The Prayer of Examen
What is the Prayer of Examen?
The Prayer of Examen is a spiritual practice rooted in the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola. It is a powerful method of prayerful reflection aimed at becoming more aware of God’s presence in our daily lives. This practice invites us into intentional, guided conversation with God about what God might be doing in and around us. It also helps cultivate a posture of gratitude in our lives.
Below is one way to engage in the Prayer of Examen. While this prayer is typically practiced at the end of the day, it can be done at any time. All you need is a quiet, comfortable place and about 15-20 minutes to spend in prayer with God.
If your mind wanders, don’t get discouraged or frustrated. Instead, simply tell God you’re distracted and refocus your attention. This practice, like a muscle, takes time to build and strengthen.
Prepare – Get comfortable. Close your eyes and take a few long, deep breaths. Ask the Lord to draw near and still your heart and mind.
Express thankfulness – Next, take a few minutes to tell God what you are thankful for. Consider using the following statements as a guide:
Thank you, Holy Spirit, for comforting me when …
Thank you, Father, for providing for my needs, such as …
Thank you, Jesus, for what happened earlier today/this week
Examine the day with God – Review with God specific moments from your day or week. Tell God about what you thought, felt, and did, and ask for the grace to understand what God might be doing in your life. Consider using the format below if you need more structure:
God, which of my thoughts from the day do you want to draw my attention to?
What feelings from the day do you want me to think about more deeply?
What did I do the day that you want me to focus on?
Reflect with God – As you reflect on what God showed you, tell the Lord when in these moments you felt nearest to God (moments of consolation) and when you felt furthest from God (moments of desolation).
Look Ahead with Hope – Tell God how you wish to collaborate with God tomorrow. What are you excited about? What are you nervous about? It can be helpful to choose one area you want to invite God more deeply into. Use the statements below as inspiration or guidance:
God, I want to invite you more deeply into my thoughts about …
Spirit, I want to invite you into my feelings of …
Jesus, I want to invite you into my actions, such as …
Conclude with Prayer – End with the Lord’s prayer:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven
Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins. as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation. but deliver us from evil
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.
