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The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything: A Spirituality for Real Life
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER. WINNER OF THE CHRISTOPHER AWARD.
The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything by the Revered James Martin, SJ (bestselling author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage) is a practical spiritual guidebook that shows you how to manage relationships, money, work, prayer, and decision-making, all while keeping a sense of humor.
Inspired by the life and teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, this book will help you realize the Ignatian goal of “finding God in all things.” Filled with relatable examples, humorous stories, and anecdotes from the heroic and inspiring lives of Jesuit saints and average priests and brothers, The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything will enrich your everyday life with spiritual guidance and history.
Inspired by the life and teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus and centered around the Ignatian goal of “finding God in all things,” The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything is filled with user-friendly examples, humorous stories, and anecdotes from the heroic and inspiring lives of Jesuit saints and average priests and brothers, The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything is sure to appeal to fans of Kathleen Norris, Richard Rohr, Anne Lamott, and other Christian Spiritual writers.
The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything by the Revered James Martin, SJ (bestselling author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage) is a practical spiritual guidebook that shows you how to manage relationships, money, work, prayer, and decision-making, all while keeping a sense of humor.
Inspired by the life and teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, this book will help you realize the Ignatian goal of “finding God in all things.” Filled with relatable examples, humorous stories, and anecdotes from the heroic and inspiring lives of Jesuit saints and average priests and brothers, The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything will enrich your everyday life with spiritual guidance and history.
Inspired by the life and teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus and centered around the Ignatian goal of “finding God in all things,” The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything is filled with user-friendly examples, humorous stories, and anecdotes from the heroic and inspiring lives of Jesuit saints and average priests and brothers, The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything is sure to appeal to fans of Kathleen Norris, Richard Rohr, Anne Lamott, and other Christian Spiritual writers.
436 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
1968 people are currently reading
6776 people want to read
About the author
James Martin
51 books1,014 followersJames Martin, SJ is a Jesuit priest, writer, editor at large of the Jesuit magazine America, and consultor to the Vatican's Secretariat for Communication.
Fr. Martin grew up in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, United States, and attended Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business in 1982 and worked in corporate finance at General Electric for six years. Dissatisfied with the corporate world, he entered the Society of Jesus (more commonly known as the Jesuits) in 1988, and after completing his Jesuit training (which included studies in philosophy and theology, as well as full time-ministry) was ordained a priest in 1999. He received his Master's in Divinity (M.Div.) and Master's in Theology (Th.M.) from the Weston Jesuit School of Theology (now part of Boston College).
During his Jesuit training, Martin worked in a hospital for the seriously ill and a homeless shelter in Boston, with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in Jamaica, with street-gang members in Chicago, in a prison in Boston, and for two years with East African refugees in Nairobi, Kenya, with the Jesuit Refugee Service. In addition to his work at America magazine, Fr. Martin has written or edited more than 15 books, most of which are about spirituality and religion. He is a frequent commentator on religion and spirituality and has appeared on all the major networks, served as an expert commentator for ABC for the papal conclave that elected Pope Francis, and has written for many outlets, including the New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
Father Martin's best known books The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything (2010) and Jesus: A Pilgrimage were both New York Times bestsellers; My Life with the Saints was named a Publishers Weekly Best Book; and all three were winners of the Christopher Award.
He has received over 15 honorary degrees from Catholic colleges and universities, and in 2017 Pope Francis appointed him as consultor to the Vatican's Secretariat for Communication.
Fr. Martin grew up in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, United States, and attended Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business in 1982 and worked in corporate finance at General Electric for six years. Dissatisfied with the corporate world, he entered the Society of Jesus (more commonly known as the Jesuits) in 1988, and after completing his Jesuit training (which included studies in philosophy and theology, as well as full time-ministry) was ordained a priest in 1999. He received his Master's in Divinity (M.Div.) and Master's in Theology (Th.M.) from the Weston Jesuit School of Theology (now part of Boston College).
During his Jesuit training, Martin worked in a hospital for the seriously ill and a homeless shelter in Boston, with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in Jamaica, with street-gang members in Chicago, in a prison in Boston, and for two years with East African refugees in Nairobi, Kenya, with the Jesuit Refugee Service. In addition to his work at America magazine, Fr. Martin has written or edited more than 15 books, most of which are about spirituality and religion. He is a frequent commentator on religion and spirituality and has appeared on all the major networks, served as an expert commentator for ABC for the papal conclave that elected Pope Francis, and has written for many outlets, including the New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
Father Martin's best known books The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything (2010) and Jesus: A Pilgrimage were both New York Times bestsellers; My Life with the Saints was named a Publishers Weekly Best Book; and all three were winners of the Christopher Award.
He has received over 15 honorary degrees from Catholic colleges and universities, and in 2017 Pope Francis appointed him as consultor to the Vatican's Secretariat for Communication.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 747 reviews
March 28, 2010
Religious, and specifically Christian, books can be a challenging lot. On the one hand there are plenty of great theological texts to read (Augustine, Aquinas, Calvin, Rahner, Barth, etc), but suffice it to say they are not the type of book you curl up with at the end of the day. On the other hand, there are too many "Christian-lite" books (I'll be nice and not name names) which touch on Christian themes, but lack the depth to really challenge the faithful.
With his rather bold title, The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, James Martin, SJ looks like he would fall in the latter category. But happily, what we find here is a treatment of the Christian faith (through a Jesuit lens) which is not difficult to digest, but will challenge the reader to reexamine their stance toward faith. This is not just wordplay when I say "stance toward faith." Martin honestly and respectfully engages readers who may be atheists or agnostics, as well as any Christian still examining their faith. He does note that much of what he offers from his Jesuit life could be adopted by non-Christians. But give Martin credit for not being embarrassed of his faith and making a strong case for Christianity.
Martin acknowledges his own wordplay when he addresses his title. "It's not a guide to understanding everything about everything (thus the Almost). Rather, it's a guide to discovering how God can be found in every dimension of your life." The essence of the book is that every aspect of your life is spiritual -- faith is not just concerned with your thoughts on God, but what you say in those emails to a coworker. This is the first of four definitions that comes from Jesuit spirituality, namely, that everything in your life is important. The second idea is "contemplative in action," in which Martin outlines how a contemplative life translates into an active life. This theme plays a major role throughout the book as Martin explores how those of us who are not Jesuits can still actively incorporate spirituality into our lives. Third, not only is everything important, but God can be found everywhere. This carries the theological phrase of incarnational spirituality, but the idea is simple. Finally, many readers may be surprised to hear that people who pledge obedience see their spiritual life as one of freedom and detachment from distracting influences as opposed to a set of rules to follow.
Martin spends a great deal of time looking at the role of prayer in our lives. Again he is not afraid to challenge, as he does with the conventional excuse of "busyness," when it comes to why we find prayer challenging. One of Martin's strengths is that he understands the challenges of the working world. He came to his own faith decisions after a, ahem, active collegiate experience and after having a successful business career. He knows what many people deal with daily, and although not the head of a family, he understands the stresses the life of a parent has to contend with in addition to finding prayer time. But he points out that all relationships need nurturing, and our relationship with God is no different.
He offers several options, but his focus on "The Examen" is the most enlightening. This Jesuit prayer is central to the Jesuit way of life. Created by the Jesuit founder, St. Ignatius Loyola (and Jesuit spirituality is often called Ignatian spirituality), this prayer takes a person through five steps at the end of the day. The prayer focuses on the course of the day. In Martin's version (and we learn throughout that Jesuits are a pretty flexible lot on faith issues) we start with gratitude for what went well, and then review all actions of the day. When we recall events we are sorry for we have reached the third step, which leads naturally to seeking forgiveness, step four. Finally, we seek God's grace for the coming day.
Simple as it sounds, and it is simple, the prayer reinforces that idea of all aspects of your life are important to God. All our actions should reflect our faith, and when we fail, we should seek to remedy our wrongs. Regardless of one's faith inclination, a thorough review of the day and an accounting for one's actions is bound to create opportunities to move forward.
Martin's explanations of the vows of obedience, chastity, and poverty are enlightening in not only understanding what those vows mean, but what they have to do with the rest of us. No, he is not promoting worldwide chastity in the normal sense, but he does argue that loving chastely lets those even in sexual relationships realize there are many ways to express love. In a sex-obsessed culture, this rather obvious line of thinking is desperately needed.
This is how Martin works throughout the book. He explains how Jesuit's think and why, and then looks to tie it in with everyday life for the non-Jesuits of the world. While it sounds simple, it is challenging in both content and translation to life. If you just want an easy "feel good" book or "10 steps to live like a Jesuit," look elsewhere. If you want to think about faith and how it underlies your life, this is the place to start. But not to worry, Martin does all this with a sense of humor. He knows when some thinking sounds funny, and he points it out. He loves to tell Jesuit jokes, almost always at the expense of Jesuits, and the book is filled with real-life stories to illustrate his points. How often do you get to read a priest talk about being overwhelmed by sexual obsession just weeks before ordination? Martin does, and he spares himself little in the telling of tales. But his honesty and humor make all this thinking that more fun. And after all, if we cannot enjoy our faith, we must be missing something.
With his rather bold title, The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, James Martin, SJ looks like he would fall in the latter category. But happily, what we find here is a treatment of the Christian faith (through a Jesuit lens) which is not difficult to digest, but will challenge the reader to reexamine their stance toward faith. This is not just wordplay when I say "stance toward faith." Martin honestly and respectfully engages readers who may be atheists or agnostics, as well as any Christian still examining their faith. He does note that much of what he offers from his Jesuit life could be adopted by non-Christians. But give Martin credit for not being embarrassed of his faith and making a strong case for Christianity.
Martin acknowledges his own wordplay when he addresses his title. "It's not a guide to understanding everything about everything (thus the Almost). Rather, it's a guide to discovering how God can be found in every dimension of your life." The essence of the book is that every aspect of your life is spiritual -- faith is not just concerned with your thoughts on God, but what you say in those emails to a coworker. This is the first of four definitions that comes from Jesuit spirituality, namely, that everything in your life is important. The second idea is "contemplative in action," in which Martin outlines how a contemplative life translates into an active life. This theme plays a major role throughout the book as Martin explores how those of us who are not Jesuits can still actively incorporate spirituality into our lives. Third, not only is everything important, but God can be found everywhere. This carries the theological phrase of incarnational spirituality, but the idea is simple. Finally, many readers may be surprised to hear that people who pledge obedience see their spiritual life as one of freedom and detachment from distracting influences as opposed to a set of rules to follow.
Martin spends a great deal of time looking at the role of prayer in our lives. Again he is not afraid to challenge, as he does with the conventional excuse of "busyness," when it comes to why we find prayer challenging. One of Martin's strengths is that he understands the challenges of the working world. He came to his own faith decisions after a, ahem, active collegiate experience and after having a successful business career. He knows what many people deal with daily, and although not the head of a family, he understands the stresses the life of a parent has to contend with in addition to finding prayer time. But he points out that all relationships need nurturing, and our relationship with God is no different.
He offers several options, but his focus on "The Examen" is the most enlightening. This Jesuit prayer is central to the Jesuit way of life. Created by the Jesuit founder, St. Ignatius Loyola (and Jesuit spirituality is often called Ignatian spirituality), this prayer takes a person through five steps at the end of the day. The prayer focuses on the course of the day. In Martin's version (and we learn throughout that Jesuits are a pretty flexible lot on faith issues) we start with gratitude for what went well, and then review all actions of the day. When we recall events we are sorry for we have reached the third step, which leads naturally to seeking forgiveness, step four. Finally, we seek God's grace for the coming day.
Simple as it sounds, and it is simple, the prayer reinforces that idea of all aspects of your life are important to God. All our actions should reflect our faith, and when we fail, we should seek to remedy our wrongs. Regardless of one's faith inclination, a thorough review of the day and an accounting for one's actions is bound to create opportunities to move forward.
Martin's explanations of the vows of obedience, chastity, and poverty are enlightening in not only understanding what those vows mean, but what they have to do with the rest of us. No, he is not promoting worldwide chastity in the normal sense, but he does argue that loving chastely lets those even in sexual relationships realize there are many ways to express love. In a sex-obsessed culture, this rather obvious line of thinking is desperately needed.
This is how Martin works throughout the book. He explains how Jesuit's think and why, and then looks to tie it in with everyday life for the non-Jesuits of the world. While it sounds simple, it is challenging in both content and translation to life. If you just want an easy "feel good" book or "10 steps to live like a Jesuit," look elsewhere. If you want to think about faith and how it underlies your life, this is the place to start. But not to worry, Martin does all this with a sense of humor. He knows when some thinking sounds funny, and he points it out. He loves to tell Jesuit jokes, almost always at the expense of Jesuits, and the book is filled with real-life stories to illustrate his points. How often do you get to read a priest talk about being overwhelmed by sexual obsession just weeks before ordination? Martin does, and he spares himself little in the telling of tales. But his honesty and humor make all this thinking that more fun. And after all, if we cannot enjoy our faith, we must be missing something.
July 12, 2010
Let me preface my review by saying that, despite being almost completely educated by Catholics (only high school was public for me, and the second time I went to graduate school, that college wasn't Catholic), and despite my parents being devout and attending Mass every week, I never had a blind faith in either the church or in God. However, as an adult, I made a conscious decision that God in my life only made my life better, that I was a happier, more fulfilled person because of my faith. Now, though, I consider myself more of a Quaker, and attend 'Meetings' at least three times a month and attend Mass maybe once or twice a month. All that being said, I'm not sure if my favorable opinion of The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything is because of my faith; I'm pretty sure anyone, agnostic, Jew, Protestant, even an atheist, would like this book. It's really more about how to live your life more fully, more calmly, in a more loving manner towards everyone, and, if you happen to believe in God, there are tips on how prayer can be more fulfilling as well, how your relationship, or as author James Martin would say, your 'friendship' with God can be more satisfying. There's also a lot of Martin's anecdotes about his training to be a Jesuit, his time spent working in very poor, urban areas of the U.S., and his work in Africa. There's also a lot of history of the church, and especially of St. Ignatius Loyola, who founded the Jesuits. Furthermore, the title is not at all misleading. Martin discusses how the Jesuit way of thinking can enhance just about everything in one's life, from their work, to their raising children, to their sex lives. A very good book that I highly recommend.
August 20, 2019
This hugely popular book - 4,836 ratings with an average of 4.31 stars - was an interesting read. I learnt a reasonable amount about Jesuit spirituality, and Martin has a lovely light touch and great sense of humour. As with a lot of the religious books I've been reading the book gave me things to think about, and it was good to broaden my horizons.
Derek Emmerson's review is infinitely better than anything I might write about this book...so I'm just going to refer you to that:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Derek Emmerson's review is infinitely better than anything I might write about this book...so I'm just going to refer you to that:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
November 18, 2018
Read in 2012. This is one of best books I've ever read. It had a profound impact on my life. Father Martin is able to communicate fundamental concepts and wisdom in a very modern and effective way.
2017 update - too bad recently Fr Martin has turned very political. That is taking him away from his original focus (and the focus of this book) which was to make the beauty of Catholicism more accessible and understandable to everyone. In these days everything he says seems to have the central aim to attack the current US administration.
2017 update - too bad recently Fr Martin has turned very political. That is taking him away from his original focus (and the focus of this book) which was to make the beauty of Catholicism more accessible and understandable to everyone. In these days everything he says seems to have the central aim to attack the current US administration.
December 16, 2024
This is an amusing and lighthearted approach to living a prayerful and blessed life. Lots of good advice with a few jokes thrown in. I found it interesting that the author worked for GE before becoming a Jesuit priest. So did I, the difference being that I stuck it out in that place for nearly twenty years and I’m still trying to find myself.
January 5, 2016
I'm not going to be coy: I have a schoolgirl crush on Fr. Martin. I know, I know. He's a priest, Juliette, but I can explain. He's smart. He's a practicing Catholic. He's funny. He's sarcastic. I await his Facebook posts every day. He's my ideal man ... only ... with a Roman collar. And I'm not a
The Thorn Birds
kind of girl. It's okay, though. There are other fish in the sea, and I only need to cast my net. (“Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.” Luke 5:5)
I love Fr. Martin's writing style. It's not stuffy, academic, or overbearingly religious. It's more like having coffee with a friend, confiding to that friend, and listening to that friend's response.
Although Fr. Martin says that atheists and non-Christians are able to use the guide, I can't speak to that. (I've only ever been a ... "questioning Catholic" for a few years of my life.) However, I think the Ignatian guide isn't something that's unique to Jesuits and Catholics. It's a review of your day. If you're a believer, you reflect on your day for glimpses of God. If you're not, I'd guess that you'd just meditate on your day.
I myself was skeptical of this practice: what's the purpose? However, lately, I've found myself reviewing my day in the scant seconds after my head hits the pillow and before I fall asleep, and it helps put the words I've said and the deeds I've committed into perspective. I find myself praying for the people who've upset me and asking God that I do better tomorrow, to take the bad things and make them work for the bigger picture. Sometimes, I fall asleep mid-prayer, and, as another priest told me, what better way to fall asleep than talking to the one who loves you?
More than the Ignatian meditation, the part that I found most helpful was the idea that God put desires in you for a purpose. Throughout my Catholic school education, I was told that desire is a very bad thing. "Don't want, Juliette. Don't aim for what you shouldn't have." Fr. Martin doesn't say to launch yourself into the arms of that married man, but he says to consider what you're desiring. Why do I want this? What do I want from this? Is this going to be beneficial for me? True desires are God's handiwork. They're not evil.
For years, and while reading the book, I was wrestling with a personal choice. I wanted to commit to something, but I always refrained from taking the first step. My heart felt uneasy when I thought about it. I felt a sadness in my soul. I was tormented. I didn't desire the act that I wanted to choose. But why? Isn't this right?
While reading the book, I considered the desires that were preventing me from making that commitment. I realized that the desire was stronger than what I thought was the "right path." Maybe that action is right for some, but not for me.
So, thank you, Fr. Martin.
There's more that I can say about the book, and there's more to be said by others about this book, but my lunch break is over.
I love Fr. Martin's writing style. It's not stuffy, academic, or overbearingly religious. It's more like having coffee with a friend, confiding to that friend, and listening to that friend's response.
Although Fr. Martin says that atheists and non-Christians are able to use the guide, I can't speak to that. (I've only ever been a ... "questioning Catholic" for a few years of my life.) However, I think the Ignatian guide isn't something that's unique to Jesuits and Catholics. It's a review of your day. If you're a believer, you reflect on your day for glimpses of God. If you're not, I'd guess that you'd just meditate on your day.
I myself was skeptical of this practice: what's the purpose? However, lately, I've found myself reviewing my day in the scant seconds after my head hits the pillow and before I fall asleep, and it helps put the words I've said and the deeds I've committed into perspective. I find myself praying for the people who've upset me and asking God that I do better tomorrow, to take the bad things and make them work for the bigger picture. Sometimes, I fall asleep mid-prayer, and, as another priest told me, what better way to fall asleep than talking to the one who loves you?
More than the Ignatian meditation, the part that I found most helpful was the idea that God put desires in you for a purpose. Throughout my Catholic school education, I was told that desire is a very bad thing. "Don't want, Juliette. Don't aim for what you shouldn't have." Fr. Martin doesn't say to launch yourself into the arms of that married man, but he says to consider what you're desiring. Why do I want this? What do I want from this? Is this going to be beneficial for me? True desires are God's handiwork. They're not evil.
For years, and while reading the book, I was wrestling with a personal choice. I wanted to commit to something, but I always refrained from taking the first step. My heart felt uneasy when I thought about it. I felt a sadness in my soul. I was tormented. I didn't desire the act that I wanted to choose. But why? Isn't this right?
While reading the book, I considered the desires that were preventing me from making that commitment. I realized that the desire was stronger than what I thought was the "right path." Maybe that action is right for some, but not for me.
So, thank you, Fr. Martin.
There's more that I can say about the book, and there's more to be said by others about this book, but my lunch break is over.
"When you work, give your all. When you make plans, plan boldly. And when you dream, dream big .... Anyone who dreams of doing great things for God can live out the magis -- whether you are a father caring for your young child, a middle-aged woman nursing your aging parents, or an inner-city teacher working overtime to tutor a needy student. Great works are often quiet works."
November 12, 2015
Father’s Martin’s book is what it claims to be—a ‘spirituality for real life’. It’s an immensely practical ‘guide to discovering how God can be found in every dimension of your life. How God can be found in everything. And everyone, too.’ Martin’s writing is humorous, light-hearted and easy-to-read. And it’s a book you can feel comfortable recommending to people from widely varied backgrounds—as the numerous positive reviews here on GRs indicate.
As a guide, it could be used on one’s own or even in a group study. We find God, grow closer to Him, communicate with Him and deepen our relationship. Although the perspective is primarily Ignatian, there are vignettes, quotes, and sidebars drawn from other faiths as well as Catholic religious traditions which enrich the overall experience.
All that said, I wouldn’t recommend this book across the board to all readers. Martin’s breadth and depth of knowledge of all-things-spiritual makes reading it like drinking from a firehose. There are so many references in some chapters as to give it a feel of a textbook. I don’t offer this as a criticism, but only point it out as its value as reference material.
As a Carmelite, my heart knows it needs the discipline of the soldier saint, Ignatius. I did the Spiritual Exercises years ago and they were excellent! Yet I never managed to find a comfortable home with this particular spirituality. Still I return to it because I see the beauty, balance and rigor. I didn’t expect to like this book nearly so much as I did.
I highly recommend this book for seekers. Everything in it isn’t for everyone, but it certainly has something for everyone. It is best read slowly and prayerfully.
=====================================
Friend loaned me this so I'm setting aside other books to read this first...
If you need a brief definition of Ignatian spirituality: 1.) finding God in all things; 2.) becoming a contemplative in action; 3.) looking at the world in in an incarnational way; and 4.) seeking freedom and detachment. p. 10
As a guide, it could be used on one’s own or even in a group study. We find God, grow closer to Him, communicate with Him and deepen our relationship. Although the perspective is primarily Ignatian, there are vignettes, quotes, and sidebars drawn from other faiths as well as Catholic religious traditions which enrich the overall experience.
All that said, I wouldn’t recommend this book across the board to all readers. Martin’s breadth and depth of knowledge of all-things-spiritual makes reading it like drinking from a firehose. There are so many references in some chapters as to give it a feel of a textbook. I don’t offer this as a criticism, but only point it out as its value as reference material.
As a Carmelite, my heart knows it needs the discipline of the soldier saint, Ignatius. I did the Spiritual Exercises years ago and they were excellent! Yet I never managed to find a comfortable home with this particular spirituality. Still I return to it because I see the beauty, balance and rigor. I didn’t expect to like this book nearly so much as I did.
I highly recommend this book for seekers. Everything in it isn’t for everyone, but it certainly has something for everyone. It is best read slowly and prayerfully.
=====================================
Friend loaned me this so I'm setting aside other books to read this first...
If you need a brief definition of Ignatian spirituality: 1.) finding God in all things; 2.) becoming a contemplative in action; 3.) looking at the world in in an incarnational way; and 4.) seeking freedom and detachment. p. 10
June 25, 2012
Let me just start by saying that this book kept me from leaving my lifelong Catholic faith on two occasions. Fr. Martin has written a book that reminds us of the good that is in Christian faith, especially Catholicism, in a time filled with troubles. He makes the teachings of the Jesuits easily comprehensible and applicable to everyone's life. I especially remember section on finding God in everything (not to be confused with worshiping everything). Fr. Martin's book also reminds us of the importance desire plays in our spiritual life. I know that desire and the Church often don't seem to walk hand-in-hand, but this book does an excellent job of explaining how desire can lead us in the right direction and not towards condemnation. Fr. Martin's life stories add much to the narrative because in his experiences you see a human being who has struggled and emerged with a stronger spirituality and an intact sense of humor. I recommend this book not only to Catholics (and I would strongly recommend it to them), but also anyone looking for spiritual guidance on the road of life. Many books on spirituality can be dry and unapproachable, too philosophical for everyday living. But here is a book that has deep implications while still being accessible and fun to read. I always imagined myself as a Franciscan-leaning sort of guy, but the beauty of the teachings contained in this book have nudged me into the Jesuit camp!
April 14, 2013
The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything is a nice book and recommended to be read by ordained ministers(bishop, priests, nuns, etc.) and even by ordinary people.
Fr. James Martin, SJ discusses in this book on the secrets of living the Ignatian Spirit that was pass down from the Jesuit founder himself St. Ignatius of Loyola to the present Jesuits around the world.
It is nice that the writer of this book allowed us to gain access of the life of a Jesuit and allowing us to practice their ways even though some of us are not in the ordained ministry.
Thank you Fr. James Martin for sharing to us the Ignatian ways of living a life of prayer and work.
I give it a 5 out 5 stars.
Fr. James Martin, SJ discusses in this book on the secrets of living the Ignatian Spirit that was pass down from the Jesuit founder himself St. Ignatius of Loyola to the present Jesuits around the world.
It is nice that the writer of this book allowed us to gain access of the life of a Jesuit and allowing us to practice their ways even though some of us are not in the ordained ministry.
Thank you Fr. James Martin for sharing to us the Ignatian ways of living a life of prayer and work.
I give it a 5 out 5 stars.
August 23, 2010
Fantastic book. My only criticism would have to do with a bit of the "writing from a bubble" that one can perceive in passages where the story seems to be more about the effect on oneself than on the people involved. A very Zen attitude that is common in writings from people in large communities or sheltered by them. The very reason why I would never trust spiritual advice from wealthy people.
However, Jesuits themselves are not wealthy and , of all religious orders, they tend to be a lot more engaged in the world than other groups. And by the world I mean all of it, mostly the poor, unlike the Opus Dei an other conservative (atrophied?) branches of the Catholic Church interested only in their own permanence.
This book is extremely open minded and has not a single recrimination against communists, gays, atheists or other religions. That's a good start. Moreover, it appreciates the discourse brought about for example by atheists, people with a high bull-meter when it comes to religious speech. It is however clear in its goal of approaching the seeker to God according to Saint Ignatius writings as he left them in the"Spiritual Exercises". That is also excellent. let's not beat around the bush. However helpful you might find the guidance, there is a purpose. As an agnostic myself Ii hate being "led" and i appreciate how this book doesn't just repeat dogmas and saintly quotes.
The book is long but humorous, even a bit quirky so it is not hard to read. Lists abound. The core of the book is an aid to gain more freedom-including freedom from religion i might add. It has a very good chapter in making decisions and another nice chapter regarding beneficial friendships. Anybody stands to enjoy the exploration of their own attachments or dissipate some confusion.
However, Jesuits themselves are not wealthy and , of all religious orders, they tend to be a lot more engaged in the world than other groups. And by the world I mean all of it, mostly the poor, unlike the Opus Dei an other conservative (atrophied?) branches of the Catholic Church interested only in their own permanence.
This book is extremely open minded and has not a single recrimination against communists, gays, atheists or other religions. That's a good start. Moreover, it appreciates the discourse brought about for example by atheists, people with a high bull-meter when it comes to religious speech. It is however clear in its goal of approaching the seeker to God according to Saint Ignatius writings as he left them in the"Spiritual Exercises". That is also excellent. let's not beat around the bush. However helpful you might find the guidance, there is a purpose. As an agnostic myself Ii hate being "led" and i appreciate how this book doesn't just repeat dogmas and saintly quotes.
The book is long but humorous, even a bit quirky so it is not hard to read. Lists abound. The core of the book is an aid to gain more freedom-including freedom from religion i might add. It has a very good chapter in making decisions and another nice chapter regarding beneficial friendships. Anybody stands to enjoy the exploration of their own attachments or dissipate some confusion.
August 24, 2017
I went to a Jesuit college half a century ago and while I vaguely recall the sequence of the required courses in religion and philosophy (based on Thomas Aquinas' medieval scholasticism), carefully arranged as if they were a permanent pipeline to the TRUTH, the actual content of the courses has pretty much evaporated.
What stands out, though, was the dreaded “orals” examination in which a trembling student appeared in front of a panel of three Jesuits to answer questions about his knowledge of the philosophy and theology that he was supposed to have mastered. A failure to answer satisfactorily these questions, and he didn’t graduate. In practice, the Jesuits were lenient and almost all students stumbled successfully through the exam, but the thought of going into this room to be orally tested was traumatic for a lot of students.
All of these courses were, presumably, to "guide" me through life, but their success was problematic, at least for me. So when I saw THE JESUIT GUIDE TO (ALMOST) EVERYTHING, I thought, good, I'll find out what has been missing from my life all these years, what I was supposed to have really learned from those Jesuit priests at Gonzaga.
I didn't make too many connections with what was going on in my head long ago (in retrospect,not much), but it's a thoughtful book, insightful, and as the author emphasizes, a reader doesn't have to be a Christian to appreciate many of its truths. He's aware that even atheists have a valid point of view; he's explaining what worked for him, a Jesuit approach, not trying to convert anyone, or to demonstrate that anyone is "wrong". Martin points out that the title "is not a guide to understanding everything (thus the "almost"). Rather, it's a guide to discovering how God can be found in every dimension of your life. How God can be found in everything. And everyone, too."
To me "God" is an unknowable concept and when anyone tries to talk about it, what usually emerges is a hopelessly distorted figure with human qualities. It's unavoidable - how can we talk about a "being" that is all powerful, knowing, loving, etc. without attributing to it human qualities?
Martin doesn't avoid this dilemma, but there's enough specific context to suggest how a person's life should be lived, according to the principles first worked out by Ignatius of Loyola, a 16th century Basque soldier until he was wounded in battle and underwent a long and difficult transition to the teachings of Christ. Interestingly, he was an almost exact contemporary of Machiavelli whose ideas of a leader using control, power and fear were the opposite of Ignatius who also talks a lot about qualities of leadership.
"God" for Ignatius is an "incarnational" one, best embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. As I understand Martin's explanation, everyone's life is a full measure of joy and suffering. Life is made up of our interaction with other people, things, and places. What's important is to "love" life, that is to fully embrace it, good and bad alike, as Christ did, as Christians understand his life. That can only be done through a measure of "freedom" and "detachment". These are qualities that allow the individual to flourish as a human being and not get caught up in transitory false values. These always revolve around the ego and its attempts to rise above others. Much of capitalism, Martin believes, , in its abhorrence of being poor, encourages this tendency. No one succeeds completely in espousing the best of Christian values, but the attempt brings us closer to what can be called the "love of God."
The book tries to work out how to achieve this state , using the suggestions and insights of Ignatius. Some of it belabors the obvious, some of it is heavy on "self-help" optimism, but overall, there's plenty of substance that's worth reading, no matter where a reader is spiritually.
What stands out, though, was the dreaded “orals” examination in which a trembling student appeared in front of a panel of three Jesuits to answer questions about his knowledge of the philosophy and theology that he was supposed to have mastered. A failure to answer satisfactorily these questions, and he didn’t graduate. In practice, the Jesuits were lenient and almost all students stumbled successfully through the exam, but the thought of going into this room to be orally tested was traumatic for a lot of students.
All of these courses were, presumably, to "guide" me through life, but their success was problematic, at least for me. So when I saw THE JESUIT GUIDE TO (ALMOST) EVERYTHING, I thought, good, I'll find out what has been missing from my life all these years, what I was supposed to have really learned from those Jesuit priests at Gonzaga.
I didn't make too many connections with what was going on in my head long ago (in retrospect,not much), but it's a thoughtful book, insightful, and as the author emphasizes, a reader doesn't have to be a Christian to appreciate many of its truths. He's aware that even atheists have a valid point of view; he's explaining what worked for him, a Jesuit approach, not trying to convert anyone, or to demonstrate that anyone is "wrong". Martin points out that the title "is not a guide to understanding everything (thus the "almost"). Rather, it's a guide to discovering how God can be found in every dimension of your life. How God can be found in everything. And everyone, too."
To me "God" is an unknowable concept and when anyone tries to talk about it, what usually emerges is a hopelessly distorted figure with human qualities. It's unavoidable - how can we talk about a "being" that is all powerful, knowing, loving, etc. without attributing to it human qualities?
Martin doesn't avoid this dilemma, but there's enough specific context to suggest how a person's life should be lived, according to the principles first worked out by Ignatius of Loyola, a 16th century Basque soldier until he was wounded in battle and underwent a long and difficult transition to the teachings of Christ. Interestingly, he was an almost exact contemporary of Machiavelli whose ideas of a leader using control, power and fear were the opposite of Ignatius who also talks a lot about qualities of leadership.
"God" for Ignatius is an "incarnational" one, best embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. As I understand Martin's explanation, everyone's life is a full measure of joy and suffering. Life is made up of our interaction with other people, things, and places. What's important is to "love" life, that is to fully embrace it, good and bad alike, as Christ did, as Christians understand his life. That can only be done through a measure of "freedom" and "detachment". These are qualities that allow the individual to flourish as a human being and not get caught up in transitory false values. These always revolve around the ego and its attempts to rise above others. Much of capitalism, Martin believes, , in its abhorrence of being poor, encourages this tendency. No one succeeds completely in espousing the best of Christian values, but the attempt brings us closer to what can be called the "love of God."
The book tries to work out how to achieve this state , using the suggestions and insights of Ignatius. Some of it belabors the obvious, some of it is heavy on "self-help" optimism, but overall, there's plenty of substance that's worth reading, no matter where a reader is spiritually.
March 1, 2015
Not since J. K. Rowling have I ever wanted to write to an author so much. I want to thank James Martin for seemingly comforting me during one of my darkest times. I've always viewed myself as Agnostic ever since high school ended and I have felt too many times that God has distanced himself from me through the years. Why hasn't God been helping me and such questions arose.
For this FY15, I really wanted to understand more about God and about spirituality in general to help me with my current issues and I'm so happy I finally got to read this book. The Jesuit's motto of Finding God In Everything definitely helped me in my pursuit of God. The book is full of insights that is useful even for non-believers. You'd understand why the Jesuits are sometimes called radicals even within Catholic circles so it actually makes you understand why Pope Francis sometimes has the most radical ideas and wants to change what's happening in the Church. I believe that this book taught me again how to pray, how to view life, how to love God and how to believe again in God. It also helps that James Martin has such a great sense of humor and his writing is topnotch. He cemented my belief that religion is all about a way of life but most importantly the end goal is God. It's something about more than we can imagine and something so great and beautiful. Most of all, through this, I believe I was able to converse with God through the Examen and I believed that it wasn't just some one way telephone call to God, I believe that He actually listened and replied to me.
I recommend this book to ANYONE. Anyone at all. :)
For this FY15, I really wanted to understand more about God and about spirituality in general to help me with my current issues and I'm so happy I finally got to read this book. The Jesuit's motto of Finding God In Everything definitely helped me in my pursuit of God. The book is full of insights that is useful even for non-believers. You'd understand why the Jesuits are sometimes called radicals even within Catholic circles so it actually makes you understand why Pope Francis sometimes has the most radical ideas and wants to change what's happening in the Church. I believe that this book taught me again how to pray, how to view life, how to love God and how to believe again in God. It also helps that James Martin has such a great sense of humor and his writing is topnotch. He cemented my belief that religion is all about a way of life but most importantly the end goal is God. It's something about more than we can imagine and something so great and beautiful. Most of all, through this, I believe I was able to converse with God through the Examen and I believed that it wasn't just some one way telephone call to God, I believe that He actually listened and replied to me.
I recommend this book to ANYONE. Anyone at all. :)
February 19, 2014
I loved this book. To be honest, I've carried a very negative view of the Catholic faith/tradition for much of my life, based on what I've seen in the news (child abuse scandal), and people that I know that identify Catholic. Then again, a lot of other people who identify as Christians, in whichever way they practice, don't do a great job of representing their beliefs/denomination.
That being said, learning about the Jesuits was extremely refreshing. I love how academic they are, contemplative, loving, inclusive, living out their faith through action. Their practices seem very, well, practical. In almost every area of life, they have an approach for all of it, all of it being congruent with their main tenets. The themes of detachment/freedom really spoke to me.
As far as the writing style of the author, I loved that at no point, was he "preachy", like most Christian living books tend to be. He makes it VERY clear from the beginning and throughout the book, that their practices are those that can be used and applied by anyone, from any religious background/belief system; from the non-believer to the devout believer. Obviously at points he mentions their importance and tie to God, but it's very subtle, and probably welcome to those still trying to figure out what they believe. This should come as no shock, as inclusion is a big thing for them, as I mentioned previously.
I would recommend this to anyone, believer or not. Their practices and approach to life are applicable to anyone and everyone, no matter where you are in life.
That being said, learning about the Jesuits was extremely refreshing. I love how academic they are, contemplative, loving, inclusive, living out their faith through action. Their practices seem very, well, practical. In almost every area of life, they have an approach for all of it, all of it being congruent with their main tenets. The themes of detachment/freedom really spoke to me.
As far as the writing style of the author, I loved that at no point, was he "preachy", like most Christian living books tend to be. He makes it VERY clear from the beginning and throughout the book, that their practices are those that can be used and applied by anyone, from any religious background/belief system; from the non-believer to the devout believer. Obviously at points he mentions their importance and tie to God, but it's very subtle, and probably welcome to those still trying to figure out what they believe. This should come as no shock, as inclusion is a big thing for them, as I mentioned previously.
I would recommend this to anyone, believer or not. Their practices and approach to life are applicable to anyone and everyone, no matter where you are in life.
February 14, 2013
Well-written and thorough as all get-out. Approachable. Includes a sense of humor (always nice). Lots of practical stuff, too, like how to make decisions the way St. Ignatius did. Some history, some self-help, some religion, some philosophy, and some memoir-ish touches. The memoirish part is repetitive if you read My Life With the Saints, a book I enjoyed more only because it kept changing topics as Martin went from saint to saint and connected their experiences with his own. Still, I cannot fault this book or demote it a star just because it didn't entertain me as much.
As the sub-heading says, it is a "spirituality for real life," and Martin pulls no punches, taking on chastity and other hot button topics full on. The sexual scandals he addresses more obliquely, but it's clear he is as mortified as many of us are and his point is well taken -- these monsters (my words, not his) are a distinct minority, though their toll for the Church is a costly one that must be worked through (see abdication of Benedict comma Pope).
As the sub-heading says, it is a "spirituality for real life," and Martin pulls no punches, taking on chastity and other hot button topics full on. The sexual scandals he addresses more obliquely, but it's clear he is as mortified as many of us are and his point is well taken -- these monsters (my words, not his) are a distinct minority, though their toll for the Church is a costly one that must be worked through (see abdication of Benedict comma Pope).
February 16, 2014
Fr. Jim says Ignatian spirituality is simply about finding God in all things. And prayer is a long, loving look at the era.
His book takes the reader through the life of Saint Ignatius and his own experiences to show that common events and common longings are where God may be found. Savoring things, naming your desires--these allow moments of contemplation.
Fr. Jim quotes Anthony de Mello: 'You sanctify whatever you are grateful for.' and Father Keenan: 'Sin is often a failure to bother.'
His book takes the reader through the life of Saint Ignatius and his own experiences to show that common events and common longings are where God may be found. Savoring things, naming your desires--these allow moments of contemplation.
Fr. Jim quotes Anthony de Mello: 'You sanctify whatever you are grateful for.' and Father Keenan: 'Sin is often a failure to bother.'
November 21, 2024
This book is the epitome of the whole “Spiritual but not religious” mantra that is heard from deconstructionists, evangellyfish, and modernists.
I had hoped that this would be a Jesuit guide to everything, but it ended up being a personal guide to James Martin’s opinions. Ignatius of Loyola would be terrified to know the state of the Jesuits today which has become nothing more than a booster club for liberal Christianity and the poster child of a faith with no spine.
The whole book chronicles much of Martin’s experiences and journey within the Jesuit community and following the Spiritual exercises to become more in tune with your spirituality. I could use this book as my bed pillow with the amount of fluff it has in it.
I read this book so that you do not have to.
I had hoped that this would be a Jesuit guide to everything, but it ended up being a personal guide to James Martin’s opinions. Ignatius of Loyola would be terrified to know the state of the Jesuits today which has become nothing more than a booster club for liberal Christianity and the poster child of a faith with no spine.
The whole book chronicles much of Martin’s experiences and journey within the Jesuit community and following the Spiritual exercises to become more in tune with your spirituality. I could use this book as my bed pillow with the amount of fluff it has in it.
I read this book so that you do not have to.
November 24, 2020
My spiritual director recommended this book first, off the top of her head, when I asked for books on Ignatian spirituality that weren't academic, de-Catholicized, or fluffy. The Jesuit Guide satisfied me and made me hunger for more.
Martin writes to a broad audience, consciously including non-Catholics, people of other religions, and those of no religion at all. He doesn't assume much, but doesn't over-explain, either. While he assumes some basic knowledge about Scripture, Jesus' life, and so forth, I imagine readers will have at least some familiarity with Christianity before picking up a book by a member of the Society of Jesus with a Latin slogan on the cover.
Having studied church history in Protestant schools, most of what I knew about Ignatius was broad biographical strokes, and a bit more about the tumultuous history of the Society of Jesus. Martin brought both to life, highlighting Ignatius's humanity and historical Jesuits whose lives inspire him. But, for those to whom history is not quite so exciting, Martin also includes many stories from his own experience as a Jesuit, and narrates how contemporary Jesuits have changed his life.
Ignatian spirituality is very broad, and very deep. It's one of many ways of engaging the divine, and is not entirely unique within the Christian tradition. Martin emphasizes Ignatian ideas of freedom and detachment, imaginative prayer, discernment, the Spiritual exercises, the religious trio of poverty/chastity/obedience, and more. In my spiritual direction sessions, we've discussed and practiced Ignatian ideas like consolation/desolation, the Examen, imaginative prayer, and so forth. The Jesuit Guide gave me some solid background for these spiritual practices and ways of inhabiting the spiritual life.
At the end of the book, Martin recommends The Sparrow, a science fiction novel I read over the summer, which is about Jesuits in space. I'd like to re-read it sometime with a better understanding of Ignatian spirituality to see how Russell applies it in her fiction. She did a lot of research and interviewing while writing it, and I'd heard the portrayal of Jesuit life is accurate, so it was nice to hear it from the horse's mouth, as it were. Of course, to my knowledge, Jesuits are not in space yet, but you know they'd be the first order up there! The Mission and On the Waterfront are films about Jesuits that Martin recommends. It's been years since I've seen either one (I didn't even remember a priest in On the Waterfront because adolescent me was swept away by Marlon Brando) and I'd like to check them out again, with new eyes.
Martin quotes Gerard Manley Hopkins often. When I studied him in college, I knew he was a Jesuit, but I thought of it like a vanilla religious order (none of them are!). Martin, however, places Hopkins's poetry within appropriate sections of his writing on Ignatian spirituality, which made it come to life in a totally different way for me. Though Martin doesn't quote it, "I Wake and Feel" came to new life for me once I considered it as a portrayal of desolation: "God's most deep decree / Bitter would have me taste: my taste was me." Reading Hopkins's poetry through the lens of Ignatian spirituality is like finding the key to the cipher. Martin doesn't quote this one either, but "Let Me Be to Thee" pictures consolation: "I have found the dominant of my range and state — / Love, O my God, to call thee Love and Love." I am eager to revisit Hopkins again with new eyes!
My one major complaint is that the chapter lengths are incredibly varied. Some are around 20 pages, others around 50. Each one stands up well, with none of them being too wordy or too brief, but I personally value consistent chapter length in books like these, so I can sit down for a read and know what I'm in for. However, there are plenty of section breaks, which I made use of as stopping points.
I highly recommend this book to anyone curious about Ignatian spirituality, or those who are looking for a set of spiritual practices to try (though I'd absolutely recommend seeing a spiritual director, too). Many Ignatian ideas, such as the Examen and imaginative prayer, have filtered into more common practice, so this resource is a great starting point for those who want to get more out of their experiences.
Martin writes to a broad audience, consciously including non-Catholics, people of other religions, and those of no religion at all. He doesn't assume much, but doesn't over-explain, either. While he assumes some basic knowledge about Scripture, Jesus' life, and so forth, I imagine readers will have at least some familiarity with Christianity before picking up a book by a member of the Society of Jesus with a Latin slogan on the cover.
Having studied church history in Protestant schools, most of what I knew about Ignatius was broad biographical strokes, and a bit more about the tumultuous history of the Society of Jesus. Martin brought both to life, highlighting Ignatius's humanity and historical Jesuits whose lives inspire him. But, for those to whom history is not quite so exciting, Martin also includes many stories from his own experience as a Jesuit, and narrates how contemporary Jesuits have changed his life.
Ignatian spirituality is very broad, and very deep. It's one of many ways of engaging the divine, and is not entirely unique within the Christian tradition. Martin emphasizes Ignatian ideas of freedom and detachment, imaginative prayer, discernment, the Spiritual exercises, the religious trio of poverty/chastity/obedience, and more. In my spiritual direction sessions, we've discussed and practiced Ignatian ideas like consolation/desolation, the Examen, imaginative prayer, and so forth. The Jesuit Guide gave me some solid background for these spiritual practices and ways of inhabiting the spiritual life.
At the end of the book, Martin recommends The Sparrow, a science fiction novel I read over the summer, which is about Jesuits in space. I'd like to re-read it sometime with a better understanding of Ignatian spirituality to see how Russell applies it in her fiction. She did a lot of research and interviewing while writing it, and I'd heard the portrayal of Jesuit life is accurate, so it was nice to hear it from the horse's mouth, as it were. Of course, to my knowledge, Jesuits are not in space yet, but you know they'd be the first order up there! The Mission and On the Waterfront are films about Jesuits that Martin recommends. It's been years since I've seen either one (I didn't even remember a priest in On the Waterfront because adolescent me was swept away by Marlon Brando) and I'd like to check them out again, with new eyes.
Martin quotes Gerard Manley Hopkins often. When I studied him in college, I knew he was a Jesuit, but I thought of it like a vanilla religious order (none of them are!). Martin, however, places Hopkins's poetry within appropriate sections of his writing on Ignatian spirituality, which made it come to life in a totally different way for me. Though Martin doesn't quote it, "I Wake and Feel" came to new life for me once I considered it as a portrayal of desolation: "God's most deep decree / Bitter would have me taste: my taste was me." Reading Hopkins's poetry through the lens of Ignatian spirituality is like finding the key to the cipher. Martin doesn't quote this one either, but "Let Me Be to Thee" pictures consolation: "I have found the dominant of my range and state — / Love, O my God, to call thee Love and Love." I am eager to revisit Hopkins again with new eyes!
My one major complaint is that the chapter lengths are incredibly varied. Some are around 20 pages, others around 50. Each one stands up well, with none of them being too wordy or too brief, but I personally value consistent chapter length in books like these, so I can sit down for a read and know what I'm in for. However, there are plenty of section breaks, which I made use of as stopping points.
I highly recommend this book to anyone curious about Ignatian spirituality, or those who are looking for a set of spiritual practices to try (though I'd absolutely recommend seeing a spiritual director, too). Many Ignatian ideas, such as the Examen and imaginative prayer, have filtered into more common practice, so this resource is a great starting point for those who want to get more out of their experiences.
February 26, 2018
Kind and inclusive voice with a message of "owner's use" manual type instructions for a Jesuit brand road to spirituality growth.
It's pleasant to read. And has some immense practical applications for sure.
But it is also complicated/ complex to a degree that rationalizes and over rationalizes. It makes personal onus as the pivot to optimal action or even a thrust for a possible action direction- far more than seems (for me anyway) allowable toward the strictures of the Big Ten (10 commandments and NOT College football). Wrong CAN be sin, and absolutely wrong. Not partially "right" because it just seems to fit.
For me, Christianity should always be (and was for St. Ignatius) Jesus centered. And this approaches a moral relativity that is not particularly Catholic. Certainly not in any dogma sense or even in a cultural context sense. And the "God" centered quality of it for anyone's little more than at its widest aspiration "intent" use, eludes me. Nearly completely. It's more "good" will than "God will". I find his mindset sheltered and academic too. I just do. His mental applications complex and difficult / nearly the antithesis of most humans of hard working or mid-life responsibilities hours per day conceptualization.
So for most Christians, and essentially for Catholics in particular- I would suggest the much simpler path of a St. Therese of L. or a St. Francis. Just my opinion and many others disagree. If you think the 10 Commandments may be redefined, possibly interpreted to cultural mores re "murder" or "adultery" and to you seem more like the "10 suggestions" of avoidance than James Martin may be your kind of guy.
Being outlier here on his compatibility faction to the universal themes? Not really- but I don't find his personal interpretations FOR OTHERS all that instructive. Complex and introspective (they work for him), but not all that readily served to simple steps for practical applications. Or for use in surmounting base character faults for baby steps to change either.
But I adore his personal, autobiographical material re the Jesuits' "forms" of rules and documents and also his current voice for his own experiences. I think those are at least 4 star.
A Jesuit is what you become when you are erudite smart, usually conflicted, and like to do your own thing while often creating hard methods and harsh strictures for others who are underlings in your world's "job". And that job could be anything, and nearly any where. As long as you believe it is the "right" one.
It's pleasant to read. And has some immense practical applications for sure.
But it is also complicated/ complex to a degree that rationalizes and over rationalizes. It makes personal onus as the pivot to optimal action or even a thrust for a possible action direction- far more than seems (for me anyway) allowable toward the strictures of the Big Ten (10 commandments and NOT College football). Wrong CAN be sin, and absolutely wrong. Not partially "right" because it just seems to fit.
For me, Christianity should always be (and was for St. Ignatius) Jesus centered. And this approaches a moral relativity that is not particularly Catholic. Certainly not in any dogma sense or even in a cultural context sense. And the "God" centered quality of it for anyone's little more than at its widest aspiration "intent" use, eludes me. Nearly completely. It's more "good" will than "God will". I find his mindset sheltered and academic too. I just do. His mental applications complex and difficult / nearly the antithesis of most humans of hard working or mid-life responsibilities hours per day conceptualization.
So for most Christians, and essentially for Catholics in particular- I would suggest the much simpler path of a St. Therese of L. or a St. Francis. Just my opinion and many others disagree. If you think the 10 Commandments may be redefined, possibly interpreted to cultural mores re "murder" or "adultery" and to you seem more like the "10 suggestions" of avoidance than James Martin may be your kind of guy.
Being outlier here on his compatibility faction to the universal themes? Not really- but I don't find his personal interpretations FOR OTHERS all that instructive. Complex and introspective (they work for him), but not all that readily served to simple steps for practical applications. Or for use in surmounting base character faults for baby steps to change either.
But I adore his personal, autobiographical material re the Jesuits' "forms" of rules and documents and also his current voice for his own experiences. I think those are at least 4 star.
A Jesuit is what you become when you are erudite smart, usually conflicted, and like to do your own thing while often creating hard methods and harsh strictures for others who are underlings in your world's "job". And that job could be anything, and nearly any where. As long as you believe it is the "right" one.
June 20, 2013
Perhaps my biggest takeaway from this book is the idea that as we grow older, we must develop a "new" relationship with God. That is to say, far too many of us are introduced to God or religion by our parents while we are still to young to truly comprehend the magnitude of the concepts we are being taught. Many Christians never grow out of this phase and move forward with blind faith. Equally troubling is that once we reach adulthood, many of us turn away from the "dumbed-down" religious principles we had been taught as kids.
Fr. Jim Martin emphasizes that as we become adults, we must rediscover God, and oftentimes such an exercise can run counter to several of the religious lessons from our childhood. Fr. Martin presents a portrait of God that is far from dumbed-down. Rather, he goes into great detail as to how we can begin to rediscover our faith in a mature manner that doesn't make readers groan like a lot of other spiritual books I have read in the past. I would certainly recommend it to those who may be struggling with their faith and/or having spiritual doubts. I don't know how much of a benefit this book would be to adamant non-believers, except that it may help convince you that not all of us Christians are all that bad ;)
Fr. Jim Martin emphasizes that as we become adults, we must rediscover God, and oftentimes such an exercise can run counter to several of the religious lessons from our childhood. Fr. Martin presents a portrait of God that is far from dumbed-down. Rather, he goes into great detail as to how we can begin to rediscover our faith in a mature manner that doesn't make readers groan like a lot of other spiritual books I have read in the past. I would certainly recommend it to those who may be struggling with their faith and/or having spiritual doubts. I don't know how much of a benefit this book would be to adamant non-believers, except that it may help convince you that not all of us Christians are all that bad ;)
October 26, 2011
The retired bishop of my diocese recommended this book during the closing Mass of my Cursillo retreat weekend. It's packed with practical, easy-to-understand advice and anecdotes for living the Ignatian spiritual path, which Jesuit priests and brothers live. The author says you don't have to be a Jesuit, a Catholic, or even a Christian to benefit from this way of living. I found the chapters on meditation and poverty (i.e. living a simple life) most thought-provoking and helpful.
May 2, 2021
I have read a lot of books about living the Christian life over the years, but my reading has usually been limited to writers from Protestant traditions. It is refreshing to read something by a Catholic (Jesuit) writer, and reassuring to realise that Catholic and Protestant are not that different. This book is what it proclaims itself to be: "a spirituality for real life." It does not presuppose any great theological knowledge, and depicts the practice of Christianity as something normal and reasonable, even in our "post-christian" world. I found the book refreshing and helpful in rethinking my approach to spiritual life, which is important to me, and I believe important to all human beings. I would recommend it to both believers and interested enquirers as a good overview of what it means to be Christian in todays world.
January 19, 2011
I loved this book.
Admittedly, I am probably predisposed to like this book because 1) I am Catholic; 2) I work for the Catholic Church and love spiritual writing; 3) I am fascinated with the charisms of the mendicant orders; 4) I am familiar with Fr. Jim's writings from his work in America magazine and have a favorable view of it. So, I started biased.
The book offers a very approachable look at St. Ignatius Loyola's spirituality. And as the title suggests, it delivers on providing a spirituality for everyday life. Finding God in all things and God meeting you where you are are comforts and guidepoints no matter your religious affiliation, or lack thereof.
Fr. Jim offers suggestions for prayer, problem solving, and finding the freedom to become the person you were meant to be. This is all grounded in 450 years of Jesuit tradition. Fr. Jim has a very colloquial writing style. And though he is a priest and his love of the Society of Jesus is very clear, he doesn't come across as preachy.
I would recommend this for anyone who would like some new strategies for growing in their relationship with God or would like a gentle and optimistic companion for advice on the spiritual journey home to God.
Admittedly, I am probably predisposed to like this book because 1) I am Catholic; 2) I work for the Catholic Church and love spiritual writing; 3) I am fascinated with the charisms of the mendicant orders; 4) I am familiar with Fr. Jim's writings from his work in America magazine and have a favorable view of it. So, I started biased.
The book offers a very approachable look at St. Ignatius Loyola's spirituality. And as the title suggests, it delivers on providing a spirituality for everyday life. Finding God in all things and God meeting you where you are are comforts and guidepoints no matter your religious affiliation, or lack thereof.
Fr. Jim offers suggestions for prayer, problem solving, and finding the freedom to become the person you were meant to be. This is all grounded in 450 years of Jesuit tradition. Fr. Jim has a very colloquial writing style. And though he is a priest and his love of the Society of Jesus is very clear, he doesn't come across as preachy.
I would recommend this for anyone who would like some new strategies for growing in their relationship with God or would like a gentle and optimistic companion for advice on the spiritual journey home to God.
February 14, 2013
Maybe I'm a bit biased, I have this impression that Jesuits are really sincere, practical and accessible with their Faith, with the Catholic Faith. Sometimes religion/faith/Christianity tends to be too "up-there", too symbolic, too superficial, or too showy. It's something that I admire and really wanted to learn about, which is why I got this book in the first place.
There might be some topics that can be too expounded upon, but then maybe the Author really wanted the reader to understand how an instruction can be done, or applied in a real-life situation. It wasn't that boring since it's written for the Non-Catholic, the non-practicing, the Spiritual but not Religious people: it was written with wit and practicality. Topics that I really appreciated include how to really pray (using the Examen), strategies in Making Decisions, and the chapter on being who you are (and who God wants you to be).
Books like these, you can't really read in one sitting. It's more of an instructional book, something to refer to when you're a bit lost in life and needing guidance. Which is why I'm keeping my copy, something to refer to as I grow in God's love.
There might be some topics that can be too expounded upon, but then maybe the Author really wanted the reader to understand how an instruction can be done, or applied in a real-life situation. It wasn't that boring since it's written for the Non-Catholic, the non-practicing, the Spiritual but not Religious people: it was written with wit and practicality. Topics that I really appreciated include how to really pray (using the Examen), strategies in Making Decisions, and the chapter on being who you are (and who God wants you to be).
Books like these, you can't really read in one sitting. It's more of an instructional book, something to refer to when you're a bit lost in life and needing guidance. Which is why I'm keeping my copy, something to refer to as I grow in God's love.
May 16, 2011
I truly enjoyed immersing myself in this book. James Martin, SJ does a wonderful job of conveying the message of spirituality in a way that is enriching for christians, jews, buddhists, muslims. It will help you in your journey towards a closer relationship with God. It also provides a spiritual roadmap to help you with more thoughtful decision-making, better relationships and an understanding of the spiritual exercises as set forth over 450 years ago by the founder of the Society of Jesus (aka Jesuits),St. Ignatius of Loyola. You may not believe me but this book is worth buying as a gift for a loved one and for yourself to go back to whenever your spirit needs a lift or you are in need of some inspired guidance!
March 22, 2017
Father Martin's voice is friendly and compassionate as he guides the reader through different aspects of Jesuit spirituality and its application for seekers, regardless of their backgrounds. He talks a lot about Jesuit history too, which I thought was fascinating.
I'm glad I bought this one. There's a lot of wisdom within, and I'm sure I'll want to refer back to it.
I'm glad I bought this one. There's a lot of wisdom within, and I'm sure I'll want to refer back to it.
January 13, 2015
So so good. I can't wait to pore over my notes and highlights!
Incidentally, thanks to this book I feel like I understand and respect Pope Francis even more than I did before.
Incidentally, thanks to this book I feel like I understand and respect Pope Francis even more than I did before.
March 24, 2023
Some good concepts, but needs an editor. There were so many repetitive sentences and ideas. The general structure was 1. Introduce a concept 2. Give 2-3 anecdotes about it. Repeat. Eventually, the anecdotes seemed less and less related and again, repetitive! The tone was conversational, but would have made a better lecture series than book. I did appreciate some of the history of Ignatius and the introduction to Ignatian discernment, but I think most of the book's message could have been communciated in about 100 pages.
October 10, 2019
This book managed to be both an engaging and light read while stimulating me to think deeply and hopefully will have a lasting impact on my heart and actions. The author makes you feel like you are sitting with a friend, he is that personal and personable. I learned a surprising amount of history without painful tedium, because he uses stories from the lives of Ignatius and others who followed him. He uses illustrations from his own life and experience as well as from other Jesuits. He understands human weakness and, while he presents the goal of Ignatian spirituality (spoiler alert, it's God), he also shows us how it looks lived out in real life with real, broken, flawed people. It's both historical and modern, both philosophical and practical. Never pious or preachy, but leaves you wanting to experience God in all his holiness and love.
June 28, 2017
Enjoyable, casual introduction to the basics of Ignatian spirituality. I had a vague concept of the examen and lectio divina, but Fr. Martin describes them in clear, practical terms. Recommended if you're looking for new directions for your prayer life. For what it's worth, I have since learned that Fr. Martin's politics might be possibly somewhat questionable from an orthodox Catholic perspective, but this does not come through in this book. He writes with a genuine love for God, for St. Ignatius, and for Ignatian spirituality.
August 8, 2018
This was a surprisingly engaging book about how to live your faith in daily life. I liked the author's conversational style and found his practical suggestions to be helpful.
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