Young people from Ghana and Nigeria have been reflecting on discernment in the digital age at the 2024 Magis Encounter currently underway in Accra.
The event which is under the auspices of the Youth Office of the North-West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus and being held from August 22 to August 25 at the Catholic Youth Formation Centre in Lashibi, is throwing a spotlight on the application of St. Ignatius of Loyola’s teachings to modern digital interactions.
Leading a group of young people earlier today, Jesuit Scholastic Joseph Ghansah, SJ, encouraged attendees to evaluate their online consumption with Ignatius’ “Rules for Discernment of Spirits,” stating, “The most important thing is to apply Ignatius’ ‘Rules for Discernment of Spirits’ to online interactions and assess whether what you consume online brings you closer to or further away from God.”
In addressing online relationships, Ghansah, SJ highlighted the need for authenticity, urging participants to discern whether their digital interactions are genuine or merely curated.
He noted, “Identify relationships that bring growth, peace, and support online. Are your online relationships in line with the 23rd annotation of the Spiritual Exercises?”
Participants were advised to step back from relationships causing harm or stress, reflecting Ignatius’ emphasis on using earthly things to aid in spiritual goals.
Touching on information overload, Ghansah, SJ advocated for intentional breaks from the digital world. He encouraged, “When faced with an overwhelming amount of information, take time to pause, reflect, and pray, just as Ignatius would in moments of uncertainty.”
He proposed a three-step exercise to help manage technology use: setting aside specific times to disconnect from digital devices, engaging in silent prayer or journaling, and reflecting on how these moments impact online behavior.
This exercise aimed to help participants reconnect with their spiritual selves amidst the digital noise.
The MAGIS Encounter provided a rich platform for young people to deepen their faith and enhance their spiritual discernment in today’s interconnected world.
Earlier in the day, the group embarked on a cleanup exercise at the Missionary Sisters of Charity orphanage in Ashaiman.
The MAGIS Encounter, deriving its name from the Latin word for “more,” invites participants to deepen their faith, strengthen relationships, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. This event brings together young people from diverse backgrounds for a unique blend of prayer, reflection, community building, and celebration, fostering personal growth and communal solidarity.
Key elements of the Encounter include reflective prayer for spiritual growth, inclusive community building, interactive workshops on Ignatian spirituality, joyous celebrations, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. The MAGIS Encounter offers an opportunity to grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and explore new horizons, encouraging participants to discover the “more” that life has to offer.
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