Eli’s Mind

(1) The English Reformation, initiated by King Henry VIII in the 16th century, was primarily driven by political and personal reasons, with the king seeking an annulment from his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. This led to the establishment of the Church of England and a break from the authority of the Pope while maintaining many Catholic rituals and doctrines. In contrast, the German Reformation, spearheaded by Martin Luther, had a more profound theological basis, challenging core Catholic beliefs such as justification by faith alone. Luther’s movement resulted in the formation of various Protestant denominations with distinct doctrinal differences.

(2) In the letter discussing St. Francis Xavier’s missionary work in lesson 13, we learn about his fervent dedication to spreading Christianity in Asia during the 16th century. The letter highlights his encounters with diverse cultures, challenges faced in the missions, and his unwavering commitment to converting individuals to Christianity, emphasizing both the spiritual and practical aspects of his endeavors.

(3)(a) The Spiritual Exercises leave an impression of a deeply contemplative and structured guide to spiritual discernment. It is a transformative journey designed to help individuals deepen their relationship with God through prayer, reflection, and self-examination. The Exercises provide a methodical approach to developing a sense of inner peace, discerning one’s purpose, and aligning oneself with divine will.

(3)(b) Ignatius is concerned about careless discussion of faith and good works because he believes it can lead to spiritual complacency or confusion. He emphasizes the importance of approaching these matters with thoughtful consideration and discernment, cautioning against superficial or hasty discussions that might distort the true essence of faith and good works. Ignatius seeks a sincere and profound understanding of these concepts to foster a more meaningful and transformative spiritual journey.