An Ignatian resource to start the new year

A Reflective Review of the Past Year: An Ignatian Annual Examen
 

Find the full Annual Examen resource here as well as many other Jesuit resources to begin your new year.

The Examen is simply a set of introspective prompts for you to follow or adapt to your own character and spirit. Begin with a pause and a slow, deep breath or two; become aware that you are in the presence of the Holy.

As you review the past 12 months, from a year ago through to the present moment -

What am I especially grateful for this year?

An event that took place
Courage that I mustered
Love and support I received

I ask for the light to know God and to know myself as God sees me.

Where have I felt true joy this year?
What troubled me this year?
What has challenged me?
Where and when did I find an opportunity for renewal and pause?

Have I noticed God's presence in any of this?

In light of my review, what is my response to the God of my life?

As I look ahead, to the coming months what comes to mind?
With what spirit do I want to enter the next few months, the next year?

I ask for God's presence and grace, for this spirit, as I enter the next year

Amen

Adapted by Debra Mooney, Ph.D. from the Center for Mission and Identity at Xavier University's Daily Examen