Spiritual exercises in Mayan code: a path of faith and reconciliation – Jesuits | Jesuit Provincial Conference of Latin America and the Caribbean

From November 15 to 24, 2024, the “Qajbal qij” spiritual exercise program was carried out, designed to offer a path of personal discernment through contemplative meditation, deep sentences and community reflection. The activity brought together young indigenous men and women from the native peoples Maya Mam y K’iche ‘ From Guatemala, who, guided by their spirituality and community commitment, participated in a transforming experience of self -knowledge and faith.

The experience began with the elaboration of a ceremonial altar, the Warab´alja-K´ulbil-Chemb´ildecorated with flowers, candles and corn, sacred symbols in the worldview Maya. This space not only marked the beginning of the activities, but also served as a spiritual meeting place. The first dynamics included sentences, a warm welcome and the exploration of the personal and spiritual autobiographies of the participants, promoting the connection with their stories and strengthening the sense of belonging to their culture and community.

Throughout the days, deeply significant issues were addressed. One of the first was the reflection on the life project, where attendees were invited to align their dreams and goals with God’s plan. The sessions emphasized the importance of developing positive personal attitudes and overcoming adversities with a spiritual perspective. Subsequently, the concept of sin was explored, analyzing its impact from three levels: collective history, the current situation and the personal dimension. This theme culminated in the message of divine reconciliation under the theme “God of mercy and goodness.”

Jesus’ life was the thread of several key activities. Participants reflected on their cause, incarnation and birth, recognizing examples of love, humility and service. These days were enriched with group dynamics and spiritual celebrations that symbolized stages such as call and choice. In the final days, he deepened in the most transcendental moments of Jesus’ life: his passion, death and resurrection. The meditations on the Cross road and the celebrations of Luz y Esperanza were moments of great emotional impact, offering participants a renewed vision of spirituality.

The program concluded with a final reflection that invited participants to commit to the application of learning in their daily lives. This commitment was reflected in personal projects, where each assistant identified concrete actions to strengthen their spirituality and faith.

The testimonies collected during the event reflect the deep impact of this experience on the life of the participants:

“There are positive changes in my life. They help me not to naturalize the violence we live. ” “It contributes to my life project guiding me where God wants me.” “Meditation and prayer, enhance my spirituality.” “It helps me to spend time to myself to observe myself and that is a great learning.” “A commitment that I take is to give time to personal reflection to strengthen my spirituality, my faith.” “Transforms my life for the good of the community, the country and the world.” “My culture is Maya Mam K’iche ‘. The exercises help me to see what I need to improve and understand what surrounds me, to know what my skills, my weaknesses and strengths are. ” “They help me understand the life of Jesus, love nature, preserve my culture and that of our grandparents.” “I have felt a very beautiful tranquility.”

This program has been rooted in the richness of the worldview Maya And Christianity represented a unique space for integration and transformation. Participants not only strengthened their faith and sense of community, but also acquired practical tools to face adversities, accompany others and promote collective well -being.

We appreciate Alboan’s support for the support of the RSAI that makes various activities in the region possible.

RSAI