Cut to the Heart – Dynamics of the Spiritual Exercises

As the second year Novices stepped out towards their native places for the Home Experiment, the first year Novices embarked on a beautiful journey to taste and relish the splendour and depth of the Spiritual Exercises. The captain at the bridge was none other than Fr Jossie D’Mello SJ. Giving his best to explore the dynamics of the Spiritual Exercises, Fr Jossie deftly stamped the indelible mark of the Exercises in the hearts and minds of the first Years. The course was organised in the last week of January. Here are some of the experiences of the course shared with you.

A Joseph Jerald: The course, angled on the ‘Interior knowledge’ was a boon for the first years and for me personally to know the heart and mind of St Ignatius. It aroused great desire to make our lives coincide with the Spirit of Jesus which is the Spirit of the Society of Jesus. The course presented to us a new orientation for our life after our Month-retreat experience– to see all things through the vision of St Ignatius. It is a real challenge to live our life in the spirit of Magis for the Greater Glory of God. I heard the call from God tobecome more and more Christo-centric.

Maxim Martin D’Souza: The more we learn, the more we experience. The course was like the Month-retreat in a nutshell. The course made me recollect and relive the experiences of the Long Retreat. I was able to learn more about the mind of St Ignatius and the background in which the Sp Ex were written. The five days sped away like the wind. It was a time of joyful learning and deep understanding. I am rejuvenated in my spirit.

Cannon Fernandes: I have fallen in love with Ignatian spirituality! Deep knowledge of the life of St Ignatius helps us know the real taste of the Sp Ex. The course was really fruitful. According to me the dynamics or the whole idea of the Sp Ex is condensed into two main themes – Magis and interior knowledge. Magis calls us to live life fully. Self knowledge in the light of love of God is the essence of interior knowledge. The course has shot a new ray of interest in Ignatian Spirituality in me.

“He hath freedom who bears clean and constant heart within.” Ennius