Jesuit Education

Mission Orientation Session 4
Developing People of Competence and Compassion

Session 4 of this orientation series speaks of a Jesuit university’s mission as “Developing people of Competence and Compassion.” First read through "The Ignatian Vision" compiled by George Traub, SJ from Xavier University. Think about how this vision is carried out in your experience at Seattle University.

Reading:

“The Ignatian Vision” by George Traub, S.J.

  • Sees life and the whole universe as a gift calling forth wonder and gratefulness.
  • Gives ample scope to imagination and emotion as well as intellect.
  • Seeks to find the divine in all things - in all peoples and cultures, in all areas of study and learning, in every human experience (and, for the Christian, especially in the person of Jesus).
  • Cultivates critical awareness of personal and social evil, but points to God's love as more powerful than any evil.
  • Stresses freedom, need for discernment, and responsible action.
  • Empowers people to become leaders in service, "men and women for others," "whole persons of solidarity," building a more just and humane world.

Video:

Next watch the video “Developing People of Competence and Compassion.” 

                  

Reflection Questions:

After viewing the video, reflect on the following questions:   

  • Which characteristic of the Ignatian Vision speaks most strongly to you? Why? 
  • How effectively do you think Seattle University is responding to the vision expressed in this video? ---Does the vision of “competence and compassion” make sense to you as a way of expressing SU’s mission? If so, do you see ways for the group you work with to help in assuring this vision?