In Foundations, you’ll find selection from important documents of the Society of Jesus followed by questions to spark your thoughtful reflections.  Take time to read and ponder these selections. If you feel moved, share your own comments.
___

From the Constitutions of the Society of Jesus: General Examen

Examen [101] It is likewise very important to bring to the attention of those who are being examined, emphasizing it and giving it great weight in the sight of our Creator and Lord, to how great a degree it helps and profits in the spiritual life to abhor in its totality and not in part whatever the world loves and embraces, and to accept and desire with all possible energy whatever Christ our Lord has loved and embraced.  Just as the men of the world who follow the world love and seek with such great diligence honors, fame, and esteem for a great name on earth, as the world teaches them, so those who proceed spiritually and truly follow Christ our Lord love and intensely desire everything opposite.  That is to say, they desire to clothe themselves with the same garb and uniform of their Lord because of the love and reverence owed to him, to such an extent that where there would be no offense to his Divine Majesty and no false accusations, and affronts, and to be held and esteemed as fools (but without their giving any occasion for this), because of their desire to resemble and imitate in some manner our Creator and Lord Jesus Christ, by putting on his garb and uniform, since it was for our spiritual profit that he clothed himself as he did.  For he gave us an example that in all things possible to us we might seek, with the aid of his grace, to imitate and follow him, since he is the way which leads men and women to life.  Therefore the candidate should be asked whether he finds himself with such desires, which are so salutary and fruitful for the perfection of his soul.

Source:  The Constitutions of the Society of Jesus and Their Complementary Norms (The Institute of Jesuit Sources: St. Louis, 1996)

> For reflection:  As you reflect on my knowledge of Jesus’ life and attitudes, what stands out for you as important for him?  What do you find most attractive about Jesus as a model for life?  What do you find most challenging or even unattractive?

>Even more than in the times of Ignatius, contemplating a life of service for God in the Church puts me in the category of “fools” in the eyes of many people.  Where have I felt this negative pressure, in the past or now, from others?  Where do I feel it from myself?

< Previous Next >