There are two programs based upon the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola that have become very popular during the past several years: CHALLENGE/DESAFIO by Mark Link, SJ, and RETREAT IN THE REAL WORLD by Andy Alexander, SJ, Maureen McCann Waldron, and Larry Gillick, SJ. Here at Blessed Sacrament, we have been offering these programs for the past 3 years.

CHALLENGE/DESAFIO is a daily meditation program extending over 36 weeks. It is designed for those new to a regular prayer life. It invites the person praying to dedicate 10 minutes per day to an assigned exercise, to journal their reflection immediately afterwards, and to participate in a faith sharing group about the retreat. One can also make this program on their own.

RETREAT IN THE REAL WORLD is a daily reflection program extending over 34 weeks. It is designed for busy person and those with a regular prayer life and familiar with meditation and contemplation. It invites the person praying to spend time daily in prayer focusing on the background theme for the week and/or the suggested scripture passages. The person journals daily about their prayer and commits to making the Examination of Consciousness daily. They are encourged but not required to participate in faith sharing groups.

While one can begin CHALLENGE/DESAFIO or RETREAT IN THE REAL WORLD at any time, it is highly encouraged that one begin the program in the Fall as the themes of the program often parallel the themes of the Sunday Gospels and the liturgical seasons. This year’s suggested starting date is Sunday, September 18, 2011.

For more information, visit
Challenge

Desafio

Retreat in the Real World

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