The Discernment of Spirits

by Timothy M. Gallagher

Book Overview

St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, is one of the most influential spiritual leaders of all time, yet many readers find his Rules for Discernment hard to understand. What can Ignatius teach us about the discernment of spirits that lies at the very heart of Christian life? In The Discernment of Spirits, Fr. Timothy Gallagher, a talented teacher, retreat leader, and scholar, helps us understand the Rules and how their insights are essential...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0824522915
• ISBN13: 9780824522919
• Release Date: September 2005
• Publisher: Crossroad Publishing
• Length: 232 Pages
• Weight: 0.77 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.9" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Practical layout of discernment

This book is well worth the read for Christians who have a hard time discerning whether something is coming from God, themselves, or the evil one. Fr. Gallagher provides a great explanation of St. Ignatius’ rules which help us to understand what is going on spiritually within ourselves and with the spiritual world AND what our response should then be. This book is definitely a safe read if you're sensitive to the topic of demons. It is mentioned, as demons are a reality (and thus necessary to mention), but without details one could find worrisome. Fr. Gallagher also has a podcast interview-series as well that you can use to supplement alongside or listen to before reading this book (About 30min per chapter). The book definitely gives more examples and provides a richer understanding of St. Ignatius' rules. Even if Ignatian spirituality is not your spirituality, the practicality these rules provide for the spiritual life is priceless. Highly recommend!