The audio retreat with Father Larry Gillick, a Jesuit priest, is wonderful. You will need to find some quiet time to appreciate this material, which can be hard with the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping/parties/cooking/traveling, but I think you will find it very worthwhile, if for no other reason than to slow down, take a deep breath, quiet our internal dialogue and listen.
I imagine a fair number of people look at religion in general, or maybe Christianity or Catholicism specifically, and are immediately put off by some preconceived ideas.
If you listen to Father Gillick you will begin to see he is talking about an inclusive loving attitude where we all share our human flaws - and beauty. We are loved by God just as we are. It's a powerful message that moves a person to love themself. A way of working from inferiority, believing we aren't good enough, to the belief that we are works in progress, becoming the beautiful beings God intended. Becoming more alive every day.
In this day of designer religions, some familiarity with the Jesuit teachings could help one form a firm foundation for a personal spirituality. Jesuits are known for their intellectual and educational contributions to society, appreciation for the spiritual benefits that can be attained from everyday work done well, and a focus on working from the inside out - conversion begins from within the human heart.
Conversion in this sense in no way means conversion to a particular religion or belief system...only that we are changed to have a softer heart, a more compassionate attitude, both for ourselves (this comes first) and then for our fellow travelers.
