Ignatius’ EXAMEN is a prayer practice that helps us find God in all aspects of daily living. So powerful is this prayer practice that Ignatius required all Jesuits to practice the EXAMEN twice daily—at noon and at the end of the day. It’s simplicity makes it a daily habit not only for Jesuits but for many intentional disciples.

Like an athlete slows to study film to see mistakes in order to correct them, the EXAMEN provides a prayerful moment to recognize, with God’s help, where we missed the mark to help us be led by the Holy Spirit the next time.

1. Place yourself in God’s presence by giving thanks to God for benefits received.
2. Ask for the grace to know my sins and to rid them from me.
3. Recall specific moments throughout the day, hour by hour or period by period.
4. Ask pardon of God for my faults.
5. Resolve, with God’s grace. to amend my sins. Close with an Our Father.

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