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molly_cahill's review against another edition
4.5
Lovely to read a book by a friend! :)
I picked this one up to accompany me through the last few weeks of Lent, and it helped me approach some of the foundations of Ignatian spirituality in a fresh way. Personal, accessible and practical. I’m recommitting to my Examen and also to a generally more prayerful and loving attitude.
I picked this one up to accompany me through the last few weeks of Lent, and it helped me approach some of the foundations of Ignatian spirituality in a fresh way. Personal, accessible and practical. I’m recommitting to my Examen and also to a generally more prayerful and loving attitude.
heidihaverkamp's review against another edition
4.0
After being immersed in Benedictine spirituality for a long time, I wanted to break out and read something from another religious order's theology. James Martin, S.J., is funny, self-revealing, and a delight to read. A Benedictine book hasn't make me *laugh out loud* like Martin did since Kathleen Norris, like twenty years ago. I especially appreciate the structured, yet intuitive, approach to discernment and decision-making that Jesuits have, and will be revisiting it. I've never been able to get into the examen or felt drawn to do a 30-day retreat or the Exercises, but I still really value the tradition. Great stuff here on prayer, suffering, risk, and just the sacredness of ordinary life.
pchamblee's review against another edition
Got caught up with some other stuff, will probably revisit later
violinknitter's review against another edition
4.0
I found the first half of the book more helpful than the second half, and I'll definitely re-read the parts on prayer & the practice of the examen.
The author read the audiobook, and I'm not convinced that was a great choice. He was adequate, but a bit dry. (I think I'm super picky about my narrators for non-fiction works.)
The author read the audiobook, and I'm not convinced that was a great choice. He was adequate, but a bit dry. (I think I'm super picky about my narrators for non-fiction works.)
cpardonme's review against another edition
5.0
James Martin has an extremely accessible style of writing which makes what could easily be dry subject matter engaging and entertaining to read. I felt like I was receiving guidance by a kindly peer well versed in the history of the Society of Jesus while reading this book. Though the book is certainly about God, I think ANYONE of any religious or spiritual ( or none whatsoever) could apply the advice and guidance given in this book- specifically "the examen", the idea of living simply, and the importance of a vocation in life which transcends our traditional understanding of just being paid work . I look forward to reading more of his writing, which is extensive.
makenziewho's review against another edition
5.0
A great read for anyone- you certainly don't have to be Catholic, or even Christian, or even religious to enjoy this book. Fr. Martin presents Ignatian Spirituality in a way that is accessible to everyone and includes practical steps to incorporate St. Ignatius' practices into your everyday life. I particularly enjoyed his instructions for the Examen, a daily review prayer that has really helped me quiet my mind before bed and appreciate God's presence in my day. This book also has great insights on other aspects of spiritual life, such as living simply and loving others. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for more focus in their spiritual life, or anyone looking to experience God in new ways.
katy82's review against another edition
4.0
Great book. I wish I had read this before I read "Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius" because it would have relieved me of having to go back and re-read all of the dry passages. Still I consider Ignatius one of spiritual mentors because his practices and his guidance are continue to be essential tools for following a spiritual life in a hectic - unspirtual world. I'm glad Martin has put all of that into words that are easy to understand and connect with.