Ignatian Spirituality and Leadership Conference

Two Pope Leos: The 135-Year Commitment to Diversity, Social Justice, and Global Inclusiveness
Presented by: Ed Beckett - Vice President for Mission, Identity, and Inclusion, Gesu School

Catholic Social Teaching is an enduring element in the Catholic tradition. Examining its impact from the 19th century articulation of Pope Leo XIII to the 21st century papacy of Leo XIV provides us with an arc of reflection that examines both the promulgation of the teaching and its reception.

Walking in the Footsteps of Ignatius Loyola: Leadership Development on el Camino Ignaciano
Presented by: Stephen Porth - Professor of Management, Saint Joseph’s University

This breakout session will describe an innovative and uniquely Jesuit leadership development course that the presenter developed and taught along el Camino Ignaciano, the name of the path in Spain taken by Ignatius in his voyage of self-discovery. This session will also provide access to academic and logistical resources so attendees from various disciplines in Jesuit education can adapt and use these resources to create their own courses or immersive experiences along el Camino.

The Importance of the Eucharist in a Synodal Church
Presented by: Sr. Margaret Scott, A.C.I. - Handmaids of the Sacred Heart; Author of The Eucharist and Social Justice and Ignatius Was Green: Ecological Dimensions of the Spiritual Exercises

Pope Francis emphasized the strong connection between the Eucharist and synodality, viewing both as crucial for the Church's life and mission. He saw synodality as the dynamic expression of the Church's nature as communion, deeply rooted in the Eucharist. He saw synodality as a way of living out the Church's identity as a community gathered around the Eucharist. My presentation will illustrate this belief – both his and mine.

Being a Contemplative in Action Amid the Current Challenges of Our Time
Presented by: Sr. Bethany Welch, SSJ, PhD - Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation Coordinator, U.S. Federation of the Sisters of St. Joseph

Beyond simply "finding God in all things," how can we locate the courage, energy, and compassion we need to face the current challenges of our time? The invitation of St. Ignatius of Loyola to be a "contemplative in action" is particularly compelling during these days of political shift and global uncertainty. In this session, we will review two Ignatian practices that can help us be attentive to the Spirit's movement while discerning how to take action for the common good. 

Responding to the Green Light: Catholic Reactions to Laudato Si’  and Laudate Deum in the United States
Presented by: William Kuncken - Theology Department, St. Joseph’s Preparatory School

This session explores how U.S. Catholics have responded to Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum, offering insight into what publicly available data reveals about the broader reception of Pope Francis’s groundbreaking encyclical and subsequent apostolic exhortation. It also considers intellectual critiques and how Catholic communities, parishes, and schools in the United States can advance Pope Francis's ecologically inclusive vision.

Companions on the Journey: Community, Ignatian Spirituality, and Synodality 
Presented by: Alexis Larios - Doctoral Student, Boston College Clough School of Theology and Ministry

This session explores the theme of community within the Ignatian tradition and in light of the recent Synod on Synodality. The session is ideal for those who are interested in further developing community in their professional and personal lives. Participants will be invited to reflect on their own circles of community and the ways in which community sustains and enriches their leadership and vocational commitments. Participants will leave with ideas, resources and an action plan for being community builders and collaborators in their personal and professional lives. 

Discernment: Discovering God's Will in Everyday Life
Presented by: Michael Romeu-Lugo - Member, SEEL Ignatian Spiritual Direction Program; Information Security Professional

Where is God leading me to? Ignatian discernment is the prayerful process of listening to the movements of the heart to recognize God's guidance in daily life and decision-making. This breakout session offers an engaging introduction to Discernment in Ignatian spirituality—an age-old practice of tuning into the movement of the Spirit within your everyday thoughts and emotions. Discover how the principles of Consolation and Desolation can guide you toward deeper purpose, peace, and freedom in decision-making. Whether you’re navigating a crossroads or simply seeking a more attentive spiritual life, this session invites you to begin the journey of discovering God’s invitations through the lens of the heart.

Empowerment in Higher Education through Synodality
Co-presented by: Meghan Dietzler - Associate Director for Peer Ministry, Villanova University, Elizabeth McNamee - Director, Sisters of Saint Joseph Center for Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation; Adjunct Instructor, Saint Joseph's University, and Anna Ryan-Bender - Director of Campus Ministry at Chestnut Hill College

In this presentation, ministers who are part of Synodality in Catholic Higher Education in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (SCHEAP) will discuss how empowering young people through the spiritual dispositions and practices of synodality fosters deeper conversations and relationships in both curricular and co-curricular settings. The session will also include a “conversation in the Spirit” and invite participants to make concrete contributions to the synodal process in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Opening Keynote:

“The Power of the Pilgrim's Heart: Insight from the Ignatian Way" by Christine Marie Eberle '87

Second Keynote:

"Will Pope Francis Leave for Us a More 'Ignatian' Church?" by Sr. Jessica Kerber A.C.I.