The Spiritual Exercises Reclaimed: Uncovering Liberating Possibilities for Women - Softcover

Dyckman, Katherine; Garvin, Mary; Liebert, Elizabeth

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0809140438 ISBN 13: 9780809140435

Publisher: Paulist Press, 2001

Synopsis

The Spiritual Exercises often seem irrelevant or even destructive to many women's spirituality. This groundbreaking work reclaims the heart of the Exercises by examining them through the lens of women's experience―both women of the past to understand their presence during the formative years of the Exercises, but primarily women of the present. In doing so the authors have rediscovered the riches of this classic for both genders. The book first reviews the major traditional interpretations of the Exercises and gives a historical view of the women in Ignatius' life and their role in the Exercises. The text itself is examined―how it is entered, its worldview, and its recommended forms of prayer. The four weeks of the Exercises are broken into the problems and possibilities of each; suggestions for each are also given for spiritual and retreat directors. The Exercises are finally examined for those aspects that support moving outward on one's mission. The book ends with a morality play called AnyWoman that gives a dramatic spin to the whole process. The first of its kind, this is deeply meaningful reading for both men and women, particularly those making the Exercises, those giving them, and anyone who has attempted the Exercises but resisted the images, metaphors, or interpretations. Retreat and spiritual directors, other educators, retreatants and directees will also want a copy. †

About this title

About the Author

Elizabeth Liebert is Professor of Spiritual Life at San Francisco Theological Seminary in San Anselmo, California. She is former Dean of the Seminary and Vice President for Academic Affairs and is the author of "The Way of Discernment", a guide to decision-making for individuals.

Review

A must read for anyone engaged in the practice of spiritual guidance. -- Wendy M. Wright

Imaginatively and courageously conceived, and grounded in extensive scholarship and pastoral practice, this is a superb resource. -- Kathleen Fischer

It is a scholarly and learned commentary on the dynamic of the Exercises from which I learned a great deal. -- William A. Barry, S.J.

This book is critical reading for anyone engaged in spiritual direction. -- Spiritual Book News

This is one of the best companion volumes on the Spiritual Exercises for all who guide others through the Exercises. --Janet K. Ruffing, R.S.M

Edition details

• Publisher: Paulist Press
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0809140438
• ISBN 13: 9780809140435
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 384