Inner Compass: An Invitation to Ignatian Spirituality

Ignatian Spirituality is appealing to many people because it enables a person to see God in the ordinariness of life, believes that God communicates with us in our hearts through prayer, particularly reflections of scripture, and by looking at our lives and reflecting on scripture, we can discern God's will in our lives. There are many wonderful Jesuit authors who make articulate the spirituality of the Jesuits and the order's founder, St. Ignatius of Loyola, namely William Barry, David Lonsdale, and Anthony DeMello. Now a non-Jesuit can be added to this list, Margaret Silf, author of Inner Compass. Though the book is supposed to be an invitation to Ignatian Spirituality, and it does review the basic principles of Ignatian spirituality, it is told through the voice of a lay woman, who also happens to be a Catholic convert. I believe that this is the book's chief strength because Ms. Silf is able to share her experiences so well which makes the invitation something that is open to all.The book is divided into fifteen easy to read chapters which are subdivided for individual reflection if it is desired. Each chapter also contains helpful prayer exercises that can be used at the time of reading or as prayer helps at a later date.I have noticed that she also the author of two other books, which if they are the quality of this book, will be a pleasure to read.

Book

This beautifully written book is a series of personal reflections and imaginative meditations that focus on the "First Week" (i.e., section) of St. Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises, during which retreatants traditionally focus on the workings of sin and grace in their lives. As such it serves as a good, practical introduction to many basic concepts of Ignatian spirituality such as consolation and desolation, detachment, and our deepest desire.The strengths of the book are its lovely style, the honesty of the author's personal examples, and the creativity and depth of "Suggestions for Prayer and Discussion" that are posed at the end of each chapter. The latter clearly come from a wealth of retreat experience.In the introduction, Silf modestly writes that her book "is not a way of actually making the Exercises." While that is technically true, many readers may feel they have begun to do so.

This book is perfect for anyone who has been struck by life's mysteries, both beautiful and evil - and has wondered how God did it all together. It is full of personal experience and the author's images - sometimes too many to glean meaning of one. Suggestions for reflective prayer are scripture based, helpful to ground concepts in God himself. But if the reader is not of a reflective bent, the book is valuable as a deep exposure to the concepts of Ignatian spirituality.

If you are looking to deepen your spiritual life and do some "Soul Care" for yourself, this is good place to begin.Spiritual Exercises are sprinkled throughout this book by Margaret Silf. Exercises such as: Finding God in all things, Discovering who I really am, Noticing God's action in my life, and Making choices in line with my truest self.The title 'Inner Compass' rings true as the author guides you through introspective exercises and spiritual disciplines which can't help but leave you closer to the Father's heart.

In the introduction, Margaret Silf says, "All that a book can do is point out some of the landmarks along the way and invite readers to discover their own unique path into the fullness of life." This is exactly what this book does for me. Silf's masterful use of metaphor relating to the spiritual journey encourages me to journey deeper in my understanding and relationship with God. I got so much out of the Inner Compass when I read the Kindle version during Spiritual Direction training that I bought the hard copy, and have read and reread it.

Our Spiritual Practices group has just had its first meeting, so I cannot yet recommend the book unreservedly. Ignatian spirituality sounded daunting to us laypersons, but even the front matter is replete with material that is inspiring, so we are really looking forward to delving into the reading, exercises, and discussion.

I like it and will probably love it in the end. It is not a book I can hurry through so it takes much effort to think about, but appreciate her sharing her wisdom. I have read other books by this author and found them helpful and will continue with this one to see where God leads me through it.

If you are looking for introduction to Ignatian spirituality this is confusing.....it is Silf's own version and interpretation inevitably shot through with her own style and a tendency to offer too many options and suggestions at once. If you are already familiar with Ignatian spirituality this could be a refreshing and helpful read.

A very helpful guide and work book.

Wonderfully helpful book when life is upside down

Coming from a Protestant background I found this book a powerful introduction to Ignatian Spirituality that helped change my life. Cannot recommend more highly.

mint condition book - good value!