Prayer for Lifetime Prayer Partner

Summary

This prayer opens a new semester with a celebration of beginnings, invoking divine guidance for a transformative journey through Ignatian spirituality. It emphasizes critical discernment, humility, and a commitment to values such as kindness, love, and responsibility. Inspired by the lives of saints, the prayer encourages students to honor their parents' sacrifices and strive for excellence as 'Athenians.' The call to be compassionate leaders resonates throughout, highlighting the importance of making good decisions and embodying love as a mission, ultimately aspiring to create a lasting legacy of kindness.

Takeaways

• 🙏 Acknowledge the importance of new beginnings as the semester starts.
• ❤️ Express gratitude for God's love and mercy.
• 🚶‍♂️ Emphasize the journey of faith as a collective Ignatian pilgrimage.
• 🧠 Encourage critical discernment and a responsive mindset.
• 🏛️ Highlight the unique gifts of the university through Ignatian spirituality.
• 💡 Seek wisdom and humility to embody authentic living.
• 🌟 Inspire excellence in honor of parents and guardians' sacrifices.
• 📖 Learn from the exemplars of faith: St. Ignatius, Father Pedro Arrupe, St. Teresa of Kolkata, and St. John Paul II.
• 🔥 Promote zeal and fervor in embracing the mission of leadership.
• 💖 Conclude with the mission of love and kindness, as taught by Father Arrupe.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the prayer at the beginning of the semester?

The prayer seeks blessings for a new semester, expressing gratitude for God's love and mercy while asking for guidance and discernment in the upcoming journey.

What specific qualities does the prayer ask for from God?

The prayer asks for wisdom, humility of heart, a critical and discerning mindset, and the ability to appreciate the gifts of the university.

Who are the four exemplars of faith mentioned in the prayer?

The exemplars mentioned are St. Ignatius of Loyola, Father Pedro Arrupe, St. Teresa of Avila, and St. John Paul II.

What mission does the prayer emphasize for the students?

The prayer emphasizes the mission of being loving, responsible, and kind, and encourages students to be 'su generis' leaders.

How does the prayer connect to the concept of Ignatian spirituality?

The prayer highlights the importance of discernment and appreciation for the university's distinctive gifts through the lens of Ignatian spirituality.

What does the phrase 'fall in love, stay in love' signify in the context of the prayer?

This phrase, attributed to Father Arrupe, signifies the transformative power of love and its central role in guiding life decisions.

What values does the prayer encourage students to uphold?

The prayer encourages students to uphold values such as kindness, responsibility, authenticity in prayer, and the appreciation of parental sacrifices.

In what ways does the prayer suggest practicing good decision-making?

The prayer suggests practicing good decision-making based on kin discernment, which involves thoughtful reflection and moral considerations.

What is meant by the term 'Athenians' in the context of the prayer?

'Athenians' refers to students of the university, encouraging them to embody excellence and the values taught within the academic environment.

What overarching theme does the prayer convey regarding community and faith?

The overarching theme conveys a collective journey of faith, emphasizing the importance of community, collaboration, and shared spiritual growth.