In this week’s episode of the Transformation Intensive podcast, Ned Arnold gives a detailed explanation of Rule Number Three of discernment, which addresses consolation and the fruits of the Spirit. Valerie McIntyre introduces Week 11, which focuses on contemplating the Incarnation and Nativity of Jesus Christ. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on familiar biblical stories to gain a deeper, more personal knowledge of Jesus. The episode offers tips on using images and imagination to enhance prayer and meditation. Practical advice on creative and imaginative prayer, supported by visual art, poetry, and even family activities, is given to help participants more fully engage with the exercises. The episode concludes with a guided prayer session using Rublev’s famous Trinity icon.

00:00 Introduction to Transformation Intensive

00:34 Entering the Second Movement: Week 11

01:40 The Power of Images in Prayer

04:29 Understanding Consolation

09:04 Prayer Exercises for the Week

10:04 The Role of Imagination in Ignatian Spirituality

17:38 Tips for Creative Prayer

22:27 Daydreaming and Background Prayer

29:35 Guided Prayer Exercise with Icons

40:53 Closing Prayer and Blessing

Music by Austin Sebek, "Something" www.worshipstart.com/royaltyfreemusic

In this episode of the Transformation Intensive Podcast, Ann Gemmel delves into the Ignatian Rules of Discernment, particularly Rules 1 and 2, explaining how these principles help in guiding spiritual movements toward or away from God. Emphasizing the concepts of consolation and desolation, Ann encourages listeners to practice discernment in everyday decisions. Valerie McIntyre introduces The Call of the King, Part 2 and reflects Ignatius of Loyola's journey of responding to God's call through four stages Cannonball Crisis, Uninformed Consent, Experimentation, and Mystical Confirmation.

00:00 Introduction to Transformation Intensive

00:27 Weekly Prayer Guides and Leadership

01:06 Tip of the Week: Butts in Chairs

02:25 Understanding Discernment of Spirits

04:45 Consolation and Desolation

07:51 Rules of Discernment

12:10 BAT Acronym for Discernment

16:59 Prayer of Examine and Reflection

21:02 God's Call and Personal Discernment

23:41 Ignatius's Life and Discernment Process

34:36 Final Thoughts and Closing Prayer

This episode of the Transformation Intensive podcast introduces Week 9, “The Call of the King” and marks the beginning of Movement Two in the Ignatian exercises. The discussion reflects on the first movement's focus on understanding one's identity in God as 'loved sinners' and transitions to responding to this identity. Key themes include gratitude, awe, fear of the Lord, and reflection on Psalm 95. The episode also covers Ignatius' symbolic surrender in Montserrat and the emotional resonance of pledging loyalty to Jesus, encouraging listeners to cultivate readiness to respond to God's call.

00:00 Introduction to Transformation Intensive

00:27 Reflecting on Movement One

01:47 Understanding Our Identity in God

04:14 Transition to Movement Two

05:14 The Call of the King

06:31 Psalm 95 Meditation

17:07 Practical Exercises and Resources

20:55 Ignatius's Journey and Commitment

30:30 Reflecting on Inspirational Leaders

37:58 Concluding Prayer and Reflection