Letting God Come Close: An Approach to the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises [Paperback]

William A. Barry SJ (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1, 2001

An approach to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius

 

As more and more people begin to reclaim their spiritual heritage, longoverlooked traditions resurface, offering seekers new ways to rekindle their spiritual selves. The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola is such a tradition, and its recovery in the church has sparked the interest of many believers—religious and laypeople alike.
In light of this resurgence, Fr. William A. Barry, a director of the Spiritual Exercises for more than thirty years, offers Letting God Come Close, a guide that shows spiritual directors how to effectively and creatively help individuals meet the living God through the Exercises. Using clear, down-to-earth examples from his own experience, Fr. Barry hopes to instill in the director the trust, confidence, and skills needed to help retreatants approach God.

 

“Spiritual directors will find a gold mine here of help in understanding and giving the Exercises.”
—George Aschenbrenner, S.J., director, Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth

 

“For over thirty years Barry has listened attentively for the ways God deals directly with God’s people through the Spiritual Exercises. God’s voice comes through and Barry helps directors pay attention.”
—George R. Murphy, S.J., adjunct lecturer in spirituality at the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Barry's book is well worth reading and reflecting on for new and experienced directors as well as for students." -- George R. Murphy, S.J., adjunct lecturer in spirituality at the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley

"Spiritual directors will find a gold mine here of help in understanding and giving the Exercises." -- George Aschenbrenner, S.J., director, Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth

From the Publisher

In this dynamic guide, Father Barry explains different methods directors can encourage their retreatants to use during the Exercises, such as imaginative prayer and "touchstone experiences" that help individuals access higher levels of spiritual contemplation. Using well-chosen examples from the Bible, religious literature, and from psychological and religious professionals, Barry reveals the modern-day relevance of these centuries-old exercises. His insights will pave the way for even further expansion of this increasingly popular and enlightening practice.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Loyola Press; Fifth Edition edition (September 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0829416846
• ISBN-13: 978-0829416848
• Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #200,297 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

William A. Barry, SJ, is a veteran spiritual director who is currently serving as tertian director for the New England Province of the Society of Jesus. He has taught at the University of Michigan, the Weston Jesuit School of Theology, and Boston College. His many works include Letting God Come Close, A Friendship Like No Other, Here's My Heart, Here's My Hand, Seek My Face, and God's Passionate Desire (Loyola Press), and God and You.