Today we honor a great scholar and theologian of our Church, the founder of the Jesuits, Ignatius was sent to spread the Gospel message in whatever ways possible. The Spiritual Exercises are classic, and of great value to our Church and our culture today. The Jesuits have always been on the "cutting edge" of theology, which is perhaps why they are always held in suspicion.
When I was in seminary, we had a weekly seminar in which we would discuss our week's classes, in relationship to some theme, or issue in the Church. Of course the more we learned, and discovered how to pray and reflect, the better the sessions were. These gatherings helped us to remain focused in our study, as well as our potential ministry as priests. The ability to 'theologize,' ponder, and reflect are vastly important for our growth as faithful people. We might believe that we do not have time, but we have to make the time to do theology and the work of faith.
Not only do the saints and holy men and women have this outstanding spiritual life, but simply review the persons we meet in sacred scripture, who ponder the Word of God, wrestle with divinity, and stand in the presence of God. These persons too are doing theology as they go about searching for meaning and purpose, in addition working for justice and peace. They are struggling with some of the very same issues which we do today.
The Church shows us how important it is to ask questions, and seek the integrity and dignity, of our brothers and sisters. It really is a sign of faith to seek for truth and to uncover the God who lives in our midst.
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