Script for Ignatian Meditation

Script for Leading Ignatian Meditation

Say:

To begin this meditation, assume the posture, stillness and silence of meditation. Place your feet firmly on the floor. Find a comfortable posture which will help you to be still and silent for up to ten minutes. Close your eyes. Begin to slow your breathing- in through your nose and out through pursed lips. Focus on that breath, putting aside all other thoughts. Do this for a few minutes, asking the Spirit of Jesus to speak to you in your heart. (Pause to allow stillness and silence.)

I will read this (parable; story, part of a letter; psalm; law or rule; saying; prophetic utterance etc.) from (Jesus, St Paul, the Psalmist, the prophet….. etc.). As you listen, imagine you are in the story ... imagine you are watching and listening. Listen to what is being said and listen for something that strikes you- as interesting; or challenging; or puzzles you; or angers you; or makes you happy/sad/ curious/worried.

(Read Scripture text, e.g. Luke 8:22-25 NRSVCE - Jesus Calms a Storm)

Now imagine….. (the person) stops speaking and gets up and moves a little away from you. Think about what you heard and felt when the words were spoken to you. You have the opportunity to go up to the person alone. What would you say to them/ask them about what you heard? What might they say to you in answer?

Sit with your questions and possible answers, exploring what they might say to you about your faith or what you might need to do.

Now take a large, cleansing breath and return to the present and open your eyes.

For the next five minutes, you may like to journal your feelings or thoughts as a result of this experience. This journaling might include a prayer to The Spirit of Jesus to give you strength to live the life he asks of you.

Other Resources

Ignatian 3 minute Retreat