The Ignatian method
The Ignatian method of reading scripture is an ancient prayerful practice that invites us all to enter the story. Developed by Ignatius of Loyola the process invites the reader to imagine themselves in the story, and as they do to allow God to be in control, to be open to the spirit to guide their imagination.
Brief Description:
Read through the story 4 times slowly, each time with different questions.
Time: 20-30 minutes
1st Reading
During the first reading listen to the story from the surface. Ask yourself
- Where does this take place?
- when does it take place?
- Who is in the story?
- What happens?
Give yourself 2-5 minutes of silence before you read the story again
2nd Reading
During the second reading listen for more information,
- What are the people doing?
- Who are the major characters?
- Who are the background characters?
- Who is named, who is not?
- How do the people interact?
- What is the setting of the story?
- How would you describe the mood?
Give yourself 2-5 minutes of silence before you read the story again
3rd Reading
During the third reading Pay attention to more detail and start to place yourself in the story
- Who are you, what are you in this story? (You can be a person, animal, stone, statue or even furniture…)
- What can you see, smell, hear?
- What are you thinking, feeling?
- What can you smell?
- What other details do you notice?
Give yourself 2-5 minutes of silence before you read the story again
4th Reading
The fourth and final reading Is a time of allowing your imagination to be free, experience the story as the object, person or animal you’ve connected with.
Sit with the story in silence for as long as you need, when you feel its time to finish thank God for opening the story to you and for today.
