What is Magis?
If this is your first brush with MAGIS, this question is a basic introduction to this Ignatian concept. Once you’ve been on this journey for a while, however, this question becomes a constant reflection in your life. Here’s a simple guide.
MAGIS is…
…more
Literally! It is a Latin word meaning more. St Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), adopted this word as one of his mottos to help him identify how he can do more for Christ. During his convalescence after the cannonball moment, Ignatius read the lives of the saints and was inspired by their heroism and call to excellence in service of Christ and vowed to
do the same with his life. Centuries later, young Zimbabweans (and others around the world) make the same commitment to always do more for Christ in their daily lives.
…a network of young Catholics
Institutionally, MAGIS falls under the Jesuit youth apostolate which serves young people aged 18-35 who feel called to use their gifts to serve God’s people and so deepen their relationship with Him. In Zimbabwe, this network consists of young Catholics from all walks of life and all kinds of guilds. The three pillars of companionship, service and spirituality that guide our programming cultivate the gift of leadership in members, who go on to positively impact their spheres of influence.
…an experience
Every three years, the church celebrates World Youth Day, where young people from all over the world gather in one place for a week of festivities and to celebrate a special Mass with the pope. MAGIS is a 10-day experience for young Ignatians to prepare their hearts for the occasion. These young pilgrims encounter God through different experiments that immerse
them in the culture of the countries they visit and so enrich their overall outlook on life. The next WYDwill be held in South Korea in 2027.
…a lifestyle
Sure, there’s an age limit to some of the experiences, but really, one doesn’t stop being MAGIS. This lifestyle invites Ignatians to go the extra mile in whatever they do, be it work, school, volunteering, etc. It is a challenging way of life, but those committed to it find fulfillment in their efforts and create relationships that last a lifetime. In MAGIS, you will never face life’s difficulties
alone.
…what you make it!
When it’s all said and done, MAGIS is a personal journey that will look different for every member of the network. It is up to each individual to continue seeking the God of the encounter who loves us through the greatest of consolations and the most harrowing desolations.