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.

About the Author
Brian O'Leary is an Irish Jesuit who has worked almost exclusively in the field of spirituality. After completing his doctoral studies in Rome, he joined the staff of the Centre of Ignatian Spirituality at Manresa House on Dublin's Northside. Over a fifteen-year period he directed retreats, conducted workshops, and engaged in writing. Over a further fifteen years Brian taught at the Milltown Institute of Philosophy and Theology. His courses included Ignatian spirituality, history of 16th and 17th-century spirituality, and spiritual direction. He also served for six years as the Jesuit Province's Co-ordinator of Ecumenism. Brian has shared his experience and expertise with groups on all five continents. Books published by Messenger Publications include Radical and Free: Musings on the Religious Life, God Ever Greater: Exploring Ignatian Spirituality, To Love and To Serve: Exploring the Ignatian Tradition and Ignatius Loyola: Christian Mystic

Reviews

Of all the books in this Ignatian year of celebration, this may be one of the most interesting and important contributions of all.

* The Irish Catholic *

'a clear and accessible account of how Ignatius' mysticism was rooted within the context of his life.... a detailed and challenging read.'

* Intercom magazine *

'a a passionate account...Brian O'Leary enjoys an international reputation in the world of Ignatian spirituality'

* The Tablet *

'eminently readable and penetrating... an enjoyable and insightful introduction into the mystical life of Ignatius of Loyola'

* The Furrow *



Book Information
ISBN 9781788126489
Author Brian O'Leary
Format Paperback
Page Count 120
Imprint Messenger Publications
Publisher Messenger Publications