For me, Ignatian Spirituality means community, personal introspection, growing together, and serving and befriending others. This summer, I’ve had the ability to connect with colleagues around campus through my time in the Marquette Colleagues Program, as well as participating in the Ignatian Summer Series offered by the Office of Mission and Ministry.
These opportunities have connected me with the lovely people at Marquette, but also have led me to a deeper understanding of Ignatian Spirituality and how it guides my work.
Through the Marquette Colleagues program, I learned the story of St. Ignatius and the impact Jesuit education has on students: an educational framework that encompasses lifelong learning that is holistic and committed to serving all.
One session focused on Ignatian discernment, which really spoke to me in my role as a career counselor; we use this framework to help students identify who they are, how they’ve gotten there and what their guiding values are to aid them in their decision-making. In addition to great discussion topics, we had two lovely days for community service, as well as a retreat. It was wonderful to spend time with colleagues reflecting and reconnecting with what is truly important.
The Ignatian Summer Series has also been a wonderful experience to enjoy connection to one another and to our five senses. I particularly loved the tortilla-making and walking retreat down by the lake.
I find these moments continue to allow me to build community while also grounding me to be more personally aware. I have loved being able to use my summer at Marquette to focus on relationships, personal introspection and how I want to continue to serve others at Marquette.
