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Welcome to the Ignatian Discernment Institute!

The mission of the Ignatian Discernment Institute is to equip people of all vocations to live the spiritual life with hope, joy, and fruitfulness through St. Ignatius of Loyola’s teaching on discernment.

If You Want Peace in This Life book cover

If You Want Peace in This Life

New Book Release!

by Fr. Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V.

Meet your new guide and intercessor on the journey to holiness.  Venerable Bruno Lanteri, the founder of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, lived through tumultuous times--war, revolution, and Jansenism were all raging--yet he prayerfully accompanied his spiritual directees and encouraged them to have patience and hope amid life's challenges.  This treasure trove of letters that Venerable Bruno wrote to his spiritual children will provide you with life-enhancing wisdom that you can ponder and take to heart again and again.

From Our Founders

How It All Began
by Fr. Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V.

Father Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V. in library

In this article, originally printed in Religious Life magazine, I discuss how I began to write about discernment and how the important work of Ignatius of Loyola can benefit our lives.

What is Discernment? 
by Fr. Mark Yavarone, O.M.V.

Father Mark Yavarone, O.M.V. photo

Together we can explore what is meant by discernment, understanding better the main concepts that form the foundation of this important part of Ignatian spirituality.

Why No One Is Beyond Hope 
by Fr. Mark Yavarone, O.M.V.

Fr. Mark Yavarone teaching the rules for discernment

I explore Rule 1 through the lens of the teaching of Pope Benedict XVI and of today's culture, explaining why no one is beyond hope - or help - using Ignatian rules as our guide.

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Upcoming Events

  • August 26-30 
    "Discernment in the Daily Life of Priests"
    San Bernardino, CA
    by Fr. Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V.
     

  • September 8-12
    "Discernment in the Daily Life of Priests"
    Atlanta, GA
    by Fr. Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V.
     

  • September 19-21
    Maronite Catholic Young Adult Conference
    Philadelphia, PA
    by Fr. Mark Yavarone, O.M.V

Teaching Discernment Seminar
(Click image to download PDF flyer.)

Teach Discernment flyer for Nov 6-9 event

Bringing Hope Through Ignatian Discernment

Every Christian experiences times of light and encouragement in their spiritual life, and times of heaviness or discouragement. St. Ignatius of Loyola named these movements consolation and desolation. His wisdom gives us practical tools to recognize what is happening within our hearts and to respond in a way that leads to peace, freedom, and a deeper life with God.

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Ignatian spirituality is grounded in attentiveness to God’s presence in daily life. It teaches us to notice the interior stirrings of our hearts, to discern which lead us closer to God and which draw us away, and to choose accordingly. This simple practice, refined through centuries of tradition, offers hope, clarity, and strength for all who desire to follow Christ more closely.

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The Ignatian Discernment Institute exists to share this spiritual wisdom widely. Through teaching, resources, retreats, and formation, we help people of all vocations live with greater joy, confidence, and fruitfulness in their spiritual journey.

CONTINUE THE JOURNEY

Walk with us on this journey by exploring the path that best fits your needs.

LEARN THE RULES

DEEPEN YOUR PRACTICE

EXPERIENCE IN COMMUNITY

Discover St. Ignatius’s timeless guide for recognizing God’s presence in daily life.

Access books, podcasts, and media that make Ignatian spirituality practical today.

Join us for retreats, seminars, and workshops that bring discernment to life.

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