For someone who’s never experienced an extended period of silence, the 30 day silent retreat that Jesuits make at the beginning and end of their formation might seem like a crazy idea. That’s 4 entire weeks without having to clock in at work, make it to a class, pay a bill, answer email, update your Facebook status, see a movie, or read a newspaper.  So what else is there?  When you strip away all the stuff that fills life – what’s left?

Well, you should really ask a Jesuit novice.

The novices of the Oregon and California Provinces both finished their long retreats yesterday.  But they might not be all that easy to get a hold of – after all, four weeks away from email can be just the thing to provide a little pause to the rapid fire communication of our world.  So, if you’re really interested and that interest lasts for at least a few days, then shoot us an email and he’ll help you get in touch in those guys.  That way you can learn more about the truly radical life of a Jesuit novice.

The questions are real: What do you want of your life?  If you could do anything with your life, what would it be?