Over 20 YAGs came together Feb 20th for the Lenten Walk. This day retreat began at 11am with introductions, lunch, and a talk on discernment by Fr. Joseph followed with discussion.
The Examen prayer is a Jesuit way of praying that helps us examine our exercises of faith in daily life. It is generally divided into 5 steps, and discussion of these steps formed the remainder of our day retreat. (For more info on the Examen prayer, see below or visit this website.) YAGs Stephanie, Ben, and Tony gave talks introducing various aspects of the Examen prayer. We spent half the day in Torrey Pines State Park enjoying the great weather and beautiful setting and spending time in discussion and reflection.
We came back to Roetter Hall for a closing Mass at 3:30pm with Fr. Joseph. It was a great way to end our day retreat and continue on our Lenten journey.
Thanks to all who could attend and participate! And a very special thanks to those that met throughout the past month to help plan the Lenten retreat or that volunteered to help lead a talk or prayer during the retreat - Jennie, Shannon, Edwin, Tony, Stephanie, Ben & Tara!
The Examen Prayer:
Transition: I become aware of the love with which God looks upon me as I begin this Examen
Step 1: Gratitude. I note the gifts that God's love has given me this day, and I give thanks to God for them.
Step 2: Petition. I ask God for an insight and a strength that will make this Examen a work of grace, fruitful beyond my human capacity alone.
Step 3: Review. With my God, I review the day. I look for the stirrings in my heart and the thoughts that God has given me this day. I look also for those that have not been of God. I review my choices in response to both, and throughout the day in general.
Where was God in all of this today?
Toward what was the Lord calling me in the day?
How did I respond to this call?
Were there inclinations and thoughts this day that were not of God?
If there were, was I able to discern and resist them?
Was the use of my freedom in accord with God's loving desire for me today?
Step 4: Forgiveness. I ask for the healing touch of the forgiving God who, with love and respect for me, removes my heart's burdens.
Step 5: Renewal. I look to the following day and, with God, plan concretely how to live it in accord with God's loving desire for my life.
Transition: Aware of God's presence with me, I prayerfully conclude the Examen.
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