History
St. Ignatius was a soldier for Spain, but he was very badly
wounded and had several operations. While he was recovering, he read a book
about saints, and realized he wanted to live the way they did. At first, he
would pray seven hours a day, and he had holy visions. Then he went through a
very hard time that left him very sad and doubtful. He used what he learned
from these trials to write “Spiritual Exercises,” which has helped many, many
Christians ever since.
Activity
Saint Ignatius prayed for
seven hours a day, because he was living a monastic life. Laypeople usually
can’t take the time to pray like that, but for families that are on summer
vacation, you can pause every hour for just a few minutes to say a prayer
together following what Saint Ignatius taught people in his “Spiritual
Exercises.” For families with parents who work outside the home, you can do
these all at once in less than half an hour.
Family Devotions based on Saint Ignatius’ “Spiritual Exercises”
Prayer #1: Lord, we thank
you for your perfect, unconditional love. Help us to always stay close to you,
and help us give you everything we have and everything we are, so that you are
glorified in all ways. Amen.
Prayer #2: Lord, everybody in the world needs to be
rescued from sin. Please help us! Heal us from fear, guilt, and other wounds
that come from our sins. Help us flee from sin and trust you to lead us in the
way of truth and light. Amen.
Prayer #3: Lord, sometimes
when we sin, it’s hard to know that we are totally forgiven. Please help us
trust Your gift of salvation. Amen.
Prayer #4: Lord, help us hear
Your call to follow You. We want to be your disciples and do the work You have
given us to do. Help us hear Your “still, small voice” and help us always be
ready, willing and brave enough to follow. Amen.
Prayer #5: Lord, every day, we
have the choice to follow You. Help us to reject what is evil, like greed, fame
and pride. Help us dedicate our lives to serving You. Amen.
Prayer #6: Lord, give us
strength to carry out the what You ask us to do – to tell people about Your
great compassion and to help them see their need for Your salvation. Amen.
Prayer #7: Lord, we want to
live in your love and your joy. Help us see the reality of your deep love and
everlasting mercy. Amen.
Saint Ignatius Loyola, pray for us!
More reading for parents:
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