Examen

Overview

The Prayer of Examen is a form of prayer that was developed by Ignatius of Loyola in the 15^th Century. Saint Ignatius was the founder of the Jesuit order of priests (also known as the Society of Jesus). Ignatius named the Examen as the central exercise of Ignatian spirituality which is to help find God in all things.

Through the Examen we come to know God’s love for us more deeply, gradually becoming more aware of God’s presence in everything. The Examen provides a mirror which reflects God’s active presence in our everyday lives.

The Examen is explicitly taught in Year 6 Religion Curriculum P-12, Archdiocese of Brisbane, (CLPS17)

How to pray the Examen

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Teaching the Examen to young children

The picture story book I grow in Grandad's garden, by Brian Andrew can be used to teach the Examen to young children. In the picture story book, the 4 Stop Spots correspond to the stages of the Examen.

Also, the Examen Book: Exploring Every Day with God, by Paul Mitchell. See below for a video about this book.