The “Spiritual Exercises” are a beloved program of spiritual growth created by St. Ignatius of Loyola, whose feast we celebrate today, July 31st. Being the gradual fruit of Ignatius’ own conversion and spiritual journey, the Exercises have for centuries proven a highly-effective spiritual boot camp for souls desiring to conform themselves to Christ.
St. Ignatius of Loyola, who went from being an earthly soldier to a heavenly one
The Exercises were originally designed as a 4-week retreat done under the guidance of a director. They are, however, adaptable to shorter time periods and to independent use.
Each week has a specific spiritual goal:
- To “reform the deformed”—we engage in intense self-reflection and evaluate what is holding us back from God
- To “conform the reformed”—we meditate on Christ’s life and ministry and discern how to be His disciples
- To “confirm the conformed”—as we consider Christ’s Passion and death, we become more united to Him in His suffering and deepen our love for Him
- To “transform the confirmed”—we meditate on Christ’s Resurrection and consider how to apply the lessons of the retreat to our lives and the world
Basically, the Exercises—through rigorous self-examination, regular meditation, resolutions, and other prayers and spiritual workouts—take us from a self-centered life characterized by our sins and ambitions to a Christ-centered life transformed by His love. It is truly a program for a spiritual soldier who’s ready to move beyond the ordinary into a life of spiritual excellence and dedicated service to Christ.
Ignatian spirituality can be impactful wherever you are in life! Although often practiced by those in religious life, his guidance is extremly applicable to those called to marriage. In Discernment of Spirits in Marriage – Ignatian Wisdom for Husbands and Wives, Fr. Gallagher aims to free you from discouragement and assist you in finding peace in your spiritual life and in your marriage. He will help you determine what is of God and what is not and will show you how the enemy works to discourage you in your daily spousal interactions in order to undermine both your spiritual growth and your marital bond. Order your copy today from The Catholic Company!
