St Ignatius and spiritual conversation

In the first part of an interview with Pat Coyle of Irish Jesuit Communications, Leon O’Giolláin detailed the significant characteristics of such conversation including sensitive listening, brave speaking (parrhesia), and a humble disposition.

In this second and final part of his interview, he defines spiritual conversation by setting it in the context of the spirituality of St Ignatius. He references in particular the Spiritual Exercises, the saint’s guidebook for those seeking an experiential relationship with God.

He also discusses the central role of spiritual conversation in the global synodal process initiated by Pope Francis and he explains how spiritual conversation and synodality is at the core of his papacy.