Search results for ""Author Brian O'Leary""

Interest in mysticism is increasing at a time when commitment to religious institutions is in decline. Mysticism, in the eyes of many, evokes the free workings of the Spirit, while churches as institutions evoke rigidity and control. That this is a distorted picture is somehow beside the point – perception often sways people more powerfully than reality. And reading the mystics, it is being discovered, benefits everyone, whether Church member or agnostic. Not too long ago Ignatius Loyola would not have appeared on a list of Christian mystics. He would have been described as a soldier-saint, the author of the Spiritual Exercises, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), a skilful organizer whose principles of governance are still studied in schools of management. If his inner life were being spoken of, he would have been placed among the ascetics rather than the mystics. Even the Spiritual Exercises were given a predominantly ascetical interpretation. Today, all that is changed. Ignatius is recognised as a major mystic in the western Christian tradition. He is now given a place beside Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. His other qualities and achievements are not downplayed as a result, but they are seen in a new light -- as flowing from the deep inner fountain that is his mystical relationship with God. The texts in which he speaks of these mystical experiences are given renewed attention – what happened at Loyola, Manresa, La Storta, and Rome. The Autobiography and Spiritual Diary, in particular, describe the events and their context, while in a more indirect way, the Spiritual Exercises are an invaluable source to be mined. In his new book, O’Leary offers a clear and accessible account of what we now know about Ignatius as a mystic. Drawing on his own familiarity with the sources, he opens up for us the inner life of Ignatius in so far as it can be known. He also hopes that the reader will resonate with something of what Ignatius is describing, thus making their reading truly transformative.

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Among the many strands in Christian spirituality, one of the most esteemed bears the name of St Ignatius Loyola. In recent years Ignatian spirituality has experienced a resurgence and is attracting interest from across the range of Christian denominations and from every walk of life. There has been a widespread desire to learn more about Ignatius and his legacy, and many people have made the Spiritual Exercises in one of its many forms and have grown through the experience. Exploring Ignatian Spirituality is written to appeal, not only to those who are looking for an introduction to Ignatian spirituality, but also to those who have some acquaintance with the Ignatian tradition. It will draw its readers into an exploration of a rich Christian heritage that continues to live and breathe today.

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This book will inspire, challenge and engage you—and transform your teaching and learning. Each chapter in this book is written by a different educator or team about their experiences with project-based learning, both in and out of the classroom. They reflect not only on the how of project-based learning, but more importantly, on the what and the why. They offer insight into how connecting with learners, honouring their experiences, and promoting deep and rich questioning can be the path to powerful projects and learning. Their writing and thinking is saturated with empathy, expertise, a desire to improve their practice, and an acknowledgment of the need to collaborate.

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