The Summer 2023 Issue of The Way is now available online and in print. The practice of Spiritual Conversation came to influence the ministries of the early Jesuits. It continues to give life to the Church today. In this issue we explore the ministry from its origins to its significance in the process of synodality. We are happy have prepared this issue in collaboration with the St Beuno’s Conference on the same topic and Campion Hall.
In the lead article, available for free download here [https://www.theway.org.uk/back/623Austin.pdf], Nick Austin argues that conversation is a characteristically Ignatian ministry. Meanwhile Patrick Goujon considers whether the Spiritual Exercises are to be understood as a conversation with the director or a conversation with God. Margaret Blackie, Marion Morgan, Michael Holman and Thomas Enwright also give their own personal insights into this ministry.
Among the other highlights of the issue are Brian O’Leary’s exploration of St Ignatius’ ‘General Examen’, a spiritual conversation which sought to prepare candidates to enter the Society of Jesus. Michael Barnes bears witness to the power of Spiritual conversation in a Multi-Faith Context and we also included a transcript of a spiritual conversation with Rob Marsh, speaking about his new collection of essays ‘Imagination, Discernment and Spiritual Direction’ which can be purchased here.
We are also piloting a podcast and would be glad of your feedback so we can improve the listening experience. Carlos Chuquihuara speaks to Patrick Goujon about insights into spiritual conversation and how passion for this ministry grew in his life. You can listen to for free here. For more information about the Summer issue click here, and to subscribe click here.
Cover image: 'And He Disappeared out of Their Sight’ by Henry Ossawa Tanner (1859-1927)
