Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 2)

In our first program on the topic of contemplation in St. John of the Cross, we discussed that we can expect to experience God’s concealment, which means we need to proceed in the darkness of pure faith. But this faith comes with its own measure of certitude; we do not need to feel as though we are lost. Indeed, in pure faith we proceed with the greatest confidence that we will not lose our way. At the same time, we need to be wary of even perceived divine communications. In this program, Mark and Frances offer us consolation through the practice of pure dark faith. And, with the guidance of St. John of the Cross, and Fr. Donald Haggerty, they help guide listeners through an understanding as to how to respond to divine communications. This program is particularly helpful for those currently experiencing God’s apparent absence, or those who may have received what they believe to be divine communications.

Book:  “Saint John of the Cross:  Master of Contemplation” by Fr. Donald Haggerty; Ignatius Press.

The Carmelite Conversations Podcast is an apostolate of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites community of Our Mother of Good Counsel in Dayton, Ohio. Discalced Carmelite Seculars are practicing members of the Catholic Church who, under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and inspired by St. Teresa of Jesus and St. John of the Cross, make the commitment to the Discalced Carmelite Order to seek the face of God for the sake of the church and the world. For more information about Secular Carmelites, visit our website.