Loyola celebrates Ignatian Heritage Month

Each November, the Loyola community gathers to recognize Ignatian Heritage Month by honoring the legacy of St. Ignatius of Loyola and celebrating the University’s Ignatian roots. This annual tradition provides students, faculty, and staff with an invitation for renewed action in the spirit of St. Ignatius. 

“Ignatian Heritage Month offers an exciting opportunity to celebrate the rich history and way of proceeding the Jesuits have drawn from the life of St. Ignatius of Loyola,” says Claire Noonan, vice president for Mission Integration. “This year, we have partnered with groups across the University to reflect on how the principles of Ignatian spirituality and pedagogy shape Loyola’s mission and guide its identity today.” 

In partnership with Lauren Schwer, director of Ignatian Spirituality, more than 20 Loyolans convened to create a wide variety of opportunities for Ramblers to get involved with this year’s celebration. Events begin on November 1 and include panel discussions, student workshops, art contests, and other activities designed to explore the intersection of education and the Jesuit tradition. This year’s activities also include the addition of a guided daily examen.

Community Service and Action will host an art contest inspired by the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAPs) set forth by the Jesuits: Caring for our Common Home, Journeying with Youth, Walking with the Excluded, and Showing the Way to God. Students are invited to submit photography, digital art, or visual art that expresses their thoughts and reflections on the UAPs. Submissions close Sunday, November 10.  

First-year students are invited to Reflections on Purpose on Wednesday, November 20, to hear reflections and stories from Sister Jean as she connects her life experiences with the themes from this year’s Rambler Read, Sister Jean’s biography Wake Up With Purpose! The event will feature Sister Jean in conversation with several speakers from the Loyola community. 

Find a full list of all Ignatian Heritage Month Activities here.