The Spiritual Exercises in Daily Life | Saint Thomas More Community Church

The Spiritual Exercises Retreat in Daily Life

9-MONTH RETREAT BEGINNING MID-SEPTEMBER

WHAT ARE THE SPIRITUAL EXERCISES?

The Spiritual Exercises are a compilation of meditations and reflections developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola to help one deepen one's relationship with God. The Spiritual Exercises are structured in four distinct weeks, with a clear framework that carries the retreatant through a series of contemplative practices. Ignatius wrote that the purpose of the Exercises is to conquer one's self and learn to regulate one’s life in such a way that no decision is made under the influence of any inordinate attachment. He wanted individuals to undertake these exercises with the assistance of an experienced spiritual director who would help them shape the retreat and understand what they were experiencing.

WHAT IS A RETREAT "IN DAILY LIFE?"

Traditionally, the Spiritual Exercises are experienced by going away to a retreat center for 30 days of prayer and meditation in silence. Our retreats "in daily life" are designed for people who cannot be away for 30 days as they were originally practiced. These retreats will allow you to experience the Exercises with an Ignatian-trained spiritual guide over the course of nine months. These retreats are a wonderful way to intentionally grow closer to God, strengthen your prayer life, and enrich your spirit.

WHAT DO RETREATANTS COMMIT TO?

This is an in-depth prayer experience which requires a significant commitment on the part of the retreatant. If you decide to make the retreat, you will need to commit to daily prayer practices, readings, and/or meditations. In addition to daily prayer, you will commit to attend periodic meetings led by your spiritual director to share your prayer experience and ask questions.

Small Group Option (18th Annotation):

This option includes small group meetings led by a spiritual director every other week. You may choose from three small groups: Tuesday mornings from 9-10:30 am, Tuesday afternoons from 1-2:30 pm (beginning September 13), or a virtual option Thursday evenings from 7-8:30 pm (beginning September 15). In-person groups will take place in the parish center.

Individual Option (19th Annotation):

This option includes weekly one-on-one meetings with a spiritual director. It is recommended that this retreat be made after having completed the 18th annotation retreat or other Ignatian retreat experiences. If you sign up for this option, we will contact you to arrange a first meeting.

QUESTIONS?

Please contact Carol Arend, Adult Faith Formation Coordinator, at carend@morecommunity.org or call the parish office.

SUPPORT THIS MINISTRY

There is no set fee to participate in this retreat. If you would like to support this effort so that we can continue to offer enriching faith formation opportunities like this one, please consider making a donation to our Adult Faith Formation ministry. You may donate online or mail a check to the parish office. We are extremely grateful for your support!

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