IPS and Pontifical Gregorian University partner on Christian Spirituality degree
Dean Brian Schmisek recently traveled to Rome for the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Loyola University Chicago Institute of Pastoral Studies (IPS) and fellow Jesuit institution, the Pontifical Gregorian University (PGU).
This agreement between IPS and PGU essentially means that IPS will accept the “Diploma in Ignatian Spirituality” offered at PGU as twelve (12) credits towards the “Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality,” a 36-hour degree program offered here at IPS.
This agreement will be in effect for six years, after which time it may be renewed.
Of this recent development, IPS Dean Schmisek says, “This past August when Fr. Sosa [Father General of the Society of Jesus] encouraged Jesuit universities to work together, share resources, and collaborate, we immediately though of our MA in Christian Spirituality and the Diploma in Ignatian Spirituality offered at the Greg. Then last month, the Society named “Discernment and the Spiritual Exercises” as one of its four priorities [universal apostolic preferences] in the coming years. So this agreement comes at an opportune time, especially when so many are looking to the resources of Ignatian Spirituality for the modern world.”
Fr. James Grummer, SJ, the superior of the Pontifical Gregorian University Jesuit Community in Rome and director of the Ignatian Spirituality Center at PGU, adds, “The diploma program we offer at the Gregorian allows students to learn a great deal about Ignatian spirituality in an exceptional atmosphere. Since our teachers and students come from all over the world, they have a unique opportunity to learn with one another. The different experiences and perspectives they bring to class illuminate the breadth and depth of the Ignatian tradition in ways that transform the participants academically, professionally, and personally.”
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