COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Ignatian Spirituality Institute

RL ISI: THE THEOLOGY OF THE SPIRITUAL EXERCISES I

This is the first of two courses on the Spiritual Exercises. Its main focus is on the theological themes underlying the pattern of the Exercises: the theology of Ignatius and his time, as well as contemporary approaches to the Exercises.

Students in this course will learn:

A general understanding of the ministry of spiritual direction, its purposes and dynamics.

A foundational knowledge of the history, theology, and dynamics of the Spiritual Exercises.

An understanding of the various movements desired in the one making the Exercises, with practical suggestions for discerning and helping people achieve these.

A knowledge of basic themes in contemporary theology consonant with the dynamics of the Exercises and with particular relevance to the spiritual life of today's Christians.

Familiarity with scriptural passages relevant to the various dynamics of the Exercises.

RL ISI: THE THEOLOGY OF THE SPIRITUAL EXERCISES II

This is the second of two courses on the Spiritual Exercises. Students are expected to learn:

A foundational knowledge of the history, theology, and dynamics of the Spiritual Exercises.

An understanding of the various movements desired in the one making the Exercises, with practical suggestions for discerning and helping people achieve these.

The development of the skill of theological reflection.

A knowledge of basic themes in contemporary theology consonant with the dynamics of the Exercises and with particular relevance to the spiritual life of today's Christians.

Familiarity with scriptural passages relevant to the various dynamics of the Exercises.

An introduction to scriptural exegesis useful for understanding and giving the Exercises.

Practice in the listening skills necessary for spiritual direction.

RL ISI: PRACTICUM IN SPIRITUAL DIRECTION

This course has a single focus: to assist the intern in beginning the exercise of the ministry of spiritual direction, and to provide practice in that ministry under supervision.
The supervision process is designed to help the beginning director:

-- to grow in the practical skills needed to help directees learn to pray and grow spiritually

-- to grow in the ability to recognize interior movements and countermovements in oneself and in one's directees (discernment of spirits)

-- to become aware of one's reactions to directees and grow in comfort with exploring the underlying reasons for those reactions

-- to grow in self awareness and interior freedom

-- to develop a contemplative stance toward one's directees

-- to become more aware of and savor God's presence in the direction and supervisory sessions

-- to recognize areas in oneself in need of further growth

-- to recognize and develop one's areas of strength

PRACTICUM REQUIREMENTS:

At least 50 contact hours with directees

Spiritual direction log

9 meetings with supervisor

Nine meetings with your supervisor

The completion of eight verbatims

Two Team Review Sessions