The principle of "agere contra"

[HomeschoolDad]

Can the Ignatian term “agere contra” (“to act against”) be used to describe a scenario where a person goes against their own desires and wishes, and makes a sacrifice for the greater good, the glory of God, and the salvation of souls? In other words, taking on a course of action that is not preferred, but is a heroic act, out of a sense of duty?

I have in mind, for instance, a man who might prefer to get married and have a family, but sees a higher calling in the priesthood, an opportunity to help many others save their souls and to give greater glory to God, and follows it.

I realize that the more common use of the term agere contra is to act against those impulses that are not conducive to sanctity, but may the term also be interpreted in the way I describe?

 

[Margaret_Ann]

Have you ever made the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius? Agere contra is the 6th Rule of the 1st Week. The 5th Rule is “In time of desolation, do not make a change.” Example: You are dry and don’t feel like praying (desolation). Agere contra - act against the desolation by adding an extra prayer/penance (obviously, with your director’s/confessor’s permission). That’s agere contra.

 

[HomeschoolDad]

Have you ever made the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius? Agere contra is the 6th Rule of the 1st Week. The 5th Rule is “In time of desolation, do not make a change.” Example: You are dry and don’t feel like praying (desolation). Agere contra - act against the desolation by adding an extra prayer/penance (obviously, with your director’s/confessor’s permission). That’s agere contra.

I read the book in college but never formally made the Exercises. I see what you are saying. Thanks.

 

[CilladeRoma]

The Spiritual Exercises are not meant to be “read”, they are supposed to be experienced. Preferably with an experienced director.

 

[Margaret_Ann]

Where do you live? I know 3 retreat houses that offer the Spiritual Exercises. Pm me, please. Thank you.

 

[po18guy]

Sounds a lot like Luke 9:23-24 to me.

 

[HomeschoolDad]

The Spiritual Exercises are not meant to be “read”, they are supposed to be experienced. Preferably with an experienced director.

I understand that, I was merely reading the book for spiritual benefit and knowledge.

 

[CilladeRoma]

You don’t get any spiritual benefit from reading the Exercises, you must do them.