Using the Daily Examen

We all wonder how, or even if, God is present in our lives, other than those times when we are specifically involved in religious or church activities. Everyday things like attending a meeting at work, loading the dishwasher, or commuting on crowded roads certainly don't feel spiritual.

The Examen is a tool designed by Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, to build a spiritual awareness by reflecting on what has happened during the day.  In fact, he thought doing the examen was so important, he required the members of the Society of Jesus to use the examen twice a day: at Noon, and before going to bed at night. 

Rev. Adam Thomas wrote a description how he used a form called the Awareness’ Examen in Encountering the Examen.  The five steps or questions that he considers and writes about in his journal are: Be mindful, Be thankful, Be Humble, Be reflective, Be responsive.

If you want to use the examen, you can simply spend a minute for each step:

1. Open yourself to be aware of God's presence
2. Give thanks for what happened during the day
3. Remember and review the day, noting both the good and the bad
4. Select one event and pray about it
5. Respond to what you have experienced

There are many resources that describe the Examen and provide different versions of the steps on the web.  If you are still looking for something to explore during the remaining days and weeks of Lent, consider this unique form of prayer.

Bruce Calvin