Discernment Today
Ignatian discernment is much more than a spiritual practice; it is a path of personal transformation. Inspired and defined by the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, this method invites us to develop a deeper relationship with God, recognize his presence in our daily lives, and make wise decisions. The objective of this series, of 7 articles, is to make an introduction to the Spiritual Exercises of the Saint of Loyola, and to Spiritual Discernment, applying them to our daily lives.
The Spiritual Journey with Ignatius of Loyola
St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, experienced a profound conversion after a serious wound in battle. During his recovery, he found that thoughts about the world left him empty, while contemplation of God filled him with joy and peace. This experience led him to develop the Spiritual Exercises, a set of practices to strengthen the relationship with God and discern his will in our lives.
Ignatian discernment is a process of reflection and prayer that helps us differentiate between the movements of the soul that bring us closer to God and those that distance us from Him. The Examen is an essential daily prayer in Ignatian spirituality. It is a moment of pause in our day to recognize God’s action in our lives. It is a true path of hope.
The Practice of the Ignatian Examen
Tim Gallagher, O.V.M., reminds us of the steps St. Ignatius defined for the Examen:
1. Gratitude – Recognizing and giving thanks for God’s gifts.
2. Petition – Ask for the grace to understand our desires and choices.
3. Review of the day – Reflect on our daily experiences.
4. Forgiveness – Identify our faults and receive divine mercy.
5. Renewal – Plan the next day with an open heart to God.
Kevin O’Brien, SJ, proposes these five steps to make it:
1. Invite God to guide your prayer.
2. Be grateful for the meaningful moments of the day.
3. Reflect on how you felt in each situation.
4. Ask forgiveness for mistakes and accept God’s grace.
5. Look to the future with hope and confidence.
Discernment in Everyday Life
Ignatian discernment is not just for religious or priests. It’s a powerful tool for anyone who wants spiritual growth and to make decisions more clearly in the direction that moves his/her soul. It helps us identify our emotions, desires, and thoughts, discerning whether they lead us toward a fulfilling life in God or away from it.
Discernment, the Examen, and the Spiritual Exercises that will be shared in this series are applicable to the context of Jubilee 2025. Under the motto “Pilgrims of Hope”, the Holy Year is an opportunity to deepen our spiritual life. Pope Francis invites us to seek the plenary indulgence, a path of reconciliation and grace that renews us in faith. St. Ignatius of Loyola shows us a wonderful path to progress in our spiritual pilgrimage.
Following the Path of Hope
Ignatian discernment challenges us to look at our lives with a new perspective. It is a call to live with greater gratitude, faith, and trust in God. If we adopt this practice into our daily routine, we will discover that God speaks to us in every moment of our lives, even in the ordinary, and because of Him we are never alone.
How to begin today?
- Dedicate 10 minutes a day to the Examen.
- Find a quiet place to pray without distractions.
- Keep a spiritual journal to record your reflections.
- Trust the process: God will guide you through every step.
“Without fear or sorrow, His grace is sufficient for us!”
