Eric Clayton is Associate Director of Public Affairs for the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. He manages the award-winning weekly column, Now Discern This, a series on Ignatian spirituality and everyday life, and produces video, audio, and other digital content to share the richness of Ignatian spirituality with general audiences. Eric is also the author of two books on Ignatian spirituality: My Life with the Jedi: The Spirituality of Star Wars and Cannonball Moments: Telling Your Story, Deepening Your Faith, both published by Loyola Press. A third book on Ignatian spirituality and peace is scheduled to be published by Brazos Press in 2025.
In addition to his books and weekly columns, Eric writes frequently for a variety of outlets, including National Catholic Reporter, Busted Halo, US Catholic, and America Magazine, on topics ranging from pop culture and parenting to Star Wars and Disney Lego. He is a regular contributor to IgnatianSpirituality.com and the daily devotional book Give Us This Day. In addition to his spiritual writings, Eric has published works of fiction with Black Hare Press, Air and Nothingness Press, Small Wonders Magazine, and others. He is a sought-after speaker, retreat leader, and workshop facilitator.
Eric has been active in various religious organizations, including Catholic Relief Services, Maryknoll Lay Missionaries, and the Sisters of Bon Secours, and was an adjunct professor in the Department of Mass Communications at Towson University.
Eric holds a BA in Creative Writing and International Studies from Fairfield University, an MA in International Media from American University, and a Graduate Certificate in the Ignatian Tradition from Creighton University. He lives in Towson, Maryland with his wife, two daughters, and cat.
To learn more about Eric, check out his personal website at ericclaytonwrites.com and subscribe to his Substack at ericclayton.substack.com.
