The Trinity Examen for Catholic Women

Maria Cecilia Escobedo describes a daily spiritual practice to help women cultivate a spirit of gratitude, contrition, and intention for growth.

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy for women to prioritize everything and everyone else above their own well-being. Amidst juggling responsibilities at work, home, and within the community, it's crucial to carve out moments for self-reflection and spiritual nourishment. 

For Catholic women embarking on a wellness journey, the Trinity Examen offers a beautiful framework for daily introspection, forgiveness, and growth. 

Rooted in the rich tradition of Catholic spirituality, the Trinity Examen guides individuals through a reflective process, drawing upon the divine relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As women seeking holistic wellness, integrating this spiritual practice into our daily routines can foster a deeper connection with ourselves and with God. 

Turning to the Father: Gratitude for Blessings 

The first step of the Trinity Examen invites us to turn to the Father and express gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us throughout the day. In this moment of reflection, we pause to acknowledge and appreciate the gifts, big and small, that grace our lives.  

For Catholic women navigating the path to wellness, recognizing God's abundant blessings can shift our perspective and cultivate a heart of thankfulness. 

Each evening, take a few moments to reflect on your day and thank the Father for at least three things. These may include moments of joy, acts of kindness from others, opportunities for growth, or simply the gift of life itself. 

 Cultivating a habit of gratitude opens our hearts to receive God's love and grace, nurturing a spirit of contentment and peace within. 

Turning to the Son: Seeking Forgiveness 

The second step of the Trinity Examen calls us to turn to the Son and seek forgiveness for our failings. As imperfect beings, we inevitably fall short of our own standards and God's expectations. Acknowledging our shortcomings with humility and contrition is essential for spiritual growth and healing. 

Each night, take a moment to reflect on the day's events and identify at least two failings or areas where you may have fallen short. 

 It could be a harsh word spoken in haste, a missed opportunity to show compassion, or neglecting self-care. Bring these failings before the Son, asking for forgiveness and the grace to do better tomorrow. 

 Embracing a posture of repentance and reconciliation strengthens our relationship with God and empowers us to strive for holiness in our daily lives. 

Turning to the Spirit: Setting Intention for Growth 

The final step of the Trinity Examen invites us to turn to the Holy Spirit and set a concrete, measurable resolution for the next day. This step serves as a proactive commitment to growth and transformation, aligning our actions with God's will and purpose for our lives. 

Before retiring for the night, prayerfully discern one specific area of your life where you aspire to grow or improve. 

Whether it's prioritizing self-care, cultivating a spirit of patience, or deepening your prayer life, choose a resolution that resonates with your wellness journey. 

Then, formulate a practical plan of action to support your intention, incorporating specific steps and milestones to track your progress. The Trinity Examen offers a sacred space for reflection, forgiveness, and intention-setting. By turning to the Father in gratitude, the Son in repentance, and the Spirit in resolution, we invite God into every aspect of our lives, guiding us toward wholeness and holiness. 

Enhance your nightly routine by incorporating the Trinity Examen as a transformative practice. Print a copy of this powerful spiritual tool and embrace its guiding principles to foster growth in holiness on your wellness journey.  

Through intentional reflection, forgiveness, and resolution, allow the Trinity Examen to illuminate your path toward greater spiritual and personal well-being. 

Incorporating the Trinity Examen into our daily routines nurtures a deeper relationship with God and fosters holistic wellness in mind, body, and spirit. May this spiritual practice inspire and empower Catholic women on their journey toward abundant life and flourishing in Christ. 

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Copyright 2024 Maria Cecilia Escobedo
Images: Canva