world and in people's lives

• Realization of human potential: All people are created in God's image and are destined for eternal life

• Call to action: People should work with Christ to build the Kingdom of God

• Intimacy with Christ: People should experience intimacy with the Risen Christ 

Ignatian spirituality also values core Gospel values such as authenticity, integrity, courage, love, forgiveness, hope, healing, service, and justice.