Introduce friends to the Examen or try a new approach to the prayer with a daily Examen journal—printable and foldable as a booklet. The booklet can be downloaded from the Catechist’s Journey blog. The prayer steps in the journal are as described by Mark E. Thibodeaux, SJ, in Reimagining the Ignatian Examen.
In addition to following the steps day by day as one learns the prayer, keeping a journal of prayer time can be a fruitful practice as one grows deeper in a relationship with God.
Have you journaled as part of your Examen practice? Tell us about it in the comments.
I am a firm believer in the Power of Prayer. The Triune God is my friend and confidante, but this past week I am having a great deal of trouble finding an answer to the goings on in The Ukraine. I am a second generation descendant of Czechoslovakia grandparents and a third generation descendant of Polish grandparents. When visiting The Czech Republic and Northern and Southern Poland, I was amazed at the helpfulness and friendliness of the Eastern European residents. We when stopped in St. Petersburg, Russia — no problem. please pray that the innocent people, including the Russian soldiers AND Ukrainian citizens feel God’s love and support.
I have been journaling my examen for almost two years. I use an online program “DAYONE” and found it most beneficial. My mind wonders too much when I just do it in my head. Journaling helps me focus and I have a record, although I confess, I do not go back and reread my entries very often. Thank you for your website
That is a good idea! I am gonna try it!
I also journal my prayer and hymn time. For me, I find the writing out — articulating — my prayer situation helps me in my daily walk with God. Having someone I love and trust look over my shoulder as I stumble along feeds my heart and soul. I know the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) are there. I want to use the Examen Prayer for twenty minutes or so in my daily walk. And I look forward to suggestions from others in attempting to do this. AMEN.