The Examen, also known as the Examination of Consciousness, was developed by Saint Ignatius of Loyola (AD 1491 – 1556) and is a foundational aspect of his Spiritual Exercises. The Examen is a prayer of awareness of God’s presence. Because prayer should not be laborious, it is recommended that you pray the Examen for no more than twenty minutes at each sitting, once or twice a day if you have the time.
The Examen provides a way for you to notice God’s presence throughout the day, and also the times you turned away when God showed up. It’s like looking through a rear view mirror as you review your day. The Examen is a prayer grounded in gratitude, helping you to be more aware of the guidance and graces showered upon you. If you practice this over a period of time, you will grow to become more aware of God’s presence. The depth and width of your gratitude also grows in parallel to this growing awareness.
At the same time, the Examen paves the way for greater self-awareness as you notice a pattern in the things that trigger you. This becomes an invitation towards healing.
There are two movements to the Examen, one in which you look back in time to trace God’s presence, and then look forward to anticipate where you might need God.
While there is a structure to the Examen, you are encouraged to be flexible. So if one aspect in the prayer (Review or Renewal) seems to occupy more of your attention, then just stay with that aspect. If one particular experience, positive or negative, seems to be demanding your attention, sit with that with God.
Here are the steps to the General Examen. There is also a Particular Examen, for specific circumstances.
May you grow ever closer to and be grateful for the God who is with you at every moment and who loves you unconditionally as you practice the Examen.
Transition
I become aware of God’s love as I begin this Examen.
Petition
I ask God to enlighten my heart and mind
so that I can become more aware of Him.
Step One:
GRATITUDE
I thank God for His gifts.
Step Two
REVIEW:
PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR EMOTIONS
What were the highlights of my day?
What were the lowest points of my day?
With God, I review my choices and responses to both.
Consider:
The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)
When did I encounter
LOVE • JOY • PEACE • PATIENCE • KINDNESS • GOODNESS
FAITHFULNESS • GENTLENESS • SELF-CONTROL
Step Three
GRATITUDE & FORGIVENESS
Highlights: I thank God for drawing close to me.
Lowest points: I ask for God’s forgiveness. I discern if reconciliation or
some follow-up is needed.
Step Four
RENEWAL
I look to the following day and pray for God’s guidance.
Transition
I prayerfully conclude the Examen.
You may wish to say the Lord’s prayer.
To help you understand the Examen better:
Photo credit: Erin Alder from Pixabay
