What are the Exercises?

The Ignatian Exercises is a 500-year old journey written by Ignatius of Loyola, a well-known spiritual director. Ignatius designed the Exercises to help one discern and live out their true vocation. It is often beneficial during times of transition, when one desires to clarify their vocation, or when one simply wants to go deeper into the living waters of God’s love.

What is involved?

With this journey, there is weekly accompaniment with an Ignatian spiritual director, as well as a daily practice with key meditations and Ignatian ways of praying (which include Ignatian Contemplation of the Gospels, immersing in the Love of God, the life (from Incarnation through the ministry) of Jesus, to accompanying Jesus as a close friend in his death and resurrection). It is a sacred and beautiful path that will lead to a deeper love of God and a truer offering of yourself, rooted in your deepest God-given desires. Your director will guide you in this journey with all of its practices. Most Ignatian Directors meet with you weekly, and you will have a daily practice.

When is the right time to take the Exercises?

There is a commitment to these Exercises, so you want to do it when the time is right for you. Consider your time, life situation and resources, but also pay attention to your desire to go deeper with God if you want to make the Exercises. This is a key feature of Ignatian discernment—paying attention to your deepest, God-given desires. One of our Ignatian Directors can help you discern if this is a good time and a fit for you.

How long does it take?

19th Annotation: 9 months
18th Annotation: 10 weeks

The 19th annotation is a version that was designed for people with “normal lives.” It typically takes about 9 months, meeting with an Ignatian-trained director weekly and engaging in daily practice. This option typically begins in the autumn in line with the church calendar, so that your meditations and contemplations align with Advent and Lent. Some Ignatian Directors are willing to accompany you at a different time. There is also an 18th annotation. This is an abbreviated version of the full Exercises. It lasts for 10 weeks and there is a weekly meeting with an ignatian- trained director as well as a daily practice. This option can be planned with your schedule and the schedule of your Ignatian Director.