Introduction
What are the Exercises
The Exercises as a Pathway
Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556), founder of the Jesuit order, developed his Spiritual Exercises so that people could grow in their relationship with God and learn to listen for the voice of the Spirit in their lives.
The Exercises have been offered as a pathway to God for over 500 years all over the globe!
Saint Ignatius’ motivation was to share his bursting love of God with the world so everyone could experience the generous, prodigious love of our Creator God.
We seekers receive graces during these Exercises which animate and energize our love for God and God’s people.
Like physical exercises at a gym, the Spiritual Exercises develop and strengthen our spiritual muscles!
SEEL Portland Testimonials
“My prayer life is deeper and richer because of SEEL. Through colloquy I have a meaningful and personal relationship with Jesus, as companion, friend, and Lord. We walk and talk. A lot. The examen calls me to reflect daily on where I found God during the day and to prayerfully evaluate my response.”
— Leo
“What I appreciate most about the Spiritual Exercises is that they are principles and practices that make me aware of God’s presence and God’s love, right here and right now in my ordinary life. I also sure appreciate the gentleness and freedom you invite us into at the beginning of each Saturday. It’s easier to hear God when you remind me (us) we have the freedom to focus on the words or thoughts that the Spirit is speaking to me (often, as it happens, through one of the poems) and not have to force a response to the rest. Thanks, and blessings to you!”
— Diane
“Through my experience with SEEL, I was able to feel God’s love for me — and for all of creation — in a visceral way. This deep sense of being loved took root in me, opening the way to a more personal relationship with Jesus. I continue to return to the Spiritual Exercises again and again, and they continue to bear fruit.”
— Jennifer