Examen

The prayer of the Examen is a prayer to help us develop [links to guided examens below]:

  • a deeper relationship with God,
  • an attitude of gratefulness, an honesty about our values and behaviours,
  • an opportunity to reflect on our feelings, attitudes and relationships, a desire to make changes that lead us to living more fulfilling lives.

The Examen was the central prayer of St Ignatius’ life and he encouraged his companions to pray it twice daily – in the middle and again at the end of the day. It is a prayer inviting us to review our recent experiences and see where God has been present or apparently absent. The Examen is a reflective prayer: ensure you pause and think as you go through the steps.

Here are some guided Examens: