The daily examen is a spiritual practice derived from the writings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus. A Basque nobleman, Ignatius underwent a series of religious conversions as a young man following a wound sustained in the Battle of Pamplona in 1521. His Spiritual Exercises were first published in 1548 and form the basis of what is known today as “Ignatian spirituality.”

Many different versions of the examen have been developed over the centuries, but all are centered on the same five elements which themselves reflect Ignatius’ process of self-review and spiritual discernment.

In completing the daily examen, an individual places himself in the presence of God, prayerfully reflecting on the blessings of the day, the actions he took, and the invitation God has for his future decisions.

For more information on the examen and to find different variations of it, visit ignatianspirituality.com.

©LPi