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A Simple, Life-Changing Prayer: Discovering the Power of St. Ignatius Loyola's Examen
For most people most of the time, prayer is hard. It is especially difficult—not to mention unsatisfying—when people experience it as formal, dry, and repetitious. But what might happen if you discovered a simple prayer that changed all that? What if you discovered a prayer that changed you? In A Simple, Life-Changing Prayer, Jim Manney introduces Christians to a 500-year-old form of prayer that dramatically altered his perception of prayer and the way he prayed. The prayer is the examen, which St. Ignatius Loyola developed for the purpose of nurturing a reflective habit of mind that is constantly attuned to God’s presence. What makes the prayer so powerful is its capacity to dispel any notion that God is somewhere “up there,” detached from our day-to-day tasks and concerns. Instead, the examen leads us into a relationship with a God who desires to be personally caught up in the lives of those whom he created. By following five simple yet powerful steps for praying the examen, we can encounter the God who, as Scripture tells us, “is not far from each one of us”—the God whose presence in our lives can make all the difference in the world. Also available in Spanish! Una oración sencilla que cambia la vida
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 13, 2018
Having worked for and with Jesuits for years, I've long been familiar with the Examen...but this book presented it in a way that made it so much more accessible, interesting, and manageable. I loved it! Looking back over it and seeing how many things I underlined. Highly recommended.
January 1, 2023
Loved this short simple book about prayer. Glad it is the final book of 2022 for me. It might be the first book I read in 2023 (well, at least I will revisit to make notes for myself). Reading challenge accomplished!!! Hooray for 2022–Cheers to 2023!
December 31, 2020
I don't know why I didn't like it as much as Gallagher's books, maybe the author's style or maybe the content was a bit too introductory? But it did have a couple of answers to older questions, ideas that will surely stick with me for a while - these make it definitely worthwhile.
And I love the list of "recommended reading" at the end.
And I love the list of "recommended reading" at the end.
August 10, 2024
A quick and thorough guide through the Examen prayer! I loved how the author reviewed its history from Ignatius of Loyola to the prayer form’s all-encompassing, intensely reflective, yet flexible, nature.
August 8, 2017
This is a small little book, but it has the power to change your life, change your relationship with God.
The book is part on how to pray the Ignatian Examen. A spiritual practice developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola, it is a means of reviewing the day, giving thanks to God; to discover what needs to be reformed; and asks God's help.
It is an easy book to read, to comprehend, and be inspired by.
The book is part on how to pray the Ignatian Examen. A spiritual practice developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola, it is a means of reviewing the day, giving thanks to God; to discover what needs to be reformed; and asks God's help.
It is an easy book to read, to comprehend, and be inspired by.
October 24, 2019
My pastor and I were having lunch together back in March. I was complaining — well, not really complaining, just talking (because it's not an object of disappointment for me) — about my lack of a personal spiritual life. There was a time in my life when I really enjoyed private expressions of faith like prayer and Bible study. For sure, part of the reason that I lost the habit of solitary prayer was that prayer served as an outlet for a kind of morbid self-inspection that I wasn't feeling so much any more. My pastor recommended that I try to ease back into prayer with a non-customary format of prayer, and specifically recommended the Examen.
Logically, I knew the concept was simple and I could probably pick it up in 5 min, but nonetheless, I asked for him to recommend a resource, I ordered it from the bookstore, and I finally read it. So now here we are, seven months later. Solid book, a masterclass in concision and helpfulness. I'm sure Manney's exploration of the format of the Examen (which indeed isn't much more complex than the format ACTS, or Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) will be helpful for me in quieting my anxious thoughts about "not doing it right" and his brief words of encouragement will help counter my tendency to quit before I start.
Of course, a book on prayer is intrinsically one of the more useless objects in the universe, because prayer is so intensely personal that 99% of what happens or doesn't happen in regards to prayer is about the deepest levels of the self. The capacity of a book to budge that is minimal.
Logically, I knew the concept was simple and I could probably pick it up in 5 min, but nonetheless, I asked for him to recommend a resource, I ordered it from the bookstore, and I finally read it. So now here we are, seven months later. Solid book, a masterclass in concision and helpfulness. I'm sure Manney's exploration of the format of the Examen (which indeed isn't much more complex than the format ACTS, or Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) will be helpful for me in quieting my anxious thoughts about "not doing it right" and his brief words of encouragement will help counter my tendency to quit before I start.
Of course, a book on prayer is intrinsically one of the more useless objects in the universe, because prayer is so intensely personal that 99% of what happens or doesn't happen in regards to prayer is about the deepest levels of the self. The capacity of a book to budge that is minimal.
February 11, 2018
One of the best books I’ve read on prayer. It’s a wonderful resource on the examen
If you have an interest in learning more about the Examen I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Certainly one of the essential Christian disciplines for one wishing to grow in their faith. This quote nicely summarizes the purpose of the Examen:
“In fact, this is the goal of the daily examen. Our aim is to be sensitive to God all the time. The daily examen is a training exercise designed to cultivate a reflective habit of mind that makes us sensitive to God everywhere and at all times.”
Unfortunately the kindle version which I read has some bugs. I’d suggest giving the paper copy a try.
If you have an interest in learning more about the Examen I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Certainly one of the essential Christian disciplines for one wishing to grow in their faith. This quote nicely summarizes the purpose of the Examen:
“In fact, this is the goal of the daily examen. Our aim is to be sensitive to God all the time. The daily examen is a training exercise designed to cultivate a reflective habit of mind that makes us sensitive to God everywhere and at all times.”
Unfortunately the kindle version which I read has some bugs. I’d suggest giving the paper copy a try.
May 6, 2014
This little book is a wonderful introduction to how and why to pray the Examen. This is unlike any other type of prayer I've been taught and I find it extremely helpful. This is my second time reading the book, and I'm sure it won't be the last! Re-reading this helps keep my prayer fresh and ensures that I don't get too sloppy with what I'm doing.
August 17, 2016
Even the act of reading this book feels itself like a prayer.
November 16, 2019
After reading The Story of Christianity: An Illustrated History of 2000 Years of the Christian Faith last month, which was my (splendid, readable, and gorgeously illustrated) introduction to the expansive history of the Christian church, I became a lot more interested in Benedict, Francis, and Ignatius. And then, reading through You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit, Smith briefly mentioned the "Daily Examen"–a prayer, or attitude, which can help you stay discerning.
Manney's book is excellent. As someone with next-to-no knowledge of Ignatius, Manney's guide is a good short book to a good, simple form of prayer. Manney is vulnerable and sincere. And he really lets Ignatius speak, especially at the end, which is when I felt like I came to know Ignatius the most: "a contemplative in action." It's a good little book, and I look forward to trying the Daily Examen in my own life.
Manney's book is excellent. As someone with next-to-no knowledge of Ignatius, Manney's guide is a good short book to a good, simple form of prayer. Manney is vulnerable and sincere. And he really lets Ignatius speak, especially at the end, which is when I felt like I came to know Ignatius the most: "a contemplative in action." It's a good little book, and I look forward to trying the Daily Examen in my own life.
March 16, 2024
Česky v překladu jako 'Modlitba, která mi změnila život'
Na chvíli jsem odložil odbornou pohybovou literaturu, protože se to nedalo číst a odskočil si k téhle jednohubce.
Meditace a zejména ponoření se do křesťanské mystiky, mě láká dlouho. Jen jsem nikdy nevěděl, kde je ten správný entry point. Zkoušel jsem denní modlitbu církve (pár měsíců), růženec (rok a kus), ale nějak to nebylo ono.
Přišlo mi to všechno strašně divně odtržené od toho, co normálně žiju.
A pak jsem našel Examen. Nejdřív jako aplikaci do telefonu, kde mi tleje už asi dva roky. Pak jsem si na něj vzpomněl u plánování priorit na letošní rok. Hned v lednu mi náhodný člověk na LinkedInu napsal, jestli Examen znám. Pak jsem o pár dní prošvihl super víkend ‘Úvod do Examenu’, který mě doteď mrzí.
A pak jsem našel tuhle knížku.
To vše se odehrálo zhruba v prvních dvou měsících tohohle roku, takže plán na zbytek je jasný. Tady mě totiž něco hodně volá.
A o čem, že je ta knížka? O tom, jak Examen funguje, jak byl stvořen, k čemu je. Že k týhle vnitřní praxi nepotřebujete ani kadidlo, ani vonný bylinky, ani léčivou muziku nebo nějaký šamany. Potřebujete sami sebe, svůj den a svoji pozornost.
Zjednodušeně by se dalo říct:
Nehledejte něco co už máte.
Na chvíli jsem odložil odbornou pohybovou literaturu, protože se to nedalo číst a odskočil si k téhle jednohubce.
Meditace a zejména ponoření se do křesťanské mystiky, mě láká dlouho. Jen jsem nikdy nevěděl, kde je ten správný entry point. Zkoušel jsem denní modlitbu církve (pár měsíců), růženec (rok a kus), ale nějak to nebylo ono.
Přišlo mi to všechno strašně divně odtržené od toho, co normálně žiju.
A pak jsem našel Examen. Nejdřív jako aplikaci do telefonu, kde mi tleje už asi dva roky. Pak jsem si na něj vzpomněl u plánování priorit na letošní rok. Hned v lednu mi náhodný člověk na LinkedInu napsal, jestli Examen znám. Pak jsem o pár dní prošvihl super víkend ‘Úvod do Examenu’, který mě doteď mrzí.
A pak jsem našel tuhle knížku.
To vše se odehrálo zhruba v prvních dvou měsících tohohle roku, takže plán na zbytek je jasný. Tady mě totiž něco hodně volá.
A o čem, že je ta knížka? O tom, jak Examen funguje, jak byl stvořen, k čemu je. Že k týhle vnitřní praxi nepotřebujete ani kadidlo, ani vonný bylinky, ani léčivou muziku nebo nějaký šamany. Potřebujete sami sebe, svůj den a svoji pozornost.
Zjednodušeně by se dalo říct:
Nehledejte něco co už máte.
August 14, 2018
There are many books available that detail the Examen prayer, or the examination of consciousness, as taught by Saint Ignatius.
This book is direct and straight to the point, which I like. It launches directly into desiring the method of the prayer and the benefits it brings to those who practice it.
The contents proceed through each of the five steps giving the authors perspective as well as quoting from the Saints original teachings as well as giving examples from the lives of practitioners.
This is an easy to read book and is aimed at the everyday person who might be interested in finding a way to develop a closer relationship with the Lord.
The descriptions and guidance are succinct and straightforward. I found that even before I finished the books I was gaining great value from thinking about what the author was saying.
If you are interested in finding out about the Examen method this book is a great place to start.
This book is direct and straight to the point, which I like. It launches directly into desiring the method of the prayer and the benefits it brings to those who practice it.
The contents proceed through each of the five steps giving the authors perspective as well as quoting from the Saints original teachings as well as giving examples from the lives of practitioners.
This is an easy to read book and is aimed at the everyday person who might be interested in finding a way to develop a closer relationship with the Lord.
The descriptions and guidance are succinct and straightforward. I found that even before I finished the books I was gaining great value from thinking about what the author was saying.
If you are interested in finding out about the Examen method this book is a great place to start.
February 28, 2020
I have received free copies from the publisher, given this book out, and people have appreciated it. It is close to being an excellent basic introduction to the Examen for the average Catholic who would like to learn more about a particular style of prayer.
The reason I’d rather not recommend it is that the author changes the steps of the Examen. He starts with praying for guidance - rather than gratitude - and then moves on to giving thanks to God - rather than praying for guidance.
I’m not going to judge what he find fruitful himself in prayer but this prayer has a 500 year history - why would I go around introducing people to the prayer in a way that is different from every other encounter with this prayer they are likely ever to have - in apps, other books and resources, on retreats, with spiritual directors, and so on?
It bugs me more than a little bit.
The reason I’d rather not recommend it is that the author changes the steps of the Examen. He starts with praying for guidance - rather than gratitude - and then moves on to giving thanks to God - rather than praying for guidance.
I’m not going to judge what he find fruitful himself in prayer but this prayer has a 500 year history - why would I go around introducing people to the prayer in a way that is different from every other encounter with this prayer they are likely ever to have - in apps, other books and resources, on retreats, with spiritual directors, and so on?
It bugs me more than a little bit.
February 18, 2021
I particularly liked the style of this book. Manney presents the examen as a flexible prayer form and gives non judgmental examples of the many ways this prayer can be adapted to suit the needs of a person for a season of life or personality type. I felt like I ended the book feeling more freedom around ways to explore and incorporate the examen in my prayer life.
While this book touches on the history of the examen, it’s much more practically oriented and therefore a great introduction for someone new to praying this way.
While this book touches on the history of the examen, it’s much more practically oriented and therefore a great introduction for someone new to praying this way.
October 28, 2023
Very good brief summary of a certain method of prayer which was created by St Ignatius of Loyola many hundreds of years ago.
I found and read this book on my own after a general suggestion from a friend in and attempt to understand prayer better as I know it is an Important part of many people’s lives-people of various faiths-and consider myself an utter failure at it.
The method makes a lot of sense and I recommend anyone in a similar situation to mine check out this book and have a go at it.
I found and read this book on my own after a general suggestion from a friend in and attempt to understand prayer better as I know it is an Important part of many people’s lives-people of various faiths-and consider myself an utter failure at it.
The method makes a lot of sense and I recommend anyone in a similar situation to mine check out this book and have a go at it.
February 14, 2025
Don't judge this book by it's cover (which could use a slight upgrade in design to put it mildly). Manney's book is exactly what its title claims, a simple, introduction to St. Ignatius's examen. In less than 100 pages, Manney explains what the examen is, writes about why its a beneficial approach to prayer, and then breaks down the prayer in its five parts. I found the book very approachable and Manney's vulnerability in his writing welcoming.
Anyone looking to begin praying the examen should start here.
Anyone looking to begin praying the examen should start here.
February 12, 2022
Read this for my seminary course. Really good stuff. I’m look forward to practicing it. Like the practicality of it and how it encourages us to do what works. Not as many rules. I also like that it calls out what we think vs what’s reality (about God, about our life). Focusing on reality is so good. There’s a reason God tells us not to worry about tomorrow. Giving thanks for everything. Ignatius view of gifts from God is also cool!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2020
Daję 4 gwiazdki na szynach 😉 Dobry "poradnik" dla zaczynających praktykę modlitwy ignacjańskim rachunkiem sumienia (z drobną zmianą wprowadzoną przez autora, który swoją drogą w duchu ignacjańskim zachęca do dostosowania rachunku do własnego "widzimisię" - tak żeby każdy skorzystał na nim jak najlepiej, a nie frustrował się sztywną formą). Sama praktyka rachunku ma w nas wykształcić nieustanne odczuwanie obecności Bożej 🙂 Jest tu parę cennych wskazówek/historii osobistych autora. Czasami lektura się ciągnęła, a pewne wątki powtarzały, stąd niższa ocena. Generalnie dobra pozycja dla zainteresowanych tematem, ale jak dla mnie do rozłożenia w czasie.
July 30, 2023
This book was actually quite good right up until the very, very last three pages, which were just notes. He made a note about using masculine pronouns for God. He uses "he" and "him" pronouns throughout but seems to basically apologize for this or see it as a shortcoming, as if you could use other pronouns. I think this is dumb. Otherwise the rest of the book was good.
December 1, 2017
I try to stay away from formulaic spiritual books. And thankfully, this book isn’t one of them. It is a gentle guide that dates back to the 1500’s. The book is based on a spiritual practice Ignatius Loyola set up to help lead others in their journey with the Creator. I found it to be fresh & free.
December 19, 2020
This book helped my recommitment to this form of praying
I like that it’s written using practical examples from his personal and profesional life. I was able to relate his examples to my own life. I am very grateful for this book.
I like that it’s written using practical examples from his personal and profesional life. I was able to relate his examples to my own life. I am very grateful for this book.
July 29, 2021
Love this book. Jim Manney provides an easy to understand outline of the Examen and give many great tips on how to apply it to daily life. Wonderful addition for those who have read Ignatius’ Spiritual Direction.
October 12, 2024
This was quite revolutionary
It's interesting you don't have to follow this Verbatim. The pattern however is an excellent way to pray And you can do it anytime anywhere1 of the better book1 of the better books 11 of the better books I've read in a very long time
It's interesting you don't have to follow this Verbatim. The pattern however is an excellent way to pray And you can do it anytime anywhere1 of the better book1 of the better books 11 of the better books I've read in a very long time
March 30, 2025
A straightforward explanation and guide to St Ignatius Loyola’s Examen Prayer. This books clearly describes the steps in the examen prayer and gives helpful guidance in navigating each step. Quick easy read.
June 25, 2017
Helpful. I liked it. Just do it.
September 18, 2017
Direct and easy to understand
There are many ways to pray the Examen. In this book, Manney gives one way that is direct and easy for the novice to apply.
There are many ways to pray the Examen. In this book, Manney gives one way that is direct and easy for the novice to apply.
November 1, 2017
Delightful read!
February 8, 2018
Great great stuff....Wonderful strategy to continually ask yourself 2 questions...1) What is my role in all conflicts and troubles in my life 2) What would God have me do
July 17, 2018
A good shorter read on the Ignatian examen. Lots of practical examples and tips. I took some good notes on how to employ this daily.
October 28, 2020
This prayer, full of freedom and simplicity, is pure gift to end a day or start a day with Jesus. It’s like having a conversation with a friend.; a friend who knows you and still loves you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews