St. Ignatius of Loyola explains, “By the term “Spiritual Exercises” is meant every method of examination of conscience, of meditation, of contemplation, of vocal and mental prayer, and of other spiritual activities.”

“For just as taking a walk, journeying on foot, and running are bodily exercises, so we call Spiritual Exercises every way of preparing and disposing the soul to rid itself of all inordinate attachments, and, after their removal, of seeking and finding the will of God in the disposition of our life for the salvation of our soul.”

We invite you to first prayerfully read the Gospel passage, then watch the video, and finally go through Father VanHeusen’s spiritual exercise.

A Reading from John 14:15-21

Remember the basics… ask yourself, do I do the basics?

In this light, be careful not to equate spiritual flow with things being easy and pleasant. To move with the Holy Spirit, sometimes we have to go against the grain. Have there been any times in your life where going against the grain was important? Did you have the courage to meet resistance head on?

Realize this… savor this…. through the grace ordered in the sacraments, God is in you. Work to unleash that presence. Brainstorm – how you can unleash this in your life?

Spiritual Exercise