Can One Do St. Ignatius' Examen and Spiritual Exercises While in Mortal Sin?

Engaging in spiritual life, such as the Examen of St. Ignatius and the Spiritual Exercises, is a noble pursuit, no matter one's current state of grace. However, it is important to understand the implications of being in a state of mortal sin and how one can work towards spiritual advancement and reconciliation.

Praying for God’s Grace is Paramount

In any state, whether in or out of mortality, praying for God's grace is essential. Prayer is the key to building a spiritual life. However, if one is in the state of mortal sin, it is more challenging to make meaningful spiritual progress. The state of mortal sin presents unique challenges, including inner turmoil and external devils working to discourage one from committing to the sacrament of Reconciliation.

Nonetheless, practicing spiritual exercises can help one regain the graces necessary for sacramental Reconciliation. Praying for God's grace and understanding the challenges one faces are necessary for spiritual progression in these circumstances.

Why Seek Reconciliation?

The awareness of having committed mortal sin, often accompanied by a desire to engage in spiritual exercises, signifies a readiness to seek forgiveness and healing from God. Engaging in these practices while in a state of mortal sin shows a commitment to spiritual growth and a sincere desire to rectify one's actions. St. Ignatius believed that the spiritual exercises connected the individual to the divine via the Holy Spirit.

St. Ignatius' Encouragement

“Looking back on the day in the company of the Holy Spirit seems like as good an exercise as any, and probably better than most.” — St. Ignatius

St. Ignatius, a Jesuit, often encouraged the use of the Examen as a means to connect with the divine. He believed that this practice, when done in the presence of God and the Holy Spirit, was an excellent spiritual exercise. The Examen involves reviewing one's day with an openness to the divine, seeking forgiveness for sins, and seeking God's guidance for the future.

Praying with Jesus Christ

The practice of the St. Ignatius Examen involves having conversations with Jesus Christ, much like how one would with a friend. This practice allows one to reflect on their spiritual journey, seek forgiveness, and gain insight from God. Section four of the Examen provides an avenue for repentance, while section five encourages seeking God's guidance and protection.

Immediate Steps Towards Reconciliation

One of the most crucial steps in this spiritual journey is acknowledging one's sin and seeking forgiveness from God. Upon realization of a mortal sin, an individual should confess it with a sincere and contrite heart. Offering full forgiveness to God and seeking His guidance is essential before any reconciliation can take place.

Beginning the Examen

In terms of engaging the Examen and Spiritual Exercises, it is recommended that one begins by owning their sin before God and seeking His forgiveness. This step helps in preparing one for eventual reconciliation. “If done with a sincere and contrite spirit, is as much as one can do.”

After acknowledging one's sin, the next step should be to seek out sacramental confession as soon as possible. “The next action of course at your earliest opportunity seek out the Sacrament of Confession. That is your num 1 priority. Get the mortal sin absolved.”

Seeing the need for urgent reconciliation and the fear of dying in a state of mortal sin underscores the importance of this step. Dying in such a state is the worst outcome possible for one's soul. Hence, seeking the Christ instituted Sacrament of Confession (Jn 20:23) is imperative.

Closing with Peace and Goodness

Thank you for your question. Engaging in the Examen and Spiritual Exercises while in the state of mortal sin is a sign of your commitment to spiritual growth. Through prayer, repentance, and seeking reconciliation, you can find peace and goodness in your journey.