the phrase “in the Jesuit tradition” became a bit of coded black humor indicating something that is most definitely not in the Catholic tradition. Hence the title of this entry. Informed Catholics won’t have to read beyond the title to understand the point.
The good news is that there are still quite a few extraordinarily holy and brilliant Jesuits around, just the kind of men the Order was originally founded to produce. The bad news is that all of them agree with this assessment of their Order, and they are unable to do anything whatsoever about it. I’ve written recently of the Apostolic Visitation of American seminaries, of American women religious, and of the Legion of Christ. Though there is no guarantee of success, such visitations are always a sign of hope. My hope is that the Society of Jesus will be next.
Link (here) to the full editorial at Catholic Culture.
8 comments:
The Jesuits have probably pre-empted a visitation by passing a decree at the last congregation affirming loyalty to the Holy Father. This brought satisfaction to loyal Jesuits but was received with cynicism by the rest. It is turning out to be little more than window dressing. Nevertheless, a visitation would be a valuable exercise but the prospect is unlikely.
The term 'in the Jesuit tradition' is a cliche for doing and thinking what you please.
"The good news is that there are still quite a few extraordinarily holy and brilliant Jesuits around, just the kind of men the Order was originally founded to produce"
There is no doubt about this. And they are typically, though not always,in their 70's or 80's. I know. One such Holy Jesuit has the courage to listen to my confessions.
"The bad news is that all of them agree with this assessment of their Order, and they are unable to do anything whatsoever about it".
This, I do not understand. I WANT TO KNOW: how did, perhaps, the most Holy Order of Priests in the history of the world, come to be the most Unholy Order of Priests in the world. I want someone to explain it to me. As a practicing Catholic who lost my way for many decades, and am now home, HOW did this happen? It is heartbreaking.
I spend hours at America Magazine defending the most basic of Catholic Doctrine. My defense of Church Doctrine is deemed uncharitable, rude. Adherence to doctrine can get your comments deleted. It is BREATHTAKING. I keep saying to myself: but, aren't they Catholic ? I am quite serious when I say that I find it scary.
This passage form Isaiah 5 seems apt:
"Woe to you that call evil good, and good evil: that put darkness for light, and light for darkness: that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter".
Frankly, I have resorted to daily prayer, at Mass, for the Jesuit Order.
Maria,
Can I make a suggestion? Find A Jesuit priest you like and support, then stick to him. In the mean time read Jesuit classics, some of which you can read on my side bar. When you are debating on Jesuit territory. Use the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius as debating points (For example: Rules of Right Thinking with the Church and Discernment of Spirits). Use their lingo and quote other Jesuits, especially St.Ignatius and other Saints of the Order in the debate. Be as clear and charitable as possible, many people will read your comments over the course of future years, you will make a lasting impact.
Don't give up!
JMJ
Joe
Dea Joe; I have read many and the resouces are wonderful I especially enjoy Offer it Up. This return to Apostleship of Prayer is a step in the right direction.
Maria,
I have felt just the way you have and I understand the frustration. You going through a processes of conversion and testing. Discouragement is from the Dark Spirit, be encouraged and work through and past the frustration.
In the Spiritual Exercises there is a moment entitled OF THE FIRST MIRACLE (The Wedding Feast at Cana), I recommended that you read and meditate upon it.
It easy to understand especially for us laity, also note that Jesus is "invited" into that household and works His miracles that are unknown to the hosts of Jesus.
JMJ
Joe
PS Keep commenting.
Thank you so much, Joe. Your words bring much needed comfort.
God Bless You,
Maria
There is an old latin saying, "Corruptio optima pessima est." The corruption of the best is the worst.
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