THE SPIRITUAL EXERCISES

“By the term spiritual exercises we mean every method of examination of conscience, of meditation, of contemplation, of vocal and mental prayer, and of other spiritual activity […] (for) preparing and disposing our soul to free itself of all disordered affections (attachments), and after accomplishing this, of seeking and discovering the Divine will regarding the ordering of one’s life, thus insuring the salvation of one’s soul.” (The Spiritual Exercises, Annotation #1)

The spiritual exercises helps a person (retreatant) who does it in a full “30-day Retreat” or at least in a regular 8 Day, 6 Day or 3 Day retreat or in daily life to cultivate personal attentiveness, openness and responsiveness to God who is present and active in her/his immediate life world.

It helps a person come to a better clarity before making both ordinary and life changing decisions such as choosing a vocation (marriage, religious life or priesthood), a career, a job, a life style, investment of resources, a ministry, to relocate/migrate, to accept or reject an office or position, etc.