Magis, meaning “more” in Latin, is a guiding Jesuit principle that encourages striving for excellence, deeper meaning, and self-giving service to God and others.
1.1 Definition of Magis
Magis, derived from Latin meaning “more,” is a Jesuit principle that embodies the pursuit of excellence, deeper meaning, and self-giving service to God and others. It encourages individuals to discern and choose the greater good in all aspects of life, fostering a commitment to ethical conduct and sensitive social responsibility. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, Magis guides individuals to seek what is best in a particular context, rather than simply doing good. It emphasizes reflection, discernment, and a passion for excellence, aligning actions with the greater glory of God.
1.2 Historical Context of Magis in Jesuit Tradition
Magis has deep roots in Ignatian spirituality, originating from St. Ignatius Loyola’s vision of seeking the greater glory of God. Historically, it emerged as a guiding principle for Jesuits, emphasizing excellence and selfless service. The term gained prominence in Jesuit missions and educational institutions, where it inspired a commitment to ethical conduct and social responsibility. Over centuries, Magis evolved into a core value, shaping the Society of Jesus’s approach to ministry, education, and global outreach, ensuring its relevance in modern Jesuit traditions and practices.
1.3 Importance of Magis in Modern Jesuit Values
Magis remains a cornerstone of modern Jesuit values, inspiring individuals to pursue excellence and serve others selflessly. It emphasizes discernment, ethical conduct, and a passion for excellence, guiding Jesuit institutions in education, social justice, and leadership. Magis fosters a commitment to the greater good, encouraging global engagement and a sensitive social responsibility. By integrating Magis into daily life, the Jesuit community continues to uphold its mission of forming individuals who strive for more, embodying the universal good and the greater glory of God in all endeavors.
Core Jesuit Values
Core Jesuit values include Magis, Women and Men for and with Others, Cura Personalis, Unity of Heart, Mind, and Soul, and Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.
2.1 Magis: The Pursuit of Excellence
Magis, or “the pursuit of excellence,” is a Jesuit value emphasizing the continuous strive for greater heights. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, it challenges individuals to seek the “more” in life, surpassing mediocrity and aspiring to deeper meaning. This principle encourages growth, self-reflection, and discernment, guiding actions toward the greater good. By embracing Magis, Jesuits and others commit to excellence in service, education, and personal development, aligning their efforts with the greater glory of God.
2.2 Women and Men for and with Others
Magis emphasizes the importance of being “women and men for and with others,” fostering a commitment to service and compassion. This Jesuit value encourages individuals to engage in selfless acts, prioritizing the needs of others and promoting social justice. By living this principle, individuals embody the Magis spirit, striving to create a more equitable and loving world. This value is deeply rooted in Ignatian spirituality, guiding individuals to serve others with humility and generosity, reflecting the greater glory of God.
2.3 Cura Personalis: Care for the Person
Cura Personalis, or “care for the person,” is a cornerstone of Jesuit values, emphasizing the dignity and worth of every individual. It calls for a holistic approach to personal care, addressing spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, this principle encourages empathy, compassion, and a commitment to supporting others. Magis guides this value by fostering a deeper commitment to serving others with love and respect, ensuring that each person feels valued and supported in their unique journey toward fulfilling their potential.
2.4 Unity of Heart, Mind, and Soul
Unity of Heart, Mind, and Soul reflects the Jesuit ideal of integrating all dimensions of human life into a cohesive whole. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, it emphasizes harmony between one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Magis guides individuals to seek this unity by aligning their inner lives with their external actions, fostering authenticity and consistency. This principle encourages a balanced approach to life, where spiritual growth, intellectual pursuit, and emotional well-being converge to create a life lived with purpose, integrity, and devotion to the greater good.
2.5 Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the Greater Glory of God)
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, meaning “For the Greater Glory of God,” is the cornerstone of Jesuit spirituality. Rooted in Ignatian principles, it calls individuals to dedicate their actions, decisions, and lives to God’s honor. Magis guides this principle by encouraging individuals to seek excellence and serve others as a way of glorifying God. This motto emphasizes living with purpose, integrity, and devotion, ensuring that all endeavors reflect a commitment to the divine. It inspires a life of humility, gratitude, and selfless service, aligning human efforts with the greater good.
Historical Evolution of Magis
Magis traces its origins to Ignatian spirituality, emerging in the 16th century as a call to seek greater divine glory through excellence and service. Over centuries, it evolved through Jesuit missions, adapting to global contexts while maintaining its core principle of striving for more in faith and action.
3.1 Origins in Ignatian Spirituality
Magis, rooted in Ignatian spirituality, emerges from St. Ignatius Loyola’s vision of seeking the “greater” glory of God. Ignatius emphasized discernment and reflection in his Spiritual Exercises, encouraging individuals to strive for excellence and self-giving love. This principle became central to Jesuit identity, guiding their missions and ministries. Magis reflects the pursuit of more—more faith, more service, and more alignment with divine will—inspiring a life of purpose and devotion. Its origins lie in Ignatius’s transformative experiences, shaping a legacy of striving for the greater good.
3.2 Development of Magis in Jesuit Missions
Magis evolved through Jesuit missions, becoming a cornerstone of their global work. Early Jesuits applied Magis by seeking the greater good in diverse contexts, from education to social justice. Their efforts were guided by Ignatius’s principle of choosing works that promoted the greater glory of God. Missions in Asia, Europe, and the Americas exemplified this, as Jesuits adapted Magis to local needs, fostering innovation and excellence in their ministries. This adaptability ensured Magis remained a dynamic force in their service to others and the divine.
3.3 Magis in the Context of World Youth Day
Magis has become a vibrant component of World Youth Day through the MAGIS program, a pre-event gathering for young adults. Institutionalized in 2005, MAGIS offers spiritual enrichment, service opportunities, and reflection, inspiring participants to embrace Ignatian spirituality. It attracts over 2,000 youths from 82 countries, fostering global unity and a deeper connection to faith. MAGIS events are designed to help young people discern their role in the world, aligning with the Jesuit mission of seeking the greater good.
Spiritual Dimension of Magis
Magis embodies the pursuit of spiritual excellence, rooted in Ignatian discernment and reflection, guiding individuals to seek God in all things and strive for the universal good.
4.1 Magis and Discernment
Magis, rooted in Ignatian spirituality, emphasizes discernment as a core practice. It involves prayerful reflection to distinguish God’s will, guiding individuals to choose actions that align with the greater good. This principle, inspired by St. Ignatius Loyola, encourages seeking God in all things and striving for decisions that foster spiritual growth and service to others. Discernment in Magis is not just about choosing between good options but about identifying the path that leads to the most fulfilling and selfless contribution to God’s plan.
4.2 Magis in Prayer and Reflection
Magis deeply integrates into prayer and reflection, urging individuals to seek God in all aspects of life. Through contemplation and dialogue with God, one discerns His will and aligns actions with divine purpose. Prayer becomes a means to foster a deeper relationship with God, guiding decisions toward the greater good. Ignatian spirituality emphasizes reflection as a tool to uncover God’s presence, enabling individuals to embrace Magis by continually seeking more in their spiritual journey and service to others, thus embodying the Jesuit motto Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.
4.3 Magis and the Universal Good
Magis calls individuals to seek the greater good, aligning actions with the universal good. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, it emphasizes discernment to serve humanity and creation. By embracing Magis, one prioritizes selfless service, striving to contribute to the greater glory of God. This principle encourages a global perspective, fostering solidarity and compassion. It guides individuals to transcend personal interests, embracing a mission-oriented life that benefits all, reflecting the Jesuit ideal of being “contemplatives in action” for the greater good of society and the world.
Practical Applications of Magis
Magis is applied through education, social justice, leadership, and service, guiding individuals to excel and serve others, fostering a commitment to the greater good globally.
5.1 Magis in Jesuit Education
Jesuit education embodies Magis through a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Institutions encourage students to strive for more in their intellectual and moral development, fostering a sense of purpose and service. By integrating Ignatian values, Jesuit schools prepare students to become agents of change, emphasizing discernment, reflection, and a passion for excellence. This approach ensures that education is not just about knowledge but also about forming individuals who seek the greater good in all aspects of life, aligning with the Jesuit motto Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.
5.2 Magis in Social Justice
Magis in social justice inspires individuals to seek the greater good by addressing global challenges with compassion and integrity. Rooted in Ignatian values, it encourages active engagement in service to others, advocating for systemic change and equality. By fostering ethical conduct and a commitment to the universal good, Magis guides efforts to alleviate suffering and promote justice. This principle aligns with the Jesuit mission to empower individuals to act for the greater glory of God, embodying the call to strive for more in all endeavors.
5.3 Magis in Leadership and Service
Magis in leadership and service emphasizes the pursuit of excellence and the greater good. It calls leaders to embody ethical conduct, integrity, and a passion for excellence while serving others. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, Magis inspires leaders to discern and act with sensitivity to social responsibilities. By fostering a commitment to self-giving service, Magis guides leaders to create meaningful impact, aligning their actions with the Jesuit principle of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, or “For the Greater Glory of God,” ensuring that leadership is transformative and just.
Magis and Ignatian Spirituality
Magis is deeply rooted in Ignatian spirituality, emphasizing discernment and the pursuit of excellence. It inspires individuals to seek “more” in their spiritual journey and service to others.
6.1 Ignatius Loyola’s Vision of Magis
Ignatius Loyola’s vision of Magis emphasizes seeking the greater glory of God in all endeavors. Rooted in his Spiritual Exercises, Magis calls individuals to discern and choose works that lead to greater service. Ignatius believed in striving for excellence and self-giving love, reflecting his commitment to a life of deeper meaning and purpose. This vision inspires Jesuits and others to continuously seek “more” in their spiritual journey and service to others, aligning with the principle of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the Greater Glory of God).
6.2 Magis in the Spiritual Exercises
MAGIS is a key principle in Ignatian Spiritual Exercises, guiding individuals to seek God’s greater glory. It encourages reflection on life choices, discerning between good options to select the one that leads to greater service. MAGIS fosters a mindset of continuous improvement and deeper spiritual commitment. Through prayer and reflection, participants in the Exercises are inspired to pursue excellence and self-giving love, embodying the Jesuit ideal of striving for “more” in their relationship with God and service to others, aligning with Ignatian values.
6.3 Magis and the Society of Jesus
MAGIS is a cornerstone of the Society of Jesus, reflecting its mission to seek God’s greater glory. It inspires Jesuits to embrace excellence, deepen their spiritual lives, and serve others with passion. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, MAGIS guides the Society in its commitment to education, social justice, and leadership. By striving for “more,” Jesuits embody the universal good, fostering a culture of discernment and self-giving love. MAGIS shapes the identity of the Society, ensuring its efforts are aligned with the greater good and Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.
Magis in Global Contexts
MAGIS transcends borders, inspiring excellence and service globally, adapting to diverse cultural contexts while remaining true to Jesuit values of discernment, unity, and the greater good.
7.1 Magis in Europe
MAGIS Europe is an international gathering for young adults aged 18-35, fostering Ignatian spirituality and service. It began in 2005 as a prelude to World Youth Day, attracting global participants. The program emphasizes discernment, reflection, and leadership, inspiring young people to embrace Jesuit values in their daily lives. Through spiritual exercises and community service, MAGIS Europe nurtures a sense of purpose and commitment to the greater good, aligning with the Jesuit mission of seeking God in all things.
7.2 Magis in Asia
MAGIS in Asia reflects the Jesuit mission of service and spiritual growth. Through initiatives like Jesuit-run schools and social justice programs, Magis inspires young Asians to seek excellence and deeper meaning. The MAGIS program includes spiritual retreats and community service, fostering a sense of purpose among participants. By integrating Ignatian values, Magis in Asia empowers individuals to contribute to the greater good, aligning with the universal Jesuit vision of “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam” (For the Greater Glory of God).
7.3 Magis in the Americas
MAGIS in the Americas embodies the Jesuit commitment to excellence and service. Through Jesuit schools and universities, Magis inspires students to pursue spiritual growth and social justice. Programs like MAGIS 2023 in Lisbon highlight the global reach of Ignatian values. In the Americas, Magis fosters a community dedicated to discernment, reflection, and action for the greater good. By integrating faith and culture, Magis guides individuals to live authentically, serving others with passion and integrity, as envisioned by Ignatius Loyola.
Magis and Youth
MAGIS empowers young adults to embrace Ignatian spirituality, fostering leadership and service; Programs like MAGIS 2023 inspire youth to seek a deeper connection with God and others.
8.1 MAGIS 2023: A Jesuit Youth Experience
MAGIS 2023 was a transformative ten-day program preceding World Youth Day, gathering over 2,000 young adults from 82 countries. Organized by the Jesuits, it offered a unique blend of spiritual growth, community service, and cultural exchange. Participants engaged in prayer, reflection, and discernment, deepening their connection to Ignatian spirituality. The program emphasized Magis as a guiding principle, encouraging youth to seek greater meaning and purpose in their lives. It fostered global solidarity and inspired young adults to become agents of change, rooted in faith and service to others.
8.2 Magis as a Guide for Young Adults
Magis serves as a powerful guide for young adults, encouraging them to seek deeper meaning and purpose in life. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, it calls for discernment and reflection, helping youth navigate life’s challenges. By embracing Magis, young adults are inspired to pursue excellence, foster meaningful relationships, and commit to service. It encourages them to align their actions with Jesuit values, balancing personal growth with a sense of responsibility to others. Magis empowers young adults to live intentionally, guiding them toward a life of faith, compassion, and transformative impact in the world. It is a call to strive for the greater good, both personally and collectively.
8.3 Magis and World Youth Day
Magis plays a significant role in the context of World Youth Day, serving as a spiritual guide for young adults. It precedes the global event, offering a 10-day Jesuit youth experience that deepens faith and fosters community. Through Magis, participants engage in prayer, reflection, and service, aligning with Jesuit values. This program, institutionalized in 2005, gathers young people worldwide, inspiring them to embrace Ignatian spirituality and live for the greater glory of God. Magis bridges the gap between personal discernment and global unity, enriching the World Youth Day experience with a deeper sense of purpose and spiritual growth.
Magis in Education
Magis in education emphasizes excellence, service, and discernment, guiding Jesuit schools to form students as global agents of change. Educate Magis connects educators worldwide, fostering Ignatian values.
9.1 Educate Magis: An Online Community
Educate Magis is an innovative online platform connecting educators from Jesuit and Ignatian schools worldwide. It fosters collaboration, shares resources, and promotes Ignatian spirituality in education. Through this community, educators can engage in professional development, explore best practices, and integrate Jesuit values into their teaching. The platform also provides tools for discernment and reflection, aligning with the Magis principle of seeking excellence and serving the greater good in educational settings. It serves as a global network dedicated to inspiring and transforming education.
9.2 Magis and Jesuit Schools
Magis is central to Jesuit education, inspiring schools to integrate Ignatian spirituality into academic and extracurricular life. Jesuit schools embrace the principle of Magis by fostering a culture of excellence, ethical conduct, and service. They encourage students to strive for more in their intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth. Through rigorous curriculum and formative experiences, Jesuit schools prepare students to become leaders who embody the values of Cura Personalis, Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, and a commitment to the greater good.
9.3 Magis and Student Exchange Programs
Magis-inspired student exchange programs foster global understanding and leadership. Initiatives like the MAGIS student exchange program encourage students to explore their role as global agents of change. These programs integrate Ignatian spirituality, emphasizing discernment and reflection. By immersing students in diverse cultural and educational settings, they cultivate empathy, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to service. Such programs align with Jesuit values, preparing students to pursue excellence and contribute to the greater good in an interconnected world.
Magis and Leadership
Magis inspires leaders to strive for excellence, guiding them to serve others and seek the greater good, reflecting Ignatian spirituality and Jesuit values.
10.1 Magis as a Leadership Principle
Magis, meaning “more” in Latin, serves as a leadership principle that encourages striving for excellence and deeper purpose. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, it calls leaders to discern and choose actions that align with the greater good. This principle fosters ethical conduct, integrity, and a passion for excellence, guiding leaders to serve others and seek transformative outcomes. By embracing Magis, leaders embody Jesuit values, aiming to inspire and impact positively.
10.2 Magis and Ethical Conduct
Magis, meaning “more,” guides ethical conduct by encouraging leaders to seek the greater good. It promotes integrity, trust, and responsible decision-making. Leaders are urged to discern morally sound actions, aligning their choices with Jesuit values. Ethical conduct is not just adherence to rules but a commitment to justice and compassion. Magis inspires leaders to act with moral courage, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency. This principle ensures that ethical behavior is integral to leadership, reflecting the Jesuit mission of service and integrity.
10.3 Magis and Passion for Excellence
Magis, meaning “more,” embodies a passion for excellence by inspiring individuals to strive beyond the ordinary. It encourages continuous improvement, fostering a culture of achievement and dedication. Rooted in Jesuit values, Magis calls for pursuing greatness not for personal glory but for the greater good. This principle motivates leaders to innovate, take risks, and aim for superior outcomes in all endeavors. By embracing Magis, individuals cultivate a mindset of relentless pursuit of excellence, aligning their efforts with the Jesuit mission of service and transformative impact.
Magis and Social Justice
Magis inspires the pursuit of a more just world, driving individuals to address global challenges and serve others with compassion, aligning actions with the greater good.
11.1 Magis and Service to Others
Magis emphasizes serving others as a central commitment, reflecting the Jesuit mission to act for the greater good. It calls individuals to go beyond their comfort zones, embracing selflessness and compassion. By prioritizing the needs of others, Magis fosters a deeper connection to the community and the world, aligning actions with the universal good and the teachings of Ignatian spirituality. This principle inspires meaningful service that transforms lives and promotes justice globally.
11.2 Magis and Global Challenges
Magis addresses global challenges by inspiring bold, compassionate responses to pressing issues like poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. Rooted in Ignatian values, it calls for discernment and action that prioritize the greater good. By fostering collaboration and innovation, Magis empowers individuals and communities to tackle complex problems with creativity and resilience. This principle encourages a proactive approach to global crises, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared responsibility in creating a more just and sustainable world for all.
11.3 Magis and Sensitive Social Responsibility
Magis emphasizes the importance of sensitive social responsibility, guiding individuals to address societal needs with empathy and cultural awareness. It encourages ethical conduct, integrity, and a commitment to justice, fostering a deeper understanding of global issues. By prioritizing compassion and inclusivity, Magis inspires meaningful engagement with marginalized communities. This principle calls for thoughtful action that respects diversity and promotes human dignity, ensuring that efforts to serve others are both effective and heartfelt, reflecting the Jesuit values of love and service.
Magis, a Jesuit principle, inspires excellence, service, and ethical conduct, guiding individuals to seek the greater glory of God while fostering compassionate action for a better world.
12.1 Summary of Magis
Magis, a Latin term meaning “more,” embodies the Jesuit principle of striving for excellence, deeper meaning, and self-giving service. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, it encourages discernment and ethical conduct, guiding individuals to seek the greater glory of God. Magis inspires a commitment to education, social justice, and compassionate action, fostering a global perspective. It challenges individuals to go beyond the ordinary, embracing challenges for the universal good. Through Magis, Jesuit values are lived out in service to others, promoting a world where faith and action converge for the greater good.
12.2 The Future of Magis
The future of Magis lies in its ability to inspire innovation and adaptability while remaining rooted in Jesuit values. As a guiding principle, Magis will continue to empower individuals and communities to strive for excellence and service. Through global collaboration and digital platforms like Educate Magis, it will foster a culture of discernment and ethical leadership. The next generation, particularly youth, will play a pivotal role in carrying forward the Ignatian vision, ensuring Magis remains a dynamic force for the greater good in an evolving world.