Invitations to Grow Spiritually

Worship God with Us

One of the easiest ways to grow spiritually is to attend a Sunday mass at St. Francis Xavier Parish. Through our sense of community, the involvement of the faithful at church, and the preaching done shows aspects of a God who is present in our world and active in our lives. Each mass has a distinct feel as you may notice the music, congregation, and mood different for a particular time.

Find a Spirituality

There are different spiritualities that exist within the Catholic Church. Spiritualities can be thought of as being different bridges to our Creator God. One spirituality is not better than another; it is just what fits you.

Here at St. Francis Xavier Parish - though we are steeped in Ignatian Spirituality, we recognize different pathways to help us be connected to God. To that end, we support the offerings of different prayer and/or small groups such as the Legion of Mary, scripture study found in the Men’s Ministry and Christ In Our Neighborhood, centering prayer, and book studies focused on contemplation. So consider trying out any of these ministries.

Ignatian Spirituality: An Everyday Pathway to God

Ignatian spirituality is a spirituality for everyday life. It insists that God is present in our world and active in our lives. Ignatian Spirituality is a pathway to God through meditative prayer, good decisions guided by discernment, and an active life of service and justice to others.

As a layperson, St. Ignatius of Loyola wrote the Spiritual Exercises and Daily Examen as a way of helping each of us deepen our relationship with God. St. Ignatius came up with a specific kind of spiritual direction and conversation. On our staff of Jesuit priests and lay people in our staff and volunteers, we offer opportunities for parishioners to take on some aspect of the Spiritual Exercises, spiritual direction, and spiritual conversation. These offerings are normally individualized.

As a communal experience in March, we hold the Novena of Grace in honor of St. Francis Xavier from March 4 through March 12, joining with one another in intentional prayer. Talks are given through the lens of Ignatian Spirituality.

Connect: Small Groups and Ministries

Even though our church is a wonderfully welcoming community, it may help to connect with people on a smaller level. Joining a small group such as found in Christ in Our Neighborhood, Men’s Ministry, the Young Adult Ministry, and Marriage Ministry can help you share your faith on a more personal and intimate basis.

Also, getting plugged into the community by service may be another great way to meet folks. Volunteering to deliver food to the needy through St. Vincent de Paul, selling gifts in the Marian Shop, or serving at mass are one of many ways to get connected with folks while loving our neighbor.