The Spiritual Exercises

The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola are a time-tested pathway for deepening one’s relationship with God, discerning life direction, and growing in spiritual freedom. At Loyola House, we offer the full Spiritual Exercises and adaptations that make this transformative journey accessible to seekers today.

What Are the Spiritual Exercises?

The Spiritual Exercises are a carefully structured retreat experience based on the prayer, meditation, and discernment practices developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola in the 16th century. Through a series of guided prayer periods, Scripture reflections, and spiritual conversations, retreatants are led into a deeper encounter with the living God.

The Exercises invite participants to:

• Encounter God’s unconditional love
• Reflect on their life story in the light of grace
• Walk with Jesus through his life, death, and resurrection
• Listen attentively for God’s invitations in their lives
• Commit to a life of loving service in the world

At its heart, the Spiritual Exercises are a school of discernment — learning to recognize the movements of the Spirit and to respond with greater freedom and love. This deep interior work leads many to new clarity about their purpose, relationships, and vocation.

Ways to Experience the Spiritual Exercises

At Loyola House, we offer several formats:

• 30-Day Retreat: A full, immersive experience of the Spiritual Exercises in an atmosphere of silence, prayer, and daily spiritual direction.
• 19th Annotation Retreat: The Spiritual Exercises adapted for daily life, spread over several months, allowing individuals to integrate prayer into their everyday routine with regular spiritual direction.
• Shorter Adaptations: Weekend or weeklong retreats offering an introduction to the dynamic movements of the Exercises.

Each retreat is accompanied by an experienced spiritual director who listens, guides, and supports you through your unique journey with God.

Who Are the Exercises For?

The Exercises are for anyone who desires a deeper relationship with God and is willing to engage in sustained prayer, reflection, and openness to transformation. They are suited to Christians of all traditions, as well as those in leadership, ministry, or at a crossroads in life.