The Discernment of Spirits

The Discernment of Spirits: An Ignatian Guide for Everyday Living
by Timothy Gallagher
(New York: Crossroad, 2005)

Review by C. Pak and Stephen Fahrig, OMV

Fr. Gallagher expresses a very practical intention for this work:

“My aim, then, is to offer an experience-based presentation of Ignatius’ rules for discernment of spirits in order to facilitate their ongoing application in the spiritual life. This is a book about living the spiritual life.” The Discernment of Spirits, p.4

In The Discernment of Spirits, Fr. Gallagher offers a thorough study of St. Ignatius’ first set of rules for discernment, along with practical insights for applying them in one’s life. He begins with an overview of St. Ignatius’ own experience of discernment to provide living context and to properly introduce the framework that will be used throughout the book. The three steps outlined in this framework are: a) becoming aware of one’s inner stirrings (thought and affectivity); b) understanding those stirrings such that one can recognize what is of God and what is not; c) taking action by accepting and living according to what is recognized as from God and rejecting and removing from our lives what is recognized as not from God. His blend of theory and application is balanced and thoughtful.

Fr. Gallagher draws upon his own extensive experience as a retreat director to provide numerous case studies. These examples help to concretely illustrate moments of spiritual consolation and desolation and also demonstrate how to apply the rules. The Discernment of Spirits is a valuable and welcome tool for seekers and spiritual directors alike.

This review was published in Lanterianum, volume and issue info forthcoming.