Individual Spiritual Exercises - 19th Annotation

19th Annotation - Full Spiritual Exercises in Daily Life

The Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius of Loyola  are a creative and flexible programme of prayer and reflection centred on the life of Christ. The method for this retreat in daily life is described in the opening paragraphs of the Exercises, note number 19 – so it is often referred to as a “19th Annotation” retreat. People from very different backgrounds or Christian traditions have found benefit in making the Spiritual Exercises. Many see it as an opportunity to deepen their relationship with God. Others may make the exercises because they wish to make an important decision about the direction in their lives. Others still come to Spiritual Exercises for less clear reasons, they just feel drawn to make them.

Doing the Spiritual Exercises

To get the most from the Spiritual Exercises you need: 

• An openness to spiritual growth and personal transformation. 

• A desire to deepen your prayer. 

• A desire to draw closer to Jesus. 

• You need to be able to pray for 30 minutes to one hour each day using materials provided by the person accompanying you. 

Doing the Spiritual Exercises as an Individual

As a participant in the Exercises, you commit to pray and reflect for a certain amount of time each day and meet regularly with your Spiritual Companion. These meetings usually take place once a week, at a time convenient to the retreatant and their companion over a period of between 7 to 12 months. The retreatant shares with their Spiritual Companion their experiences of the Exercises over the past week.   Your Spiritual Companion will offer material for the coming weeks Exercises.

Spiritual Companion accompanying you 

Spiritual Accompaniment, is an essential component of the Exercises. Through conversation with a spiritual companion in an atmosphere of trust, you are helped to arrive at a deeper awareness of the presence and movement of God in your everyday life.  As you share your dreams, struggles, triumphs and fears, you open up to the deepest and wisest source of freedom and joy. 

A spiritual companion helps you notice, savour and respond to the movement of God in your ordinary life. The companion is a listening and supportive person who creates an environment where you can look honestly at your relationship with God.

Suggested Donation

CHF 595. However, do not let the price deter you from doing the Exercises.  Bursaries are available.

Registration

To start the Spiritual Exercises please complete the  Application Form.  An interview will then be arranged.