Jesuit Institute South Africa in a new collaborative partnership with Richmont Graduate University, the Martin Institute and Conversatio Divina.

The Jesuit Institute South Africa is excited to announce that we have partnered with Richmont Graduate University in Atlanta, Georgia, the Martin Institute for Christianity and Culture, and its resource development initiative, Conversatio Divina at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California, to teach a specialisation in Ignatian Spirituality. 

Dr Josh Rice, Provost and Dean of the School of Ministry commenting on the partnership, said, “We are so pleased to have found a partner with such a missional fit. The Jesuit Institute South Africa is renowned for training students in Christian spiritual formation, and we look forward to continuing this legacy alongside them.”

Conversatio Divina Director, Dr Gary Moon, said, “The Martin Institute is delighted to be partnering with the Jesuit Institute of South Africa in offering a remarkable training program designed to help equip more spiritual directors to better offer the Spiritual Exercises.”

The course focuses specifically on training people to give the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius Loyola. It runs over one year. There is a weekly class and also supervised practical training. Those who wish to do this course must have completed the Spiritual Exercises.

Those registered in Richmont’s Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation and Leadership will receive nine credits upon completing the course offered internationally by the Jesuit Institute South Africa.

“There is a deep alignment between Ignatian Spirituality and the ethos of Richmont, as both leverage classical resources to equip disciples in spiritual direction and formation. This exciting partnership further empowers these mutual strengths!” said Dr Sam Youngs, Senior Consultant and Adjunct Professor and Church History and Theology.

Director of the Jesuit Institute South Africa, Fr Russell Pollitt SJ, said the Institute was delighted to share in this collaborative international partnership. “The Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius Loyola is a gift that transcends far beyond any denomination. Our commitment to working together testifies that the Spiritual Exercises belong to the whole people of God – in the broadest sense. The Exercises, when guided well, can be life-transforming. Our partnership enables us to help others realise this potential.”

Fr Pollitt said, “As Christ-followers today, we can now offer a life-changing and re-orientating experience to people across the globe. We are blessed to share in this ministry and assist others to offer God's people this timeless and priceless spiritual gift. We greatly appreciate our relationship and those who have made it possible”.