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Reflection and Journaling

8. The Examen

The Examen of Ignatian Spirituality can provide a good framework for reflection. 

See https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen (link will open in a new window if you are viewing this online)

A version of the Examen might look like this  –

  • ‘Look Back’: Look back over the week with God in mind.  Where have I seen God at work?
  • ‘Look through’: Make connections with what has happened.  What is ‘of God’?  Do patterns emerge?
  • ‘Look forward’: What ideas or challenges come out of my reflection?  What do I need to work on?  Is there anything I should do differently?
  • ‘Look around’: What are the implications for those around me – my family, friends, or the wider community?  How can I learn from them?

(adapted from Bryn Hughes – Discipling, Coaching and Mentoring, Kingsway 2003, p. 153ff)