Join us in praying a novena to St. Ignatius, ending on his feast day, July 31, 2021!

Day 3, July 25- Examen

Reflect: The examen is a familiar prayer and classic component of Ignatian spirituality. It is a form of prayer that allows us to become as Ignatius himself was, a contemplative in action. Ignatius leads us through this general examination of conscience at the beginning of the Spiritual Exercises. It involves first reflecting and giving thanks for all that God has given us and the graces received. Next, Ignatius invites us to ask for the grace to know of and turn from our sins. Thirdly, Ignatius invites us to ask God “for an account of [our souls]” in regard to our thoughts, words, and deeds throughout the day. This is followed by asking for pardon for these sins and failings and finally, “to resolve, with his grace, to amend them.” Consider spending a moment halfway through your day or at the end of your day in quiet examination of conscience. Give to the Lord what you don’t want to hold on to, following the lead of St. Ignatius.

Pray: The Suscipe

Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty,
my memory, my understanding, and my entire will,
All I have and call my own.
You have given all to me.
To you, Lord, I return it.
Everything is yours;
do with it what you will.
Give me only your love and your grace,
that is enough for me.