Spirituality for a time of epochal change
Chris Stabb SJ, Professor of the Practice in Ignatian Spirituality in Santa Clara University USA, gave the Joe Veale SJ memorial lecture this year, 10 June 2025. The event was co-hosted by the Loyola Institute, TCD and by the Spirituality Institute for Research and Education (SpIRE), Dublin.
Fr Joseph Veale, SJ (1921-2002) spent thirty years of his Jesuit ministry from 1972-2002, engaged in study, research, lecturing, and spiritual direction. He became an authority on the spiritual exercises of St Ignatius, which he directed in Ireland, Britain, and the United States. He lectured on spirituality at the Milltown Institute, Dublin, gave retreats and conferences in many countries, and was widely regarded as an exceptional spiritual director. He spent long periods every year at Boston College in the United States.
He was noted for his integrity and commitment to seeking the truth in all its paradox and complexity and encouraged those whom he encountered to always keep an ‘open mind’ in the pursuit of truth.
In the light of the insight of Fr Veale’s writings Dr Staab’s lecture, entitled ‘Literature, Ignatian Spirituality and Narrative Experiences’ was an exploration of new images and languages to help people discover a spirituality for a time of epochal change.
Introducing the memorial lecture Bobby McDonagh, former Irish Ambassador to the UK, to Italy, and to Malaysia, spoke about the Joe Veale he knew. Professor Staabs talk was followed by a lively Q&A session with those gathered.
Photo: Back: Bobby McDonagh : Tom Layden, SJ, Chair of the Loyola Institute Board of Trustees; Front: Dr Michael Kirwan, SJ, Director of the Loyola Institute, Dr Bernadette Flanagan, PBVM, Chair of the SpIRE Board of Trustees, and Dr Michael O’Sullivan, SJ, Director of SpIRE.
