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CATHOLIC SPIRITUALITY

Catholic spirituality is the spiritual practice of living out a personal act of faith.

Although all Catholics are expected to pray together at Mass, there are many
different forms of spirituality and private prayer which have developed over the

centuries. Each of the major religious orders of the Catholic Church and
other lay groupings have their own unique spirituality - its own way of

approaching God in prayer and in living out the Gospel.

4 MAJOR TYPES OF

CATHOLIC SPIRITUALITY

Augustinian—the Path of Devotion
Augustinian types are generally optimistic and creative, communicating and

listening well. They have big feelings and are people-oriented. Idealistic by nature,

they hunger for perfection and are future-oriented. More than any other type,

they need silence.
Franciscan—the Path of Service

Franciscans are action-oriented, open, and flexible, tending to be rather
impulsive. Generally optimistic, they are more focused on the present than the

other types and thus are more easily able to live in the freedom of the Spirit. They
need tangible, physical things to aid them in their prayer, such as sacramentals,

incense, or movement in prayer.

Ignatian—the Path of Self-Disciple
Those who are sensing-judging types are considered Ignatian, after the

spirituality of St. Ignatius Loyola. Ignatians are connected with tradition, very past-
oriented and rooted. They’re generally practical and conscientious with a strong

work ethic.

Thomistic—the Path of Intellect

People whose decisions are formed by intuiting and thinking are considered
Thomistic, after St. Thomas Aquinas. Thomistic types are inclined to be

contemplative, driven by a love of truth that can lead to perfectionism and a need
to be in control. Self-doubt and fear of failure are often a result of their
competitive nature. Thomists are future-oriented with strong goals.