Examen

Examen or otherwise known as “examination of consciousness” is an ancient Christian practice that provides a way of noticing God by recalling and discerning His voice and activity within the flow of the day. It seeks to examine our hearts and opens us up to deeper awareness of our God-given desires.

Examen is a time of coming into the presence of God to ask questions that help us open our attention to how God moves in our day-to-day lives. The questions help direct our attention to our mental state, our body responses, and our emotional baggage.

What are the steps to practice the ‘Examen’?

1. Spend some time in silence.

2. Reflect on the pairs of questions below: 

   • For what moment today am I most grateful? For what moment today am I least grateful?

   • When did I give and receive the most love today? When did I give and receive the least love today?

   • What was the most life-giving part of my day? What was the most life thwarting part of my day?

3. Write down your reflections in your journal.