The word mystic presents a similar problem to the word contemplation. It’s not particular to Catholics, or even Christians. And among Catholics, mystic is understood in different senses. What does it mean to be a mystic, according to the Catholic Church? How did the Carmelite saints view mysticism? Is mysticism for a chosen few, …
In my post last week we defined spiritual detachment as getting rid of our selfish clinging to things or persons other than God in response to His love for us. Today I would like to address why detachment is necessary. St. John of the Cross, co-founder of the Order of Discalced Carmelites and a doctor …
Among Carmelite saints, John of the Cross, co-founder of the Discalced Carmelites with Teresa of Avila, is not the most popular. Why not? He insisted that detachment was necessary for holiness. Many Catholics, misunderstanding his teaching, think it too hard and too dull. On first reading his Ascent of Mt. Carmel, they might be tempted …
What is detachment in the Catholic spiritual life? Read More »
What is Carmelite spirituality? A couple of readers have asked me this question, and I assume several more have wondered and not asked. So I’m going to write this as a post (for maximum visibility and readership), then make it a permanent page soon. Carmelite spirituality stems from the teaching and lifestyle of one of …
In this occasional series of posts, I recommend resources for you and your family in 100 words or less. More detailed reviews may come later. By Fr. Thomas Dubay. Thorough, understandable explanation of Carmelite spirituality. Contains short biographies of Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. Helps you discern where you are in Teresa’s …
Today, December 14, is the feast of St. John of the Cross. Watch this video Fr. Robert Barron made about the saint a few years ago.