Wanted: Orthodox Jesuit center for Spiritual Exercises

[Pentecost2005]

I met with one of the priests in my parish this afternoon, and he suggested that I look into the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. He suggested that I start with the book, and then possibly a retreat – a week if possible, or at least a weekend.

“There are several Jesuit houses in the area,” he said.

“Cool,” thought I.

Well, I am downright scandalized by what I have found. There is one on Long Island and one on Staten Island, and they both offer, in addition to whatever Catholic retreats they offer, “Christian yoga,” “Catholic Zen,” and even reiki!

What is going on?

And every single Jesuit retreat house I’ve looked at online so far has an annual “golf outing,” but… whatever. What is it with Jesuits and golf, I wonder. But more to the point… what is it with Jesuits and Buddhism? What’s going on?

One of the pages mentioned that some Catholics who want a more contemplative prayer life look to Zen for a deepening of the spiritual life. I gave up on Buddhism because I realized that it left too many important questions unanswered. The last thing I need is to mix them together.

I would like to complete the Spiritual Exercises with an orthodox Catholic priest. Does it have to be a Jesuit? If so, can anyone make a recommendation?

Thank you, and Happy Pentecost.

 

[Joysong]

Dear Pentecost,

>>> He suggested that I start with the book, and then possibly a retreat

Have you taken the suggestion to start with the book? You can find a lot of help and devotion by taking it as slow as you want to, and highlighting the parts that are most meaningful to you. I have my own copy, and I can’t tell you how many times I refer back to it for his directions on discernment!

It is always heart-wrenching to find that the beautiful Order founded by a Saint, has sidetracked the Saint’s original teachings and disciplines. Thank and bless God that we have these treasures in written form for our benefit and growth

Happy Feast Day to you, also!

Carole

 

[amasimp]

Orthodox Jesuit?

Good luck. Let me know if you find one.

 

[KCT]

The Legionaries offer spiritual exercies of St. Ignatius. I go once a year. If you are in NY, see if they offer the Spex in Thrornwood. If you can’t find a phone number, I’ll see if I can. —KCT

 

[UKcatholicGuy]

amasimp:

Orthodox Jesuit?

Good luck. Let me know if you find one.

haha i was about to post the same thing

 

[Pentecost2005]

Joysong:

Have you taken the suggestion to start with the book? You can find a lot of help and devotion by taking it as slow as you want to, and highlighting the parts that are most meaningful to you. I have my own copy, and I can’t tell you how many times I refer back to it for his directions on discernment!

Oh sure, take the sane and reasonable approach.

Actually, I was planning on starting with the book. I don’t have a physical copy, but I’ve found the text at a couple of sites online.

I figured I would just look around and see what was what. At least now I won’t get my hopes up.

 

[Pentecost2005]

KCT:

The Legionaries offer spiritual exercies of St. Ignatius. I go once a year. If you are in NY, see if they offer the Spex in Thrornwood. If you can’t find a phone number, I’ll see if I can. —KCT

Thanks for the suggestion; I hadn’t thought of them yet. I found an article with the phone number and address. I will contact them and see what’s what.