by Stephen Reilly

‘It is not the time of your judgement, but of our judgement: a time to choose what matters and what passes away, a time to separatewhat is necessary from what is not’.1 As parishes emerge from post Covid hibernation, Pope Francis’ Urbi et Orbi message challenges us to choose what must pass away and what remain, so that normal business will not resume in abnormal times.

As we wrestle with the new challenges – theological, pastoral, practical – we can turn to a deep and reliable source hugely influential upon the Pope himself: the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius. I would like to highlight particular moments in the Exercises which can inspire parishes to shape their future with faith and courage.