The inaugural Canisius Formation Course provided a dynamic immersion experience for faculty and staff from Jesuit institutions across Europe, all members of the Kircher Network. Held in Vienna at the Kardinal König Haus, the course aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of Ignatian identity and spirituality, while embedding the Jesuit educational mission in their professional lives. Designed to foster both individual and communal growth, the program offered a foundation in Jesuit values and encouraged participants to join a wider Ignatian network that spans Europe and the globe.
All course content was created by Gonzalo Villagrán SJ, Pep María SJ, Lidia Fioravanti, and Susana Di Trolio. Additionally, the course celebration was graced by the presence of Philip Geister SJ, President of the Kircher Network. Among the invited speakers, in addition to sessions led by the course organizers and the distinguished contributions of Fr. John Dardis SJ, and Fr. Joseph Christie SJ, the course also featured a session by Patrick Goujon SJ, as well as the remote participation of José de Castro SJ, who delivered his presentation, “Ignatius until he arrives in Rome: Reflecting on One’s Vocation/Purpose,” marking an inspiring start to the program.
Participants engaged in a series of thought-provoking sessions, such as exploring Ignatian discernment, led by notable Jesuit speakers. The program commenced with an insightful introduction to the life and spiritual journey of St. Ignatius of Loyola, setting a contemplative tone that invited each participant to reflect on their personal vocation and purpose. This focus on self-knowledge – understanding one’s inner self and motivations – is a hallmark of Ignatian spirituality and essential for living the Jesuit mission.
Key sessions explored the historical evolution of Ignatius as he established the Society of Jesus, emphasizing how Jesuit principles translate into contemporary education. Fr. Patrick Goujon SJ, guided discussions on how Ignatian values influence roles within institutions today, helping participants draw parallels between their own lives and the Jesuit mission. These reflections provided fresh perspectives on institutional purpose and values.
A highlight of the course was the presence of two distinguished Jesuit leaders who brought remarkable depth to the discussions: Fr. John Dardis SJ, General Counselor for Discernment and Apostolic Planning and Director of Communications at the General Curia, and Fr. Joseph Christie SJ, Secretary for Higher Education at the General Curia. Fr. Dardis spoke on the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAPs) of the Society of Jesus, emphasizing how collaboration and networking are pivotal to advancing Jesuit missions globally. Fr. Christie led a session on the Jesuit higher education network, spotlighting its role in social transformation and reconciliation – a key theme for the Jesuit mission today.
Beyond the sessions at Kardinal König Haus, participants also enjoyed a cultural visit to the historic Jesuit Church in Vienna, where they explored the deep-rooted connection between the Jesuit mission and education throughout history. The visit highlighted the enduring legacy of Jesuit contributions to intellectual and spiritual life, enriching participants’ understanding of their role within the Jesuit network.
Each day of the course concluded with an Ignatian Examen, offering participants a chance to reflect on their learnings and experiences throughout the program. The course will culminate in two online webinars: “From Professorship to Leading a Higher Education Organization” by Dr. Carlos Losada, scheduled for November 11, 2024, and “Discernment Leadership in Jesuit Higher Education” by David McCallum SJ, on November 18, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm CET.
