Robert Marsh

Rev. Dr. Robert Marsh, SJ is an Associate Fellow in Ignatian Spirituality at Campion Hall, University of Oxford, where he engages in spiritual direction and writing on Ignatian spirituality when his health permits. A Jesuit priest since 1986, he holds advanced degrees in both Chemistry (DPhil from Oxford) and Theology (MDiv, STL, and STD from the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley).

• Education: BA and DPhil in Chemistry (Oxford), MDiv and STL/STD in Theology (Berkeley)
• Current Position: Associate Fellow in Ignatian Spirituality at Campion Hall, Oxford
• Health Status: Living with ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome since the early 2000s

Marsh's research centers on Ignatian spirituality, particularly the Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius Loyola and theological cosmology. His work explores how God interacts with individuals in prayer, emphasizing the importance of encountering God as a living presence rather than a projection of one's own thoughts. His influential 2004 article 'Looking at God Looking at You: Ignatius' Third Addition' examines this dynamic in depth.

His recent scholarly contributions span theological cosmology, Ignatian discernment practices, and reflections on spiritual direction. While his chronic illness limits his output, his work continues to influence Jesuit spirituality through articles in 'The Way' and his personal website 'All Things Seen and Unseen' (rmarsh.com).

• Key Research Areas: Ignatian Spirituality, Spiritual Exercises, Theological Cosmology
• Publication Venue: The Way (British Jesuits spirituality periodical)
• Online Presence: rmarsh.com ('All Things Seen and Unseen')

Marsh's personal experience with ME/CFS profoundly shapes his spiritual perspective. He has written extensively about post-exertional malaise (PEM) and how chronic illness intersects with spiritual practice. His reflections on preaching while managing ME symptoms offer unique insights into balancing vocational commitments with physical limitations.