Examen–Short Version

About this Prayer form:

This four-stage prayer is primarily an exercise in remembering. One is invited to reflect on experiences from the past 24 hours, practicing gratitude and response for the presence of God. Two versions of this prayer are available: a more detailed, guided version and a simpler, short version. Both can be practiced by individuals or groups.

Shorter Version:

Recognize the presence of God: Be still and know that you are with God.

Look at your day with gratitude: Acknowledge God in the big and small things of life.

Review your day:

When or where in the past 24 hours did you feel you were cooperating most fully with God’s action in your life? When were you resisting?

Ask yourself:

What habits and life patterns do I notice?

When did I feel most alive? Most drained of life?

When did I have the greatest sense of belonging? When did I feel most alone?

When did I give love? Where did I receive love?

When did I feel most fully myself? Least myself?

When did I feel most whole? Most fragmented?

Reconcile and Resolve

Seek forgiveness

Ask for direction

Share a concern

Express gratitude

Resolve to move forward