Carmelite Conversations

The Signs, Saints, and Silences of Advent—to Help Us Grow Spiritually Guest: Colleen Sollinger, OCDS

Have you ever had the experience of arriving at Christmas and suddenly get this sinking feeling that you have hardly done anything to grow spiritually during the Advent season? Colleen Sollinger, our guest on Carmelite Conversation, helps us with some ideas on various ways we may prepare our hearts and souls for the Incarnation of Christ. What do the signs used in Advent mean and how might they help us? Have you ever considered asking a Saint or Advent figure to accompany you thru the season…to prepare in imitation of them…or gain insights from them? How beneficial is it to practice silence …and silent prayer during this time? It’s never too late to begin…just begin!
 
RESOURCES:
Scripture: Jn 1:29, Mt. 3:2, Mt. 3:8, Lk 1:38, Lk 1:45, Lk 17:21
Website Articles: “Degrees of Perfection” by St. John of the Cross; http://ocarm.org/ebook/John/minorworks.htm#DEGREES%20OF%20PERFECTION
“This Is Your Brain on Silence” by Daniel A. Gross; http://nautil.us/issue/16/nothingness/this-is-your-brain-on-silence
“Good Feet, Courage and Tenacity of Spirit” by a solitary bird; https://asolitarybird.wordpress.com/2016/09/13/good-feet-courage-and-tenacity-of-spirit/
“By the Manger in the Morning Prayer Journal” by Elizabeth Foss; https://blessedisshe.net/product/advent-2016-prayer-journal/
Books: “The Little Way of Advent: Meditations in the Spirit of St. Therese of Lisieux” by Fr. Gary Caster; Servant Books.
“St. John of the Cross Advent Saint” by Rev. John Saward; publ. by Discalced Carmelite Nuns of Philadelphia, PA.
“The Music of Silence: Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity for Everyone” by Elizabeth Ruth Obbard; New City.
“Divine Intimacy” from Second Week of Advent, by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen; Tan Books.

True Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and a Message for Christmas 2016

It is always important for each of us to take deliberate steps to make the most of our preparation for the Advent Season. In this particular conversation, Mark and Frances present an interesting idea of one way we can begin and continue that preparation. Drawing from previous conversations on the prayer of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity, they reemphasize the request of Elizabeth to have the Holy Spirit bring about within her another incarnation of the Word. This very prayer of course evokes the scene of Mary and the Nativity, which we can all reflect on at this time of year. For Elizabeth, Mary's silence and courageous acceptance of her mission, from the Annunciation to the Nativity, is the very model for interior souls, those souls who wish to be the resting place for God within them. With this as a backdrop, Frances and Mark then go on to explain each of our roles as members of the Mystical Body of Christ, Christ who is born within us, but of whom we are also members. They provide supporting scripture verses and other sources, including the Catechism and Papal documents, to explain this important teaching on our participation as members of Christ's mystical body. Finally, as it is clear that the heart is the very center and support of the physical body, Christ's Sacred Heart is the very center of our spiritual lives. If then, we are to 'incarnate' the word in our very person, we must also understand the importance of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and its role in our spiritual lives. This program provides a very good means of building on the theme of incarnation and leading to devotion to the Sacred Heart, as an Advent preparation for the arrival of Christ.
RESOURCES:Scripture: Lk 1:35; Eph 4:15-16; Rom 6:4-5 1; Cor 12:3; Rom 8:26; Eph 1:9-10; Col 1:24
Encyclical: Mystici Corporis Christi: Pope Pius XEE on the Mystical Body of Christ
Cathechism of the Catholic Church: #790-791
Books: “The Complete Works: Elizabeth of the Trinity, Vol. One” Trans. by Sister Aletheia Kane, OCD; ICS Publications.
“God is Love: Saint Teresa Margaret: Her Life” by Margaret Rowe; ICS Publications.
Websites: www.stteresamargaret.org
www.nhlbi.hih.gov/health-topics/hhw

Interview of Co-Host Mark Danis on a Week with the Friars…in Preparation for Advent

Taking time off from our regular routine and getting away to specifically ponder and pray features prominently in growing in the interior life of the spiritual journey. The Advent season is a perfect time for all to detach from the world and focus on the life of Christ in our soul. Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen said “The Spirit of the Advent liturgy, commemorating the age-long expectation of the Redeemer, will prepare us to celebrate the mystery of the Word made flesh by arousing in each of us an intimate, personal expectation of the renewed coming of Christ to our soul. This coming is accomplished by grace; to the degree in which grace develops and matures in us, it becomes more copious, more penetrating, until it transforms the soul into an alter Christus.” Co-host Mark Danis is interviewed in this program regarding his recent visit for a week with our Discalced Carmelite Friars. He shares some of his thoughts and experiences. We can profit from his sharing and get more inspired to dedicate this Advent season to a deeper preparation for the coming of Christ into our souls in a more intimate way than ever before. Will we make room in the “inn” of our souls for Christ to come in?
RESOURCES:
Book:“Divine Intimacy” by Father Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, OCD, Advent Week One; Tan Books.

Praying the Rosary

Many Catholics, even very faithful Catholics, have simply fallen away from the practice of praying the Rosary. This is indeed an unfortunate set of circumstances. Many of the Church's greatest Saints have consistently reminded us of the importance of the Rosary especially its use as a strong defense and even a spiritual weapon against the demons and their assaults. In this conversation Mark and Frances reexamine the importance of the Rosary as they look at it through the eyes and the words of some of its Greatest Champions. The list of individuals includes such notable figures as Saint Pope John Paul II, St Padre Pio and St Teresa of Calcutta. More than just advocating the recitation of the Rosary, however, Mark and Frances discuss how these Champions encouragement can be seen as a means of using to Rosary to confront the most difficult challenges facing our society, such challenges as Divorce, Abortion, Suicide and even Terrorism. In the second half of the conversation, Mark and Frances offer helpful hints for getting out of our Rosary rut, whether someone might have just become a bit bored with praying the Rosary, or whether someone may have stopped praying it altogether. If you have lost that loving feeling for the Rosary, this might be a good program to re-inspire you and get you back to praying this powerful prayer.

Introduction to Pere Marie-Eugene of the Child Jesus, OCD

Coming up Nov. 19, 2016, Pere Marie-Eugene of the Child Jesus, OCD (born Henri Grialou), will be beatified. Many Carmelites and those interested in Prayer and Carmelite Spirituality, will recognize his name from some of the prominent books he authored. Who is this Friar? What is he know for? How can he help us today on our spiritual journey? What was his testament? What is our responsibility? How can he help us grow in our bond with God? What did he say about the Holy Spirit? He challenges us to be resolved “to live with the Holy Spirit and seek Him out frequently.” What is his mission? Tune in to learn more.
RESOURCES:
Scripture:Jn. 7:38; Heb 11:27
Books: “I Want to See God; I Am a Daughter of the Church--a practical synthesis of Carmelite Spirituality, 2. Vols.” by Father Marie-Eugene of the Child Jesus, Trans. by Sister M. Verda Clare, CSC; Christian Classics.
“Under the Torrent of His Love: Therese of Lisieux, a Spiritual Genius” by Father Marie-Eugene of the Child Jesus, Trans. by Sister Mary Thomas Nobel, OP; Alba House.
“Where the Spirit Breathes: Prayer and Action” by Father Marie-Eugene of the Child Jesus, Trans. by Sister Mary Thomas Noble, OP; Alba House.
Websites: http://pere-marie-eugene.org www.notredamedevie.org

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity and our Incarnation in Christ

One of the most profound and important teachings of the New Testament is our need to, as St. Paul says, "Put On Christ." We must actually allow Christ to both continue to live His life through us, and renew His mystery of salvation for those come in contact with throughout our lives. Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity, The Order of Carmel's newest Saint, was particularly taken by this teaching and made it one of the central themes of her famous "Prayer to the Trinity." Of course she drew much of her understanding of this deep Theological principle from the New Testament Letters of St. Paul. This particular program uses both the writings of St. Paul, and key phrases from St. Elizabeth's prayer to help explain, and make practical for our daily lives, the application of this teaching. Of course, in order to come to a true understanding, a soul must be prepared to expose themselves, in a state of docility, to the workings of the Holy Spirit. Mark and Frances also address these issues as they relate to our contemplative prayer and our response to the circumstances of our individual lives. This is a wonderful program for those who are looking for solid principles on how to deepen our awareness and adoption of the person of Jesus Christ in our daily lives.
RESOURCES:
Scripture:Phil. 3:10, Gal. 3:27, Heb. 12:29, Heb. 10:5, Rom. 12:1, Gal. 2:20, 1 Cor 2:2, Jn 15:5, Pa. 141:2
Books: “The Doctrine of the Divine Indwelling: A Commentary on the Prayer of Sister Elizabeth of the Trinity” by Rev. Mere M. Amabel du Coeur de Jesus, Translated into English by a Discalced Carmelite; The Newman Press.
“Teresa of Avila--The Way of Perfection: A Study Edition,” Trans. by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; Study prepared by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD; ICS Publications.
“Conversation with Christ” by Peter Thomas Rohrbach, Tan Books. “Divine Intimacy” by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, OCD; Tan Books.

Lessons from St. Therese of Lisieux on Death and Dying

As we approach All Saints Day and All Souls Day, our thoughts turn to the topic of “Death & Dying.” Many people try to avoid thinking about that topic, as it brings on feelings of anxiety…or gloom…or fear. The fact of the matter is, we gain much wisdom by pondering death during our life. As the old saying goes: “The art of living well is in knowing how to die well.” What is death? How does one prepare for death? How do we confront our fear of death? St. Therese of Lisieux was confronted with death early in her life, from hearing about and seeing death all around her and especially in the death of her own mother when she was only 4 ½ years old. These occasions, rather than causing her to flee from the subject, enticed her throughout her life to ponder them deeply and seek the treasures of wisdom hidden therein. Yes, St. Therese had her own fears to confront. She confronted the meaning of death. She grasped the seed of faith in her belief in Heaven, beyond even her feelings. God allowed her to be purified especially in the last 18 months of her life. Her faith and embrace of God’s will and plan for her life surged forward in an ever- deeper surrender and abandonment to God. St. Therese shares her wisdom with us on this all-important topic which will help us today to prepare for that final day of this exile.
RESOURCES:
Scripture:  1 Thes. 5:2; 1 Cor 2:9; Ps. 23:4;
Catechism of the Catholic Church:  #1016
Article: “The Most Insightful St. Therese of Lisieux Quotes on Death” by Catherine Birri, http://www.coraevans.com/blog/article/the-most-insightful-st.-therese-of-lisieux-quotes-on-death
Books:“Story of a Soul: the Autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux,” Study Edition, Trans. by John Clarke, OCD; Prepared by Marc Foley, OCD; ICS Publications.
“Living on Love!...” and “What I’ll Soon See for the First Time!...” found in “The Poetry of St. Therese of Lisieux,” Trans. by Donald Kenney, OCD; ICS Publications.
“The Letters of St. Therese of Lisieux and Those Who Knew Her: General Correspondence, Vol. 2,” Trans. from the critical edition by John Clarke, OCD; ICS Publications.
“St. Therese of Lisieux: Her Last Conversations,” Trans. from the critical edition by John Clarke, OCD; ICS Publications.

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity: Beginning the Journey of Sainthood

It is not everyday that we get a new Carmelite Saint, but it happened again on 16 October of 2016 when the Church Canonized Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity. In this conversation Mark and Frances discuss the importance of St. Elizabeth's Canonization, her primary message of Silence, Solitude and Prayer, and what this message might mean for the Church and the world at this time in history. It is always helpful to place a Saint in the context of both their individual experiences in life, and also the time in which they lived. This conversation then begins by identifying some of the earliest stories of young Elizabeth's life, and also by looking at the political and social forces which were influencing her native France during the later part of the 19th and early part of the 20th Century. One of the most important theme's in Elizabeth's spirituality is her own understanding of her role as Co-Redemptrix, one who would willingly participate in the Redemptive work of her Spouse Jesus Christ. Indeed, one of Elizabeth's favorite descriptions of herself was as the Bride of Christ. Her explanation of this title, and its impact on her understanding of her mission serve as important lenses into our understanding of her pursuit of sanctity and her path toward Union with Christ. Finally, as with all Saints, we want to view their lives so that we can gain some deeper understanding for ourselves how we might be guided and directed along our own spiritual journey. Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity's life then provides us with some very practical and valuable lessons. She is a wonderful example especially for those of us who are trying to live out our call to holiness in the midst of the world, as that was precisely what she did even before she entered Carmel.
RESOURCES:
Books:“Elizabeth of the Trinity: A Life of Praise to God” by Sr. Giovanna Della Croce, OCD; Translated by Julie Enzler; Sophia Institute Press.
“The Complete Works: Elizabeth of the Trinity, Vol. One,” by Elizabeth of the Trinity; Translated by Sister Aletheia Kane, OCD; ICS Publications.
“Your Presence is My Joy: Life and Message of Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity” by Conrad De Meester, OCD; Translated and Printed at Darlington Carmel.
Scripture:  Romans 12:1
Articles:“The Life and Ministry of Carmelite Mystic Elizabeth of the Trinity” by Roman Catholic Spiritual Direction; http://catholicexchange.com/life-ministry-french-carmelite-mystic-elizabeth-trinity?mc_cid=642cfebe82&mc_eid=004d986b37
“Who is Elisabeth of the Trinity – Our Newest Saints?” by Roman Catholic Spiritual Direction; http://catholicexchange.com/elisabeth-trinity-newest-saint?mc_cid=642cfebe82&mc_eid=004d986b37

Intimate Friendship with Jesus Christ—from the Perspective of St. Teresa of Avila

It was through the lens of intimate friendship with Jesus Christ that the many foundations of St. Teresa of Jesus (of Avila) were begun. In her book, “The Way of Perfection,” she wrote: “All my longing was and still is that since He {Jesus} has so many enemies and so few friends that these few friends be good ones. As a result, I resolved to do the little that was in my power; that is, to follow the evangelical counsels as perfectly as I could and strive that these few persons who live here do the same.” Her life was a witness and testimony to this intimate friendship with Jesus. We must be diligent in seeking the Lord and answering “His Call.” St. Teresa counsels us on how to develop this relationship: “Represent the Lord Himself as close to you and behold how lovingly and humbly He is teaching you. Believe me, you should remain with so good a friend as long as you can. If you grow accustomed to having Him present at your side, and He sees that you do so with love and that you go about striving to please Him, He will never fail you. He will help you in all your trials; you will find Him everywhere.” (“The Way of Perfection 23.2; 26.1). It is through a frequent, intimate conversation in prayer and in the sacraments, that we can more easily grown in our union with Jesus. In this program, Mark and Frances discuss the importance of developing this friendship with Christ through the life and counsel of our Mystic and Doctor of the Church, St. Teresa of Jesus (of Avila).
RESOURCES:Scripture:  1 Jn 4:17-19; Jn 15:13; Jn 14-15
Articles:“Springtime of Faith Conference: The Toolbox of Pope Benedict,” Nashville. http://www.springtimeoffaith.org/images/Springtime%20of%20Faith%20ConferenceThe%20Toolbox%20of%20Pope%20Benedict%202010.pdf
“Christ in the Mysticism of St. Teresa” by Father Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD. http://www.angelfire.com/ca5/stjoseph/formdocs/christ_by_kieran.htm
“Teresa of Avila and Friendship” by Susan B. Cordsen; http://nebula.wsimg.com/d072ccd7a633bf3fe455a1d59188b38e?AccessKeyId=BEEADDF369000DCF3CC9&disposition=0&alloworigin=1
Books:“Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila, Vol. 1,2 and 3, ‘ The Book of Her Life,’ ‘The Way of Perfection,’ and ‘Interior Castle’” trans. by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.
“15 Days of Prayer with Saint Teresa of Aivla” by Jean Abiven; Liguori.
“Let Nothing Trouble You: 60 Reflections from the Writings of St. Teresa of Avila,” Compiled by Heidi S. Hess; Servant Publications.
“Friendship with Christ: Love and Service” by Sister Mary of Jesus and St. Joseph, OCD; Carmel, Schenectady, New York, 1972.

Joy in Suffering

There is perhaps no greater challenge for those of us who are pursuing the spiritual life then that apparent dichotomy of pain and joy. St. Paul tells us that we must, like him, be a person of joy, and in fact, we should expect to experience joy even in our most difficult times. In this compelling conversation on the top of suffering and joy, Mark and Frances share some insights from one of the most well known and popular Saints of the 20th Century, St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta. In her journals, which were only published after her death, the Church was provided a very unique view into the inner life of a future Saint. What was both remarkable and perhaps surprising for many people, was how Mother Teresa's life was a challenging combination of both suffering and joy. Through her wisdom and also the wisdom and insight of our Carmelite Saints, Frances and Mark share important insights on how all of us can deal with this apparent contradictory experiences of suffering and joy along the spiritual journey. In addition, they support these insights with very specific verses from sacred scripture, which point out that these two opposites are in fact very much a part of the Christian process of growing in the likeness of Christ.
RESOURCES:
Books:“Mother Teresa: Come Be My Light,” Edited and with Commentary by Brian Kolodiejchuk, MC; Doubleday.“I Thirst: Saint Theres of Lisieux and Mother Teresa of Calcutta,” by Jacques Gauthier; St. Pauls.“Love of the Cross: A Meditation” from the book, “The Hidden Life: Essays, Meditations, Spiritual Texts” from the Collected Works of Edith Stein, Ed.ted by Dr. L. Gelber and Michael Linssen, OCD and Translated by Waltraut Stein, PhD; ICS Publications.“Science of the Cross” by Edith Stein; ICS Publications.
Booklet:“Joy in Suffering According to St. Therese of the Child Jesus: A Novena,” by Bishop A. A. Noser, S.V.D., D.D.; Tan Books and Publishers.
Apostolic Letter:“Salvifici Doloris” (On the Christian Meaning of Human Suffering”) by Pope John Paul II; Pauline Books and Media.Scripture: Col. 1:24, Jn 15: 10-11; Mt. 22:37, 39-40; 1 Pt 1:8; 1 Jn 3:16-18; Jas 2:14-18.

The Sign of the Cross

Think about one of the most common acts you perform every day as a Christian, the Sign of the Cross. Now ask yourself whether you truly understand the meaning of this sacramental act, or what it signifies to us Christians. In this program Mark and Frances begin by providing a history of the development of Sign of the Cross. Next they discuss the three most significant meanings expressed within this sign. Much of the material for this conversation is taken from a book written by Saint Francis de Sales, which was intended to specifically defend both the use of the sign, and also provide some insight into the real power of the Sign of the Cross. As with so many of the acts of devotion we Catholics use every day, it is important for us to understand the fuller meaning and power associated with the signs of our Faith. This particular program will hopefully provide you with some of the deeper insight and understanding that will allow you to look at the Sign of the Cross in a much more meaningful way. And, it might also cause you to gain a much deeper appreciation and reverence the next time you begin to make the Sign of the Cross.
RESOURCES
Books:“The Sign of the Cross: The Fifteen Most Powerful Words in the English Language” by St. Francis de Sales; Sophia Institute Press.“The Sign of the Cross in the Nineteenth Century” by Mgr. Jean-Joseph Gaume; Loreto Publications.“Fire from Above: Christian Contemplation and Mystical Wisdom” by Dr. Anthony L. Lilles; Sophia Institute Press.“Hidden Mountain, Secret Garden: A Theological Contemplation on Prayer” by Anthony Lilles; Discerning Hearts.Catechism of the Catholic Church: CCC #1131, CCC #1670

Beginning Eucharistic Adoration with Guests: Teresa Gooding and Marika Zimmerman

What can you do to fight the suffocating plague of indifference and immorality? Eucharist Adoration!! Guests Teresa Gooding and Marika Zimmerman share the details on how to get started. What is Eucharistic Adoration and how does one go about doing this? What if your parish doesn’t have Eucharistic Adoration? How would you go about setting it up? What do the Popes say about spending time with Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament? What did some of our Carmelite Saints think about it? There are many reasons to begin Eucharistic Adoration, not the least coming from Scripture. The benefits pay off in Heavenly dividends! It’s good to start developing a love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament in our young people today, to help them become spiritually strong and virtuous.
RESOURCES:
Scripture passages:Lk. 24:29, Mt. 28:20, Jn 6:51, Jn 6:40, Jn 15:4, Mt. 26:40, Mt. 11:28, and 1 Pt 5:7
Catechism of the Catholic Church: CCC #2096, #2628
Books:“Bread of Heaven: A Treasury of Carmelite Prayers and Devotions on the Eucharist” Compiled by Penny Hickey, OCDS; Christian Classics.“Eucharistic Colloquies” by Mother Maria Candida of the Eucharist, Discalced Carmelite (1884-1949); Edizioni Feeria – Edizioni OCD.“7 Secrets of the Eucharist” by Vinny Flynn; MercySong Ignatius.“Manual for Eucharistic Adoration” by the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration; Tan Books.“Meditations for Eucharistic Adoration” by Elizabeth Ficocelli; Paulist Press.“20 Holy Hours” by Fr. Mateo Crawley-Boevey SS.CC.; St. Paul Books and Media.
Articles:“John Paul II and the Blessed Sacrament” by Jason Evert.“The Spirituality of St. Teresa of Avila Applied to the Five Marks of the Norbertine Order”“The History of Eucharistic Adoration: Development of Doctrine in the Catholic Church” by Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
Encyclicals:“Mane Nobiscum Domine” (“Stay with us Lord”) by Pope John Paul II, 2004.“Ecclesia de Eucharistia” (“The Church from the Eucharist”) by Pope John Paul II, 2003.“Dominicae Cenae” (“The Mystery and Worship of the Eucharist”) by Pope John Paul II, 1980.“Mysterium Fidei” (“The Mystery of Faith”) by Pope Paul VI, 1965.“Mirae Caritatis” (“Mirror of Charity”) by Pope Leo XIII, 1902.
Websites:www.catholicnewsagency.com for article on “24 Reasons for Spending a Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament”
benefits_of_holy_hour.pdf for article on “Over 100 Benefits of Eucharistic Adoration”
www.usccb.org “The United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.”
eucharistic-devotion on Eucharistic Devotion and Holy Hours.
perpetual-expositon-of-the-blessed-sacrament.cfm on Perpetual Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.
www.therealpresence.org on the Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration

Purity of Heart: a Spiritual Perspective

We so often hear the phrase, ‘Purity of Heart’ but what does this actually mean. More importantly, what does it mean in a spiritual context. Many people rightly believe the definition includes such characteristics as keeping our thoughts pure or keeping our bodies chaste, and this is certainly true, but neither of these elements go far enough. According to the Danish philosopher, Soren Kiergegaard, in a book by this very title, “Purity of Heart is to Will One Thing.” Scripture would seem to support Kierkegaard’s argument when it tells us to ‘Seek first the Kingdom of God.’ In other words, the first and most important thing in our life must be the pursuit of God and His Kingdom, and this is exactly what Kierkegaard argues for in his book. The entire text is basically an assault on what Kierkegaard calls ‘Double-Mindedness’ or the propensity of individuals to attempt to balance their pursuit of the Good, (which Christ Himself tells us is God) with their individual desires for the things of this world. According to Kierkegaard there can be no such balance. Instead, he argues, everything else must be subordinated to our pursuit of the only thing that can bring us ultimate fulfillment. Mark and Frances draw extensively from the writings of Kierkegaard for this important conversation, but then they go on to incorporate and validate his argument with quotes from some of the great Saints of Carmel. If you are looking for the reasons of so many of the apparent discontinuity in your life, and the remedy for these disconnects, then this is the program to listen to.
RESOURCES:
Magazine:“Magnificat,” August 2016; Yonkers, NY.
Book:“Purity of Heart Is to Will One Thing” by Soren Kierkegaard; Harper & Brothers.
“The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross: ‘Ascent to Mt. Carmel’” by John of the Cross; Trans. by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.
“The Complete Works of Elizabeth of the Trinity, Vol. 1: Major Spiritual Writings; ‘Heaven in Faith,’ by Elizabeth of the Trinity; Trans. by Aletheia Kane, OCD; ICS Publications.
Article:“Commentary On Kierkegaard” by D. Anthony Storm found at sorenkierkegaard.org
Scripture:Mt 5:8, Mt. 19:17, Mt. 6:33, Rom. 3:23, Phil. 4:6-8

How to Introduce Contemplative Prayer to Children With Guest: Colleen Sollinger, OCDS

Parents have a very important obligation to teach their children how to pray. Secular Discalced Carmelite, Colleen Sollinger, has much to share with us on this topic. She is a mother of 6 and has homeschooled all of them. 2 of the 6 are in college now. She is also a formatter for the OCDS Community in Dayton. She shares tips on how to set the stage for prayer, providing opportunities for children to pray, and ways to make it personal and relative to their lives. She also gives ideas on how to appeal to your child’s own personality. Many resources are given to help in this most important journey to God through prayer.
RESOURCES:
BOOKS:“A Spiritual Growth Plan for Your Choleric Child” by Connie Rossini; Four Waters Press.“Loyola Kids Book of Saints” by Amy Welborn; Loyola Press.“A Yearbook of Seasons and Celebrations,” by Joanna Bogle; Gracewing Press.“Prayer and Temperament: Different Prayer Forms for Different Personality Types,” by Chester P. Michael and Marie C. Norrisey; The Open Door, Inc.“Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux,” translated by John Clarke OCD; ICS Publications.
WEBSITES:In the Heart of My Homeelizabethfoss.com
Catholic All Yearcatholicallyear.com

Catholic Apps with guests, Jennifer Kane, OCDS and Tim Bete, OCDS

People have access to an amazing amount of technology thru their computers, tablets, and smartphones. How can this technology be used to help us grow in our spiritual life? How can it help us grow in prayer? How can we use it so it enhances our growth rather than becoming a distraction? How can it help those with a vocation to the Carmelites? CatholicApptitude.org Founder, Jennifer Kane has much to share with us. Tim Bete, techno guru, helps Carmelite Conversations’ host, Frances, interview Jennifer to get all the newest scoops and best advice on Catholic Apps.
Resources:
www.CatholicApptitude.org
Scripture:The Catholic Apptitude website/apostolate is based on Mark 4:1-2.Catholic Apptitude is also influenced by Pope Francis’ message for the 50th World Communications Day, Communication and Mercy: a Fruitful Encounter (2016).In this light, Jennifer Kane (founder of CatholicApptitude.org) sees Catholics apps as developers (via software) communicating with users in a nonjudgmental way. Think about it. This software doesn’t presume anything about the user nor does it make judgments. The user doesn’t sense this even in the examination of conscience section of a confession app! Catholic apps are “welcoming” almost by nature. So many of them are specifically designed to “accompany” the user in his/her spiritual journey, as Francis recommends.
Book:“Divine Intimacy” by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, OCD; Tan Books

Humility: the Bedrock of Prayer and Spiritual Growth, Part Three

The conversation on humility continues in this 3rd program of 3. Why is “humility” such an important virtue among all the other virtues? What does a humble soul really look like? What characteristics does a truly humble soul have? What can help motivate us to want to grow in humility? How can we conquer our natural and sinful inclinations so as to grow in humility? What are some images that serve as models of humility to motivate us? What are the rewards of humility? Finally, what are the famous 12 Steps (or Degrees) of Humility?
Resources:
Scripture:Mt. 11:29
Articles Online:“Treatise on Humility” by Pope Leo XIII“Humility: 30 Short Meditations” by Fr. Richard F. Clarke, SJ.
Books:“Divine Intimacy” by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, OCD; Tan Books.“The Way of Transformation” by Fr. Mark O’Keefe, O.S.B.; ICS Publications.“Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.“The Teresian Gospel” by Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; Darlington Carmel.“Thoughts: Blessed Mary of Jesus Crucified” by Rev. D. Buzy, S.C.J.; Carmel of Bethlehem.“The Steps of Humility & Pride” by Bernard of Clairvaux; Cistercian Publications.“Humble Pie: St. Benedict’s Ladder of Humility” by Carol Bonomo; Morehouse Publishing.“Humility: Wellspring of Virtue” by Dietrich von Hildebrand; Sophia Institute Press.

Humility: the Bedrock of Prayer and Spiritual Growth, Part Two

Guest: Chris Cotter, OCDS
Without the virtue of humility, the house of our interior life falls, as humility is the bedrock foundation on which to build. Guest, Chris Cotter, continues the conversation about humility because of its great importance in our growth. Pope Francis said recently at the World Youth Day in Poland: “Thus, contrary to our expectations and perhaps even our desires, the kingdom of God, now as then, ‘does not come in a way that attracts attention’ but rather in littleness, in humility.” The very word, “humility” comes from “humble” which comes from the Latin word “humus” which means grounded. How good it is to stay grounded…grounded in Christ and the humility he showed us. As we pray, we should continue to grow in self knowledge. “To know who we are in relation to who God is” is paramount in spiritual growth. Not all souls experience the heights of prayer, but all souls experience moments of being humbled. To embrace these moments is an opportunity to really enlarge our hearts and imitate our Lord. Chris Cotter gives us several suggestions from St. Teresa of Avila in how to grow in humility.
Resources:
Books:“The Prayers of Saint Therese of Lisieux” translated by Alettheia Kane, OCD.“Letters (1579)” by St. Teresa of Avila, Vol. 1; E. Allison Peers, ed. 1950.“Interior Castle,” “The Book of Her Life,” “The Way of Perfection” all from “The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila;” ICS Publications.“The Teresian Gospel: An Introduction to a Fruitful Reading of the Way of Perfection” by Otilio Rodriguez; Darlington Carmel, U. K., 1974.“Sayings of Light and Love” from “The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross;” ICS Publications.
Cathechism of the Catholic Church:#2559, #2706, #2558
Scripture:Lk 18:14Matt 11:29James 4:6Genesis 2:7Luke 18:9-14
Other:OCDS Constitutions, Section 17.

Humility: the Bedrock of Prayer and Spiritual Growth, Part One

St. Teresa of Avila said: “There is more value in a little study of humility and in a single act of it than in all the knowledge in the world.” With that in mind, we begin a “little study of humility.” We begin with St. Teresa’s quote: “Humility is to walk in truth.” We must walk in the truth of who we are and who we are before God. To walk in truth is to act in justice. What does St. Teresa teach us about true humility? What signs indicate true humility versus false humility? What signs can we look for in discerning the exercise of humility in temptaions? Why is humility the essential key to holiness? Why is humility a sign of great courage? Listen and learn along with us.
Resources:
“Divine Intimacy” by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, OCD; Tan Books.“Way of Perfection” by St. Teresa of Avila, from “The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.“Interior Castle” by St. Teresa of Avila, from “The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.
Scripture: 1 Peter 5:5b-7

The Grace of Contemplative Prayer, Part Three of Three

In the final segment of the three part series, Mark and Frances start with St. John of the Cross’s counsel on the attitude the soul should take during the transition to the beginning of the supernatural gift of contemplation. We then discuss different metaphors that may help one to understand what this is like. We then bring up descriptions of contemplation by our saints and others. Finally, what is the key sign that a soul has experienced the gift of infused contemplation? What are the general characteristics of this supernatural prayer? What are the four stages of infused contemplative prayer? What are the fruits of this gift of prayer? Finally, what are the eight practical steps a soul may take so as to live a more contemplative life and incorporate contemplative prayer?
Resources:
Books:“The Practice of Contemplation According to John of the Cross” by James W. Kinn; ICS Publications.“The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.“Fire Within” by Fr. Thomas Dubay, SM; Ignatius Press.“What is Contemplation?” by Thomas Merton; Templegate Publishers.“Armchair Mystic: Easing Into Contemplative Prayer” by Mark E. Thibodeaux, SJ; St. Anthony Messenger Press.
Scripture:Psalm 46:11Luke 11:9-13Jeremiah 29:11-14
Articles:“Transition from Meditation to Contemplation According to St. John of the Cross” by Father Laurian Zabalza, OCD

The Grace of Contemplative Prayer, Part Two of Three

In this segment, Mark and Frances delve into more of the particulars of the transition from active mental prayer to passive contemplative prayer. We start with a discussion of how to prepare for the gift of infused contemplation. St. Teresa of Avila recommended the practice of the prayer of recollection. What do we need to do to get recollected? What does the transition from the active prayer degrees to the passive contemplative prayer degrees look like? What signs does St. John of the Cross give us to help us know when we are being called to leave discursive prayer and mental reasoning and practice more simplicity in prayer? What signs does he give to indicate we have entered the “Passive Night of the Sense”? What should the soul do when we are in this transition period? What should the soul be cautious about?
Resources:
Brochure:“St. Teresa’s Prayer of Recollection” by St. Teresa of Avila, brochure; ICS Publications.
Scripture:Ps. 46:11
Books:“Divine Intimacy” by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, OCD; Tan Books.“The Ascent of Mt. Carmel” ( Book 2, Ch. 13) by St. John of the Cross from “The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.“The Dark Night” (Book I, Ch. 9) by St. John of the Cross from “The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.“The Practice of Contemplation According to John of the Cross” by James W. Kinn; ICS Publications.

The Grace of Contemplative Prayer, Part One of Three

Join Mark and Frances on an introduction and discussion on contemplative prayer. We start by defining the words: prayer, grace, and contemplation. The word “contemplation” means many different things depending on the context and culture it is used. There is much misinformation regarding different aspects of this word. Mark and Frances talk about what contemplation is NOT as well as how it is compared to New Age practices. We then go into both the natural and supernatural modes of contemplative prayer. St. John of the Cross, Doctor of the Church, is the expert we turn to in order to define the term.
Resources:
Scripture:Jeremiah 29:11-14Psalm 46:11
Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC):CCC #2559CCC #2558CCC #2709CCC #1997CCC #2003CCC #2005CCC #2724
Books:“Spiritual Canticle” by John of the Cross, from “The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.
“The Dark Night” by John of the Cross, from “The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross” translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.

Silence and Poetry

In this second of a two part series, Mark and Frances continue a discussion of the important role of silence in our contemplative prayer life, and in our daily life. Building on the more objective list of the twelve degrees of silence they discussed in the previous program, this week they introduce the writings of Saint Mary of Jesus Crucified, a Carmelite Saint who was Canonized in 2015, where Jesus Himself instructs the Saint on how to practice silence. The Lord uses very powerful poetic imagery to try and provide a picture of just what He wants Miriam (Saint Mary of Jesus Crucified), and for that matter all of us, to try and practice this deep interior silence. The Lord well understands that it is not the external noise of the world that often interrupts our efforts to find this silence, but rather it is the reverberating echo of our own thoughts and internal conversation that disrupts our prayer life. External events and circumstances will always pose a threat to our interior silence, but it is more how we respond to them and what permission we give them to enter into our hearts that has the potentially most negative consequences for our prayer. This program is very helpful for anyone looking to find more effective ways to practice silence, both in prayer and in their daily life.

The Role of Silence in Prayer

Here Mark and Frances reintroduce a topic they believe does not get enough attention in our discussion of contemplative prayer or even in conversations about the spiritual journey. The topic is the important role of silence in our daily prayer and in our daily lives. Mark and Frances begin by explaining that the spiritual definition of silence goes well beyond the simple absence of noise, and they readily admit that our human language always falls short when trying to adequately explain what is meant by true silence. Indeed, they contend it is something that can only be experienced by the individual soul; it is really a gift of the Holy Spirit and really the most we can hope to do it dispose ourselves to receive this gift. None the less, in this two part series, Mark and Frances do attempt to provide some explanation of what is meant by this gift if silence, and more importantly they hope that by offering what descriptions they can, the listener will be in a better position to seek after this intimate encounter of silence in prayer. In this conversation they begin by explaining the twelve degrees of silence that are offered from the writings of the Desert Fathers. These include some of the more obvious elements of quieting our imagination, our feelings or emotions and our self love. But the list also includes the less obvious elements of needing to quiet our intelligence, judgement and will. This program is a very good introduction to the critically important role of silence in our prayer life and in the daily circumstances of our spiritual journey.

An interview with Fr. and Carmelite Friar Don Brink OCD

In this conversation Mark and Frances invite Fr. Don Brink into the studio for a lively conversation on a range of topics, all things Carmel. Fr. Don reflects on the different stages of Contemplative prayer and how we might identify some of the elements of our progression through these stages. He also discusses the sometimes difficult balance individual souls must attempt to find between our lives of prayer and our call to active ministry in the world. Fr. Don makes very clear, consistent with sound Carmelite teaching, that our more active ministry in the Church, whether teaching, assisting the poor or anyone of a number of works of charity we may engage in, must always be grounded in and preceded by our life of prayer. Additionally, Fr. Don goes to some length to emphasize the importance of the role of the Holy Spirit in our spiritual journey. He strongly advocates that we must continually seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and allow this great gift of God to direct our path through all the circumstances of our life. This is a very good program for those who may be looking for a broad introduction to all the key elements of Carmelite life.

The Marian Devotion of St. Teresa of Avila

How did St. Teresa of Avila express her Marian devotion and how might we imitate her? Although St. Teresa did not write a major work on the Blessed Virgin Mary, there is no doubt the importance she played in St. Teresa’s life, from her youth up through her founding many monasteries. One may ask, what place did the rosary have in her prayer life? What was the importance of the Virgin Mary in St. Teresa’s prayer? Did she have some mystical encounters involving the Blessed Mother? And, for today, how might we grow in our devotion to our Heavenly Mother?
 Resources:
 Scripture: Lk 1:35
 Books:
“The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila, Vol. 1, 2, and 3,” Translated by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD and Otilio Rodriguez, OCD; ICS Publications.
 “Sermon in a Sentence: a Treasury of Quotations on the Spiritual Life, Vol. 4, St. Teresa of Avila,” Selected and Arranged by John P. McClermon; Ignatius Press
Article:
“Saint Teresa of Jesus and the Virgin Mary” found at www.ocd.pcn.nt/mad_en1.htm