Spiritual Exercises Reclaimed Session 3

November 14, 2023

By Nancy Small

A large group of people comprised primarily of spiritual directors gathered on Nov. 14, 2023 for Session 3 of our virtual four-part series entitled Spiritual Exercises Reclaimed: Uncovering Liberating Possibilities for Women.

Guided by Sr. Elizabeth Liebert, SNJM, Ph.D., the group explored the Rules for Discernment of Spirits set forth in the Spiritual Exercises with a specific focus on the cultural, social and theological dynamics of discernment with women. Through a process that included personal reflection and group conversation, participants identified difficulties women frequently encounter in the midst of discernment.

These difficulties included estrangement from God, socialized tendencies to ignore their feelings and discount their imaginations and the pressure of social norms that present the ideal woman as one who is selfless. The group shared ways of accompanying women in discernment that promote their full humanity and lead to greater spiritual freedom.  

Session 4 of this series takes place on Dec. 12, 2023 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET, and will focus on Weeks 3 and 4 in the Spiritual Exercises and how they relate to women’s experience. 

Click here for more information and to register for the final session of the series (you will also receive the videos of the first three sessions).