What are the Spiritual Exercises?
The Ignatian Spiritual Exercises, developed by St. Ignatius Loyola, offer a structured approach to deepening one’s relationship with God. These exercises, rooted in Scripture and prayer, have been embraced by Christians of various traditions. They are divided into four themes: sin and God’s mercy, the life of Jesus, the passion of Jesus, and the resurrection – all in the light of God’s love.
The Spiritual Exercises offer a space to deepen one’s relationship with God. As individuals engage with Scripture, they move from head knowledge to heart understanding. This transformative experience fosters a deeper love for Jesus, a more intimate knowledge of Him, and a closer following of Him. The Exercises are not a lesson to complete, but a sacred journey with Christ.
At Sacred Spaced Ministry, we offer individual and group guidance through the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises. These exercises can be completed in various formats: a 30-day silent retreat, a nine-month journey integrated into daily life, or a hybrid approach combining both. During the nine-month journey, the frequency of spiritual direction sessions is weekly. The Ignatian Spiritual Exercises can be beneficial for both new believers and those who have been following Jesus for many years. If you’ve been engaged in spiritual direction for some time and desire a deeper spiritual experience, consider discussing the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises with your spiritual director.