Pope Francis and Bernard Lonergan on Spiritual and Ethical Discernment

What is it about?

This essay draws on the Jesuit philosopher and theologian Bernard Lonergan to elucidate the way of discernment described in the writings of Pope Francis. After a reflection on the ‘First Principle and Foundation’ meditation of the Ignatian spiritual exercises highlights the Jesuit heritage shared by Francis and Lonergan, the way of discernment is located within Lonergan’s account of a contemporary cosmology. A discussion of Lonergan’s notions of affectivity, value, and deliberative judgment then illumines the challenge of practicing discernment in the context of cultural diversity. Finally, a brief review of the contributions of Patrick Byrne and Robert Doran clarifies the historical unfolding of the way of discernment.

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Why is it important?

The article contributes perspective and insight about normative discernment within the context of a contemporary, dynamic cosmology.

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