Happy Feast of Saint Ignatius!

In preparation for Ignatius Day, I would like to offer a quick summary of the Jesuit presence in San Francisco, CA, along with some Ignatian vocabulary. Do you speak Ignatian?

Summary of Jesuit Presence in San Francisco

1. University of San Francisco (USF): Founded in 1855 as St. Ignatius Academy, USF was one of the first racially integrated universities in the U.S. The university declined an invitation to the 1951 Orange Bowl because the team refused to leave its Black players behind.
2. St. Ignatius Church: Completed in 1914, this iconic church on the USF campus has been a central part of the Jesuit presence in San Francisco. The church has been rebuilt and relocated several times due to various factors, including the 1906 earthquake and fire.
3. St. Agnes Church: Administered by the Jesuits, St. Agnes Church began its Jesuit administration with Rev. Russell J. Roide, S.J., and is currently led by Fr. Alejandro Báez as parish administrator. The church is known for its welcoming community, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals and women, and is celebrated for having some of the most amazing liturgies in the Bay Area.
4. Social Justice and Ecology: Jesuits in San Francisco have a strong commitment to social justice and ecological sustainability. USF met its goal of zero net carbon emissions in 2019, 31 years ahead of its 2050 target date.
5. Innovative Education: USF is known for its progressive education model, integrating reason, religion, science, and spirituality. This approach prepares students to tackle complex global issues with a comprehensive perspective.
6. Jesuit Retreat Centers: The Jesuits run several retreat and spirituality centers in the area (Ignatian Spiritual Life Center and Los Altos Retreat Center) promoting Ignatian spirituality and offering spaces for reflection and spiritual growth.
7. Community Engagement: The Jesuits in San Francisco are deeply involved in local communities through various social ministries, focusing on issues like poverty, education, and immigration.
8. Historical Impact: The Jesuits have played a significant role in shaping the educational landscape of San Francisco, from founding schools and colleges to advocating for civil rights and social justice.
9. Cultural Integration: The Jesuits have a long history of working with diverse populations in San Francisco, fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates different cultures and traditions.
10. Spiritual Exercises: Jesuit spirituality, particularly the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, is a central part of their ministry in San Francisco. These exercises are designed to help individuals deepen their relationship with God.
11. Interfaith Dialogue: The Jesuits in San Francisco are committed to interreligious dialogue, promoting understanding and collaboration among different faith communities.

Ignatian Vocabulary

Here are some major vocabulary words and concepts central to Ignatian spirituality:

• Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (AMDG): For the Greater Glory of God, the motto of the Jesuits.
• Discernment: The process of making choices in the context of faith, considering where God is leading.
• Examen: A daily prayerful reflection on the events of the day to discern God’s presence and direction.
• Magis: A Latin term meaning “more” or “greater,” referring to the philosophy of doing more for Christ and for others.
• Cura Personalis: Care for the individual person, a hallmark of Jesuit education and ministry.
• Finding God in All Things: The belief that God can be found in every aspect of life and creation.
• Ignatian Indifference: An attitude of openness and freedom to respond to God’s call without attachment to a particular outcome.
• Contemplatives in Action: The balance of prayerful reflection and active service in the world.
• Men and Women for Others: A call to live in solidarity with and serve others, especially the poor and marginalized.
• Spiritual Exercises: A series of meditations, prayers, and mental exercises designed by St. Ignatius to deepen one’s relationship with God.

DDo you speak Ignatian? Are you familiar with these terms? Have you encountered them? More importantly, do you incorporate them into your daily life?

Blessed Weekend and Ignatius Day! 

EExtra Resources: https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/25-ignatian-terms-to-know/