Using Bernard Lonergan's cognitive method in discerning self as self-in-relation
Many writers I read on the topic of spiritual direction suggest that a goal of spiritual direction is supporting and encouraging directees in the development of a sense of self as self-in-relation with God and the world. While most writers call for a holistic approach, few offer concrete strategies for combining heart and mind, body and soul, or for assisting directees in articulating their emerging sense self as self-in-relation. Some, in fact, deny the effectiveness of cognitive approaches in the affective domain and the application of cognitive methodologies to religious experience, whereas I propose that the cognitive process of identifying and naming experience is essential to understanding self and making decisions and life choices.
Seeking a sense of self-in-relation necessitates a surrender of the
autonomous self while seeking to affirm inner authority and
authenticity, and connectedness with God and others. It involves
examining patterns of past experiences and objectifying feelings,
longings, intuitions, fears, guilts, shame, needs and desires. Bernard
Lonergan’s cognitive methodology offers a schema for exploring recurrent
life patterns in ways which can sit within discernment beside
scripture, theology, tradition, and the recalling of past life-giving
relationships. The method focuses on the conscious feelings which
precede knowledge, then processing those conscious feelings in order to
act authentically. I suggest that the outcome creates opportunities for
exploring the acquired learning about self, God and others in everyday
life with fresh insights.
Janelle Macgregor is a Uniting Church minister and practising
spiritual director. This paper arises from postgraduate research
undertaken in ministry practice at Murdoch University, 2009-2010.
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