How do We Live and Practice the Ignatian Identity/Ethos of our School

What Ignatius gives us is not a scholastic or academic theology; it is not a theory, but a theology that is lived and practiced. In this sense too, our theology becomes a daily action, shaping and making our lives.»

We need to care for the whole person: body, mind and spirit and dedicate ourselves in promoting human dignity by being open to and accepting a person’s religious, spiritual and cultural development. We as Ignatian should believe in seeking justice for all God’s creatures, especially the poor and marginalized. We should recognize that all humans have physical, emotional and spiritual needs and thus encourage ourselves in promoting solidarity.

One’s energy should be determined in the service of Christ, and the desire to participate as completely as possible in the work of salvation which requires a disciplined asceticism of love for God and for neighbor.

Relationships with students and staffs should be unique and distinct. Within the school we believe in many focuses such as, Men and women for others and finding God in all things and to set the world alight. We need to inspire our students to strive for greatness that is to lighten up the dark world with their personal talents and Ignatian qualities. Together we all must be empowered with love, compassion and a willingness to face the difficulties that we may come across.

INSTEAD OF LIVING JUST FOR ONESELF, LIVE FOR OTHERS

St. Lawrence High School ethos reflects our beliefs within the school and includes values which the school promotes across its curriculum sets the climate and outlook of the school. Relationships with students and staff is what make St. Lawrence High School so unique and distinct from other schools.

Students here are reminded to be “Men and Women for others.” To be Men and Women for others means to be able to use our Ignatian qualities to help others and serve God and also be men and women of conscience, competence and compassionate service. Men and Women not for themselves however for the love of God and Christ.

To serve God we first must serve others, as God told us to care for our peers and others who believe in the trinity. In order to show God our love and service we must serve in a way which benefits others. When we help others, we are showing our service to God and displaying the Ignatian qualities which we are taught.

The Ignatian approach to good choices emphasizes freedom. Making a free decision means that we set aside our own preferences and preconceptions and strive to be free of social pressures and psychological strains.

The Ignatian approach requires work. It asks that we make every reasonable effort to find God’s will. This involves a sincere commitment to pray and to achieve self-knowledge. We need to gather all the relevant information about our alternatives and carefully weigh all the circumstances and likely outcomes. Decision making in the Ignatian mode involves both the heart and the mind.