One Jesuit's Spiritual Journey; Autobiographical Conversations with Jean-Claude Dietsch, S.J.
St. Louis: The Institute of Jesuit Sources, 1986. Octavo, original stiff printed wrappers with photographs to front and back panels. Fine. Item #1369
"THE CHURCH IS AT THE SERVICE OF THE WORLD, AND OUGHT TO BRING GOD TO IT"
First English translation of these extended conversations with Pedro Arrupe—the spiritual testament of the revered (and controversial) Superior General of the Society of Jesus at the peak of his influence.
Sometimes referred to as the "Black Pope" (in reference to the plain black Jesuit cassock), the Superior General of the Society of Jesus is said to be second only in spiritual power to the Holy Father. In May 1965, Arrupe was elected as Superior General of the Society of Jesus, a position he held for two decades. "The new 'Father General' encouraged his brother Jesuits to adjust the Spiritual Exercises for the current world, to redouble their work with the poor and marginalized, and to promote the 'faith that does justice.' This emphasis on justice as an essential component of the gospel was what Arrupe would become most known for" (James Martin).
These interviews, conducted between Christmas 1980 and Easter 1981, were compiled before "Don Pedro" suffered a debilitating stroke in August 1981. They were first published in France in 1982—after an interim Superior General had been appointed but before Arrupe's resignation in September 1983. "Father Arrupe today in 1982 no longer exercises the responsibilities which were his at the time of the interviews" (Jean-Claude Dietsch). Translated by Ruth Bradley (with her Note of Thanks from the Translator) and published by The Institute of Jesuit Sources. Issued as number V in a series of Arrupe's books, with a helpful Editor's Foreword by George E. Ganss, S.J. James Martin. My Life with the Saints.
Price: $50.00