The word illuminism, comes from the Latin for light: lumen
When one talks to an illuminist, evidence contrary to the latter’s view has little or no effect on his conviction. Even if the evidence is objectively compelling, it does not penetrate his mind or will. This is natural illuminism.
On the supernatural level this disease shows itself in the conviction that “I have a special light from the Holy Spirit; you do not. Therefore, I am right and you are wrong.” I like to call this form of the aberration the privileged-pipeline-to-God idea. One can present to this person objective evidence from reason, Scripture, the teaching Church, brilliant theologians, and once again, no dent is made on the illuminist’s mind. The reaction is the same:”I know better; you are wrong.” It is clear that disagreements with an illuminist spouse, relative, friend, fellow worker or parishoner will go nowhere until humility enters the picture – and that requires conversion. Psychology may help somewhat, but it cannot bring about the inner transformation we are talking about in this volume.
An extract from the book Deep Conversion Deep Prayer by Fr. Thomas Dubay, S.M.
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