Saint Ignatius's work, Spiritual Exercises, was originally composed as a method of sharing his insights into the Christian life with others, but later evolved into the basis on which most retreats for priests, religious, and lay people were given (13). The themes laid out in Spiritual Exercises can still be effectively applied to both modern Christian and secular life.
             Saint Ignatius presents several spiritual exercises that seek to aid in the strengthening of an individual's spirituality. The term spiritual exercises includes examinations of consciousness, meditations, contemplations, vocal and mental prayers, and fasting; and are aimed at discovering what the individual deems important or desires in their life, and then purging all unnecessary worldly attachments. After this is completed, the exercises focus on seeking and discovering the divine will regarding the direction and character of one's life.
             The Exercises are divided into four weeks: the first week deals with the consideration and contemplation of sin; the second, the life of Jesus Christ through Palm Sunday; the third, the Passion of Christ; and the fourth with the resurrection and ascension of Jesus (38).
             The first week of exercises encourages the participant to purify his soul and put his life in order, and enables one to come into accordance with Christ through grateful love and surrender (14). This week is to be spent in apologetic sorrow, and penance should be observed by denial of bodily pleasures. One begins by asking God to help devote all of your thoughts and actions to his service and prayer. The participant is urged to reflect on the history of sin and its consequences, and realize the seriousness and malice of personal sin. The participant should consider how Christ died for his sin, and how God's mercy has sustained and saved him. The exercitant should also ponder what he has done and is doing for Ch
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