Methods of Prayer

Ignatian Contemplation

In his Spiritual Exercises, St. Ignatius Loyola introduces us to imaginative contemplation, a kind of prayer that can deepen our personal relationship with Christ, bring us to a more intimate knowledge of him, and so to a deeper love of him and a closer adherence to him. This is how Ignatius himself came to know and love and give himself to the Lord during his yearlong recuperation at Loyola. He read The Life of Christ by Ludolph of Saxony and followed the instructions of the author not just to read or to think about the Gospel stories, but to imagine them, visualize them, enter into them, and experience them firsthand as if he were there as a witness and participant. Click here to learn more.

Examen of Consciousness

The five step exercise comes from St. Ignatius of Loyola. It is a prayerful review with God of one’s past 24 hours. It can be done for 10-15 minutes in the middle of the day or at its end. It helps one recognize the influence of God’s Holy Spirit as opposed to all other spirits (pride, greed, selfishness, materialism). Click here to learn more.

Labyrinth

A labyrinth is an intricately designed pattern composed of a single circuitous path that leads to the center and back out again. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth offers no choices, no dead ends, no chance of becoming lost. Click here to learn more.

Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina is rooted in Scripture, the living Word of God. By reading the Word and reflecting upon it within one’s heart, God is able to begin the conversation. The process is simple and easy to learn. In addition to a Bible, you only need to bring your openness and desire to be challenged and transformed by God’s Word. Click here to learn more.