An Outline of the Ignatian Examen (Examination of Conscience)
Note: This outline is based on Saint Ignatius of Loyola’s presentation of the Examen in his Spiritual Exercises (no. 43). The acronym GRACE comes from Fr. Joseph Koterski’s article “Strengthening Our Prayer Life” in the publication Magnificat (July 2018), but the words are slightly modified, and the descriptions are our own summary based upon Saint Ignatius’ work.
Upon beginning: I acknowledge God’s presence – the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – with me in this time of prayer, and then I take ten to fifteen minutes to reflect on the past day.
G - Step One: Gratitude. I call to mind the gifts that God’s love has given me this day, trying to be specific and giving thanks to God for each of them.
R - Step Two: Revelation. I ask God for wisdom and strength to make this examination a work of grace, fruitful beyond my human capacity. I ask him to reveal Himself and His will for me.
A - Step Three: Account of Actions and Attitudes. I review the past day. I examine the desires, thoughts, emotions, and attitudes that God has given me this day. I look also for those desires, thoughts, emotions, and attitudes that have not been of God. I review my choices in response to both, noting any patterns or trends. I then focus on one significant experience and ask the Lord, “What do you want to say to me about this?” I listen to Him. If I have an extended period of time, I might read some Scripture and ask, “Lord what do you want to say to me through this Scripture in relation to my experience and life?”
C - Step Four: Contrition. I express sorrow and ask for forgiveness from God. I receive his healing, and spend a moment imagining God holding me and just saying “I love you.”
E – Step Five: Effort. I look to the following day and plan specifically in one way how to live more closely in accord with God’s loving will for my life.
At the end: Aware of God’s presence – the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – within me, I prayerfully conclude the Examen with an Our Father.