Spiritual Exercises in Everyday Life 

Are you called to deepen your spiritual journey and guide others in their faith? This comprehensive 17-month formation program is designed for individuals aspiring to become Certified Ignatian Spiritual Directors and Directors of the 19th Annotation of The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. This program, open to candidates from all Christian denominations, offers a dynamic blend of in-person and virtual classes on a monthly basis, ensuring that participants receive a well-rounded and immersive experience. 

Program Overview

The program's curriculum is extensive, encompassing prayer experiences, monthly readings from books and articles, independent study projects, reflection papers, and presentations by experts in Ignatian Spirituality. During the second half of the program, participants will engage in a practicum, providing an opportunity to apply their learning in a real-world setting. Additionally, periodic retreat days are scheduled to promote ongoing spiritual growth, education, and fellowship. 

This program is rooted in a formation model developed by the Jesuits about 45 years ago, originally implemented on the West Coast, and now, for the first time, being offered on the East Coast. Participants will be prepared as "well-formed" Ignatian Spiritual Directors, equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide others through the transformative process of The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.

Below is a detailed overview of the program's commitments and requirements, including attendance, participation, and the practicum. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion and membership in the Cohort Community.

A Certificate of Completion

After successful completion of the program requirements and in discernment with the Program Directors, a Certificate of Completion as a Certified Ignatian Spiritual Director and Director of The 19th Annotation of The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola will be conferred in May 2028. 

Commitments

• Attendance and participation in each class and retreat day.

• Actively engage in all formation seminars.

• Participate in small and large group discussions.

• Monthly readings for class.

• Monthly reflection papers.

• Complete assigned book reports.

• Complete an independent study project.

• Provide, assigned “in-class” presentations.

• Submit “Process Notes” during the practicum period.

• Receive individual supervision during the Practicum period.

• Participate in “retreat days” taking place at Loyola Jesuit Center and Saint Joseph’s University.

• During the Practicum period of September, 2027 through May, 2028, participants will direct at least one retreatant who will make the 19th Annotation Retreat.  Director and retreatant will meet weekly.

Prerequisites and Application

Acceptance into the program requires the completion of an online application, letters of recommendations and a successful interview. Other features of an ideal candidate include:

• Has made the full Spiritual Exercises according to the 19th Annotation or 20th Annotation (30-day) formats with a Certified Spiritual Director of The Spiritual Exercises.

• Is a Christian who currently is actively engaged in a faith community and has been thus so for at least three years.

• Finds prayer to be an essential and foundational part of her or his life.

• Is currently engaging in monthly spiritual direction and has been thus so for at least three years.

Cost

Tuition for the formation program is $2,000.  Tuition does not include the cost of books, travel expenses, or overnight accommodations.

Program Directors

Beverly J. Delleart
bjdsd@optonline.net
Certified Spiritual Director; Director of The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, both the 19th & 20th (30-day) Annotations; Formator of Ignatian Directors; Supervisor of Spiritual Directors; Adjunct Spiritual Director for weekend and directed retreats; Retreat Presenter; Coordinator of the offering of Spiritual Direction; Supervision; Private, Directed Retreats, and both the 19th & 20th (30-day) Retreats of The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola at Loyola Jesuit Center in Morristown, New Jersey.

Rev. Daniel R. J. Joyce, S.J.
djoyce@sju.edu
Vice President of Mission & Ministry at Saint Joseph’s University.  Director of The Alliance For Catholic Education and the Education Fellows Program.  Adjunct Professor of Theology and Religious Studies.