“The Journey from Reformation to Transformation:

The 12 Steps and the

Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola”

Tuesdays, October 15-November 19 | 3-4:30 PM | In Person

Presented by Rev. Gerry McKeon, S.J. at the Spiritual Renewal Center

1342 Lancaster Ave, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA

Bill Wilson, the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, met Fr. Eddie Dowling, S.J. in New York City on a winter night of rain and sleet. It was the beginning of a friendship between two people walking a similar journey toward spiritual freedom. During their time together, Fr. Dowling pointed out the resemblance between Twelve Step Spirituality and the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola.

During six Tuesdays from Oct. 15 – Nov. 19, we will explore 12 Step Spirituality from the perspective of the Spiritual Exercises. We will gather as a group from 3:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. The talks will explore themes from the Spiritual Exercises which address the call to become freed from our addictions, and freed for a life of loving service, walking with Christ crucified and risen. Material will also be drawn from the Big Book, the 12 and 12, and other 12 Step literature. People familiar with either or both spiritual paths will find encouragement for their spiritual growth. The retreat will also encourage private prayer with suggested meditations or contemplations for each day. Scripture will be the primary resource for daily prayer. 

Suggested fee: $25 each week/$150 for 6 week retreat.

Fr. Gerry McKeon, S.J. lives in the Jesuit Community at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York. He is a staff member at the Spiritual Renewal Center in Syracuse, where he offers Spiritual Direction, and Retreats in Everyday life. He also serves as a visiting Retreat Director at Eastern Point Retreat House, Gloucester, MA. His other ministries include Hospital Chaplaincy, and Chaplaincy at a local County Jail.