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The Pursuit of More

An academic exploration into the profound Jesuit principle of striving for greater purpose and service.

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The Core Meaning

Linguistic Foundation

The term Magis is derived from Latin and translates directly to "more" or "greater." This fundamental meaning serves as the bedrock for its deeper philosophical and spiritual applications, particularly within the context of Jesuit tradition.

Aspiration and Inspiration

Beyond a simple quantitative increase, Magis embodies an aspiration for enhanced quality, depth, and commitment. It signifies a continuous striving for greater excellence, a more profound engagement, and a higher degree of dedication in one's endeavors.

Connection to the Jesuit Motto

"Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam"

Magis is intrinsically linked to the foundational Jesuit motto, Ad maiorem Dei gloriam (AMDG), which translates to "For the greater glory of God." This phrase encapsulates the ultimate purpose behind the pursuit of "more" – to act with greater devotion and effectiveness in service to a higher calling.

Service and Purpose

The principle of Magis extends this divine purpose into human action. It encourages individuals to consider: "What have I done for Christ? What am I doing for Christ? What ought I to do for Christ?" This reflective process aims to foster a deeper love for Christ and a more committed following, leading to greater service for others.

Ignatian Roots and the Spiritual Exercises

Foundational Principles

The concept of Magis is deeply embedded within the teachings of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, particularly in his Spiritual Exercises. Ignatius guided individuals to seek not just a superficial commitment, but a profound, transformative desire to follow Christ more closely and to align their choices with what is most pleasing to God.

The Principle of Indifference

Central to the Ignatian approach is the idea of "indifference" – a detachment from personal preferences that allows one to freely choose what best serves God's greater glory. This detachment enables the pursuit of Magis, ensuring that the desire for "more" is directed towards spiritual growth and service, rather than mere personal gain.

The Qualitative Nature of 'More'

Depth Over Quantity

It is crucial to understand that Magis does not advocate for simply doing more in terms of sheer volume or quantity. Instead, it emphasizes an increase in the depth, quality, and intentionality of one's actions and commitments.

The "more" in Magis refers to a more profound spiritual engagement, a more dedicated service, a more rigorous intellectual pursuit, or a more compassionate outreach. It is about the intensity of purpose and the quality of the contribution, rather than merely increasing the number of tasks performed or hours spent.

Contemporary Impact and Application

Jesuit Organizations

The principle of Magis continues to resonate strongly within contemporary Jesuit institutions. It is frequently invoked in mission statements, guiding principles, and the ethos of organizations dedicated to service and education.

Gatherings and Publications

Jesuits have organized "Magis gatherings," particularly preceding major events like World Youth Day, to share ideals rooted in the Jesuit tradition. The term also lends its name to various Jesuit journals, newspapers, and publications, underscoring its significance in disseminating Ignatian thought.

Banners and Symbols

Magis is often displayed prominently on banners and other symbolic representations associated with Jesuit education and outreach, serving as a constant reminder of the commitment to striving for greater purpose and service.

Magis in Jesuit Higher Education

Institutional Ethos

Across the globe, Jesuit universities prominently feature the concept of Magis as a central tenet of their educational philosophy. It informs their curricula, encourages academic rigor, and inspires students to engage in meaningful service.

Loyola Marymount University Example

An illustrative example is the "Magis" service organization at Loyola Marymount University. This initiative empowers students to become leaders and contribute significantly to the Los Angeles community, particularly in areas of homelessness and education. It embodies the three pillars of Service, Diversity, and Spirituality, all striving towards the "more" central to the contemporary understanding of Magis.

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References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Magis Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes exclusively. The content is derived from publicly available data and has been refined for clarity and depth, but it may not encompass all nuances or the most current information.

This is not religious, spiritual, or philosophical advice. The information presented herein is not a substitute for professional guidance from theologians, spiritual directors, or educators within the Jesuit tradition or any other relevant field. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific inquiries related to spiritual direction, theological study, or educational planning.

The creators of this content are not responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided. Users are encouraged to consult original sources and expert opinions for comprehensive understanding.