Over the past few weeks, I have been participating in online Ignatian Training Programme. As a Franciscan, I have become aware of some of the similarities and differences between these two major streams of Christian Spirituality.
Both St Francis of Assisi (1181/2- 1440) and Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1521) came from a military background that ended unsuccessfully. Both men later developed a romantic quality to their spirituality as they became knight troubadours for Christ, and soon gathered around themselves a growing community of followers. Both movements became significant Religious Orders in their own right with their own ethos and ministry.
There are, though, marked differences between the two men and the Franciscan and Ignatian forms of spirituality.
The Franciscan Way is one of simplicity. It is personal and devotional. God is found in all things: in the simple things of life; the colours of creation; the warmth of human friendship; the stillness of a church at prayer; in the sharing of meal whether it be in a church or food given to the poor and hungry. Francis wished to find and follow his beloved Christ everywhere; to become literally, the hands and feet of Christ, especially to those in need.
The Ignatian Way is also focused on finding God in all things, especially in one's desires, feelings and emotions. I find his spirituality to be more formal and regulated. It has contributed much to the intellectual life of the Church, and encourages all things to be done for 'The Greater Glory of God'.
What does appeal to me in the Ignatian programme I am doing is the way it uses symbols to help me recall real life events. It uses passages of scripture to inspire me. And it encourages me to make a choice to share what I have experienced, and if needed, to weave that change into the way I live.
If St Francis inspires me to try and follow the Way of Jesus, St Ignatius inspires me to 'read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest' the teachings of Jesus.
Kia mau te rongo me te pai ki a koe i to haerenga
May you find peace and goodwill on your journey.
Phil
