The Crucible of Racism: Ignatian Spirituality and the Power of Hope

Upon coming to the United States to pursue graduate studies and then to embark on training as a Jesuit, Haitian-born Patrick Saint-Jean discovered something he had not known before: racism. "I learned I am a Black man--and that America, including the Society of Jesus here in this country, is white space where people of color are not welcome. This direct experience of racism became a crucible for me." In describing this painful journey, which included becoming aware of the ambiguous history of his own Jesuit order, Saint-Patrick embarked on a fresh reading of The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. The basic principles of Jesuit formation--the "discernment of spirits," the examination of conscience, the imaginative identification with Jesus in his sufferings, death, and resurrection--became an entry to his own journey of hope and resurrection. These principles and practices, he concludes, hold promise of conversion and healing for a church and a society still caught in the crucible of racism.