Saint Ignatius of Loyola’s Prayer Against Depression and Anxiety
Saint Ignatius of Loyola, a 16th-century Spanish priest and theologian, is renowned for founding the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and for his profound spiritual insights. Among his many contributions to Christian spirituality is a poignant prayer called the Examen. This prayer encapsulates a deep dive into our daily life. With this, Saint Ignatius also understands human emotions and how we need to depend on God for strength, especially when we are tempted to be discouraged by our depression and anxieties.
He sees that depressions and anxieties could be a sign of a lack of trust in God. That’s why he sites this prayer to ask God for help:
Saint Ignatius of Loyola's prayer against depression and anxiety O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of Your presence, Your love, and Your strength. Help us to have perfect trust in Your protecting love, and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us; for living close to You, we shall see Your hand, Your purpose, and Your will through all things. Amen
This prayer is a heartfelt plea for divine assistance during times of deep emotional and spiritual distress. It begins with an acknowledgment of the “darkness” that can envelop us, a metaphor for the despair and powerlessness often felt during episodes of depression and anxiety. Saint Ignatius then seeks the comforting presence of Christ, emphasizing the transformative power of divine love and strength.
The core of the prayer is a request for “perfect trust” in God’s protective love and power. This trust is presented as a remedy for fear and worry, suggesting that faith can provide a sense of stability and peace amidst turmoil. By living “close to You,” Ignatius implies that a relationship with Christ allows one to perceive God’s hand, purpose, and will in all aspects of life, offering a broader perspective that can alleviate feelings of anxiety and hopelessness.
Saint Ignatius’ prayer is not just a call for divine intervention but also a reflection on the importance of faith and trust in overcoming mental and emotional struggles. It is a reminder that in moments of weakness and darkness, turning to Christ can provide the strength and reassurance needed to navigate life’s challenges. For those battling depression and anxiety, this prayer serves as a beacon of hope and a source of spiritual solace, reaffirming the enduring belief in God’s unfailing presence and love.
