The Examen Videos
The Examen
adapted from a version by Dennis Hamm, S.J.
First, I begin by putting myself in the presence of God. Create a quiet, prayerful space.
- I breathe in the love of God that surrounds me. I become aware of God’s presence.
- I thank God for accompanying me on my spiritual journey, for allowing me to know God more deeply.
- I thank God for being present to me, even when I do not recognize God’s presence.
Second, I ask God for what I seek or desire.
- I ask God for the guidance of the Spirit to assist me to get in touch with what has been happening in me and around me this day.
- I ask you, God, for the ability to recognize how the Spirit has been leading me through the eventful happenings in the day.
Then I reflect back on my experience of the day.
- I review the thoughts, feelings, events which were most striking or intense for me, whether pleasing or painful, good or bad, clear or confusing.
I choose one thought or feeling that I remember best or is the most powerful for me.
- I stay with that thought or feeling.
- What interior movements or feelings did I experience as the moment unfolded?
- I pray over whatever feelings arise in me, whether it be gratitude, praise, petition, healing, patience, joy, sadness, hope.
I ask God to reveal God’s will to me regarding the next 24 hours.
- I ask God to help me and others to promote God’s will.
- I ponder the significant thoughts and feelings that arise as I consider the tasks, meetings, persons, decisions, challenges, enjoyments that are likely to be part of my life during the next 24 hours.
- I choose one thought or feeling that grabs my attention or deeply moves me emotionally.
- I pray over whatever arises within me, whether it be fear, anticipation, gladness, self-doubt, reluctance, procrastination, confusion, worry, self-confidence, excitement.
I end my Examen today by thanking God for daily helping me to grow in goodness and love.
- Thank you, God, for allowing me to become aware of what gives me life and what does not; for allowing me to find you in all things; for allowing me to love you and trust you more deeply. Amen.