Who are you? (anything you’d like to include, hometown, where you work, role etc.)

Originally from Youngstown, OH but now living and working in Cleveland, OH ad the Vice President of Mission at Saint Martin de Porres High School

How long have you worked in Jesuit education?

11 years

Any comments on the program as a whole?

I applied to the program in fits and starts between conversations with families during Parent Teacher Conferences last year. I was feeling pressed for time and more than a little bit stressed but something in my spirit told me that I should say yes to this invitation – and I am so glad that I did. Each component of the program has been thoughtfully and prayerfully planned, making all parts both meaningful and manageable to me as a retreatant. 

How has this helped you as an Ignatian educator or leader? Or, How has this helped you know and embrace the mission of your school and the Society of Jesus?

This program has helped me connect many dots and better understand what it means to be an Ignatian educator and leader. The daily prayer periods invite me to “find God in all things” on a more personal level. I know that by the end, I’ll be even more equipped to authentically model for students what it means to have a personal relationship with God and how to let that relationship inform my choices and actions. 

Would you recommend this program and why?

Yes, absolutely. Every part has been so well designed and is so accessible to busy educators. I so cherish my relationship with my spiritual director - her prayers and presence with me on this journey have been an enormous blessing. This has been a really helpful touchstone for me this year and I would recommend it to anyone. 

Who are you? (anything you’d like to include, hometown, where you work, role etc.)

Lou Cicalese, Theology Teacher at Regis HS (NYC)

How long have you worked in Jesuit education?

9 years

Any comments on the program as a whole?

The 19th Annotation retreat done this way is amazing -- truly life-changing for me. I had a prayer life before this and even used Ignatian ideals, but this retreat has opened up a whole new world of prayer and contemplation for me. I’ve taught about Jesus, I’ve learned about Jesus, I’ve prayed to Jesus, but now I can honestly say I pray with Jesus and know him on a level never captured on any graduate school theology exam I have ever taken or any lesson I’ve ever taught.  

How has this helped you as an Ignatian educator or leader? Or, How has this helped you know and embrace the mission of your school and the Society of Jesus?

I felt I was already a very invested and knowledgeable lay collaborator with the Society and at Regis in particular. Now through this retreat I have a sense of what every Jesuit has felt in the Exercises and not simply a knowledge of the Exercises. The Companions on the Way Retreat has reminded me that my teaching job is a vocation, that the harvest is abundant, and that the purpose of Regis is not ultimately the college matriculation list, but the young men who leave our doors after four years and the hearts they bring with them.

Would you recommend this program and why?

I would recommend Companions on the Way fully and without reservation. It works. If you want to learn more about yourself and God and become intimate friends with Jesus, go on this Ignatian journey -- you will not regret it.

Who are you? (anything you’d like to include, hometown, where you work, role etc.)

My name is Juliana Smith, I am originally from Brazil and have lived in the US for the past 23 years. I work at St. Andrew Nativity School in Portland, OR. I am the Campus Minister and the Religion teacher.

How long have you worked in Jesuit education?

2 years

Any comments on the program as a whole?

This program has been transformational. I have loved every moment of it. I have learned a lot about the Jesuits and Ignatian Spirituality.

How has this helped you as an Ignatian educator or leader? Or, How has this helped you know and embrace the mission of your school and the Society of Jesus?

I feel like I know way more about Ignatius and his teachings. It has made a huge difference on how I can teach about the scriptures.

Would you recommend this program and why?

I would totally recommend this program to all of the teachers of Jesuit schools. It has been one of the best experiences of my life. I have learned so much about myself and I have had amazing conversations with my mentor. It is almost like having therapy every week. I am a different person because of the Spiritual Exercises.

Who are you? (anything you’d like to include, hometown, where you work, role etc.)

I’m originally from Philadelphia and came to Baltimore, MD for college at Loyola University MD and I’ve stayed ever since.  Since graduation I’ve had the pleasure of continuing my formation in Ignatian Spirituality through working at Cristo Rey Jesuit – Baltimore for 8 years, and now working at Loyola Blakefield.  During my time as an educator I’ve taught Theology and Psychology, directed community service programming, facilitated retreats, and help implement and support diversity and inclusion initiatives.  At Loyola Blakefield I currently work in our Admissions Department as an associate. 

How long have you worked in Jesuit education?

I’ve worked in Jesuit education since 2009.

Any comments on the program as a whole?

I was looking for something that would help my spiritual life feel and be more integrated in my daily life.  I have always been drawn to the Spiritual Exercises but this particular year felt like the right time to cultivate a more seamlessly relationship with Grace.  Being able to meet virtually has not lessened the experience one bit.  I feel connected to my spiritual director and every meeting I journey deeper in my prayer and faith life.  Being able to meet with other participants in the program also creates a sense of community that, for me, strengthens the overall experience.

How has this helped you as an Ignatian educator or leader? Or, How has this helped you know and embrace the mission of your school and the Society of Jesus?

I feel like I’ve been able to recognize invitations of Grace more readily since I’ve started the program.  This has helped me be more present to the relationships in my life whether they be family, friends, colleagues, students, or strangers.  I feel more of a “flow” to my day.  Everything that happens in the day has the ability to draw me deeper into relationship with God, others, and/or myself.

Would you recommend this program and why?

I would recommend this program because I think it is very suited for the “contemplative in action.”  I’ve virtually met with my spiritual director at my home desk, my work desk, in a food hall, and in an airport.  This flexibility has allowed me to bring my faith and spirituality to all the different spaces I navigate.  My desire was to feel more integrated and I can see and feel that development happening!