In the excerpt from “Spiritual Exercises”, the author, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, describes a set of
meditations, contemplations and prayers that aim to provide several insights about the human
spirituality and what the human person owes to god. Ignatius examines how to attain the love
of god through two main points, the first being that the love of god ought to be manifested
through actions not words and the second being that love dwells in the mutual sharing of
goods. He then proceeds to divide the prayer into four main basic points. The first point
suggests that we reflect on how much we owe to good, recall how much we have received from
him and then reflect upon how can we offer ourselves to him. The second point talks about
reflecting on how god lives in all creatures, from giving elements existence and plants and
animals life, to the gift of understanding he gave to all human beings. The third point refers to
how god labors for all of us and all the creatures in the world. Lastly, the fourth point indicates
that we consider all of the blessings and grace we have received from the lord and ultimately
reflect on the previously mentioned four points. Moreover, Ignatius then proceeds to provide
the Three Methods of Prayer. The First Method emphasizes on the Ten Commandments, the
Seven Capital Sins, the three powers of the soul and the five senses. The purpose of the First
method is to prepare the soul to be acceptable to god. The Second Method consists of finding
meaning to every word of the prayer, which is then followed by 3 mains rules. Ultimately, the
Third Method of prayer is the rhythm of recitation of the prayer, which is also followed by two
other rules. Through this methods Ignatius intends to help others discern the will of god in their
lives and also strengthen their commitment to him.
This reading connects to the course because of its focus on how can we maintain our spiritual
health through our faith and love for god. The excerpt from “Spiritual Exercises” by Ignatius
illustrates how through a specific method of prayers we can express our infinite gratitude for
the gifts and blessings God has provided us, as well as stating that our aspiration in life if to be
with God forever. Ignatius makes a connection between our faith and love of god in the Second
Prelude of the excerpt, in which he says “This is to ask for what I desire. Here it will be to ask for
an intimate knowledge of the many blessings received, that filled with gratitude for all, I may in