The mental quality of thought that drove St Ignatius’ vibrant spiritual life was his remarkable imagination.
It played a central role in his conversion. Through his many years of directing others, he discovered how useful the imagination could be in fostering a deeper relationship with God.
Imaginative prayer is recognized as one of the hallmarks of Ignatian spirituality. In its most common form, you take a passage from scripture, usually one of the gospels, and immerse yourself in it imaginatively using all the senses. You feel the heat of the day, smell the livestock and clouds of dust on the road, listen to Jesus’ words, watch his actions.
It’s a way to engage the gospel personally, with all of our faculties.
Some excellent imaginative contemplation exercises provided by the English Jesuits can be accessed at: https://www.newpilgrimpath.ie/