Carmelite Conversations
Carmelite Conversations is a podcast dedicated to the teachings of Carmelite spirituality, exploring how these ancient contemplative practices apply to modern, busy lives. The episodes offer guidance on combining deep prayer with active service within the Church. The content is particularly aimed at Secular Carmelites and those discerning a calling to the Carmelite order.
Episodes
2026 OCDS World Encounter in Ávila, Spain, with Vivien Foster, OCDS
In this episode, Tim Bete, OCDS, interviews Vivien Foster, OCDS, about her experience attending the 2026 OCDS World Encounter in Ávila, Spain, what she learned, and the opportunities presented at the Encounter. The meeting asked a fundamental question: What does it mean to be Carmelites in today’s world? How can a spirituality rooted in prayer, contemplation, silence, and interiority become a livi
Chapter 2: Called to Carmel, Called to Community: Reflections on the Carmelite Rule, Secular Constitutions, and Statutes by Tim Bete, OCDS
Chapter 2 of Called to Carmel, Called to Community: Reflections on the Carmelite Rule, Secular Constitutions, and Statutes by Tim Bete, OCDS. This chapter covers Our Identity, Values, and Commitment (Constitutions, 1 to 9).
In Called to Carmel, Called to Community, Tim Bete shares his reflections on the Carmelite Rule, OCDS Constitutions, and Provincial Statutes. The book brings the governing docu
Chapter 1: Called to Carmel, Called to Community: Reflections on the Carmelite Rule, Secular Constitutions, and Statutes by Tim Bete, OCDS
Chapter 1 of Called to Carmel, Called to Community: Reflections on the Carmelite Rule, Secular Constitutions, and Statutes by Tim Bete, OCDS. This chapter covers the Rule of St. Albert.
In Called to Carmel, Called to Community, Tim Bete shares his reflections on the Carmelite Rule, OCDS Constitutions, and Provincial Statutes. The book brings the governing documents to life and connects them to the
Clarifying the Dark Night with Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
Have you ever considered yourself a mystic? What exactly is a mystic? What is mysticism? How does it apply to me?
The mystic, St. John of the Cross, dives into what the “Dark Night of the Soul” entails. In general, many people just think it refers to hard times. In this presentation, Deacon Baldwin clarifies that the “Dark Night” is by first giving us examples of what it is NOT!
He follows b
Dark Night of the Senses with Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, shares a Lenten message about the Dark Night of the Senses, St. John of the Cross, disposing ourselves to God's grace, and seeking God, not His gifts.
Into the Silent Land with Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS
Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS shares a reflection on how to accept our own weaknesses and obstacles to our union with God. Deacon Mark quotes the book Into the Silent Land by Martin Laird.
Advancement ceremony homily with Fr. John MacQuarrie
During this homily given by Fr. John MacQuarrie, the spiritual assistant for our Secular Carmelite Community, discusses the outward sign of Carmel as he welcomes three members of our community who were clothed with the ceremonial brown scapular. He also reflects on the Constitutions of the Secular Carmelites and our Christian roles as priests, prophets, and kings.
True Joy with Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
In this homily, Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, discusses the true meaning of joy and how the Carmelite saints viewed joy.
Our Aptitude for Receiving God’s Grace by Deacon Mark Danis
What can we do to be better predisposed to receive God’s Grace leading to Union with Him? We know that “only the pure of heart see God.” So, how do we purify our hearts most effectively? Discalced Secular Carmelite Deacon Mark Danis gives us great insights on this topic and quotes St. Elizabeth of the Trinity to help us understand.
On the Mountain by Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
Mountains play a prominent role in Carmelite Spirituality and in Prayer. What does the mountain represent? In the scriptures, we read about the Prophet Elijah and mountains. What did the mountains represent for Elijah? Even our Lord went to the mountains many times in His life. How does that connect to our lives today?
Reflection on Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
How did the title of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel come about? What is the connection with the Prophet Elijah? How did the spirituality of Elijah spread across the world? What happened on July 16th that is so significant to Carmelites? What is the connection of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel to the Church approved apparitions of Our Lady in Lourdes and in Fatima? How are we connected today?
Marriage is Free, Full, Faithful, and Fruitful
In marriage preparation, Catholic couples are instructed about the Covenant of Love. The elements in particular that are addressed are being free, full, faithful, and fruitful. Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, analyzes these same elements as it relates to Carmelite spirituality. It is very enlightening and enriching.
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 9)
The “Will” in the Prayer of Contemplation (Ch. 13 of the book).
Soren Kierkegaard said, Purity of Heart is to Will One Thing. This one thing of course is God's Will. St. John of the Cross speaks about the activity of the will as much if not more than any of the other faculties of the human person. The other two are intellect and memory. But it is the will that most significantly drives human beh
Thinking about the Samaritan Woman During Lent
During this Lenten season, and by focusing on a few important points in the scripture passage on the Samaritan Woman, Deacon Mark Danis uses the lense of contemplation to highlight the importance of coming to know the truth about ourselves so that by coming into the light, we may be transformed by God.
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 8)
So often in the spiritual journey, we can run into roadblocks. We can mistakenly perceive that we have gotten off course, and we might immediately seek to turn back to find the right path again. However, if we are walking the path of contemplation, there will most certainly be times of darkness, instances where we may feel we have done something wrong, and where we are no longer experiencing the s
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 7)
If you feel as though you have reached a plateau in your prayer life, or after many years of active prayer, you feel as though you are suddenly stuck, it may be the Lord is calling you to a deeper encounter with Him. The spiritual life is not static, it moves through different phases. And, like any relationship, if it is going to continue to grow, there must be changes in the way we approach praye
Interior Castle (part 12): Seventh Dwelling Place; Ch. 1-2: The Grand Entrance and Spiritual Marriage
What is like to enter into the 7th Dwelling Place? What was it like for St. Teresa? Then we turn to a discussion about spiritual marriage. We focus on what this experience/union with God was like for St. Teresa. These chapters truly help us to have Holy Amazement!
RESOURCES:
“Interior Castle, Study Guide, 2nd Edition” by St. Teresa of Avila; Translated and Prepared by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD;
Christmas Preparation for Carmelites
Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS, shares ways to prepare during Advent for the birth of our Lord. He provides suggestions specific for Secular Carmelites. This talk was given during a Holy Hour.
Interior Castle (part 11): Sixth Dwelling Place; Ch. 10-11: Preparing to Enter the Kingly Chambers
In the final rooms of the 6th Dwelling Place of the Interior Castle, St. Teresa teaches us about some special favors our Lord gives to prepare the soul with wedding garments for entrance into His Kingly Chambers, the Throne Room. The Lord gives us the light to know we are in God and God is in us and how damaging it is for us to sin in God. In order to go forward, the soul must also understand
The Determined Determination of St. Teresa of Avila
On the Solemnity of St. Teresa of Avila, Deacon Mark Danis gave an inspiring reflection. His focus was on the famous quote of St. Teresa: “You must have a very determined determination.” He then asks what are we to be so determined about. Secondly, he asks how do we reconcile our determined determination with our total abandonment to God’s will. This is a very fruitful and inspiring reflectio
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 6)
The most challenging phase of our spiritual journey is the transition from meditative prayer to contemplative prayer. This transition literally requires us to begin to abandon the comfortable methods of prayer, and the use of our faculties, that we have come to rely on. In this conversation, Mark and Frances explain the disposition the soul must adopt when it discerns the Lord is calling it to t
Interior Castle (part 10): Sixth Dwelling Place; Ch. 7-9: Keeping Christ Present
The Lord (the Bridegroom) continues to draw the soul (the Bride) closer to Him through the purification of the soul as well as mystical favors that may occur. In this episode, we talk about the importance of keeping the humanity of Christ present in our prayer. Additionally, we focus on two very special favors that St. Teresa of Avila experienced: the intellectual vision of Christ’s Presence at
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 5)
One of the most difficult phases in the spiritual life of prayer, is the transition from meditation to contemplation. In this conversation, Mark and Frances continue their discussion on Fr. Donald Haggerty's Book on the writings of John of the Cross. Here, they explore the five critical means for identifying if a soul is being invited to move from discursive meditation to contemplation. They ident
Interior Castle (part 9): Sixth Dwelling Place; Ch. 4-6: Mansion of Spiritual Betrothal & Mystical Communications
God continues to draw the soul closer to Him through the purification of the soul as well as mystical favors that may occur. In this episode, we talk about ecstasies, raptures, flights of the spirit, spiritual betrothal, gift of tears, and the prayer of jubilation. These are all communications from God to the individual soul to draw the soul closer to Himself. St. Teresa always helps us know th
The Active Night of the Purification of the Spirit
In this homily, Deacon Mark Danis asked himself what can souls do to prepare themselves in the Active Night to enter into the Passive Night of the Spirit, which St. John of the Cross discusses in his book, “Ascent to Mount Carmel” as well as in book, “The Dark Night of the Soul.” Deacon Danis helps us understand why there is a need for the purification of the faculties of the memory, intellect an
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 4)
In the life of prayer, there are always transitions. We cannot remain static in our pursuit of God. In this particular program, Mark and Frances identify the seven vices that often hold us back from progressing into deeper, more interior stages of prayer. They also identify how St. John of the Cross counsels souls to respond to these impediments to our spiritual growth. Next, they offer eviden
The Third Spiritual Alphabet and St. Teresa of Avila
The 16th Century Spanish Franciscan Friar, Francisco de Osuna, was the author of a book considered to be a great masterpiece and spiritual classic called: “The Third Spiritual Alphabet,” which profoundly influenced the great Discalced Carmelite, St. Teresa of Avila. She particularly focused on his description and practice of the prayer of recollection as a pathway to union with God.
In this podca
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 3)
As we continue the journey with Fr. Haggerty, through the works of St. John of the Cross, we now wrestle with one of the least understood, and little practiced requirements for entry into contemplative prayer. This program focuses first on the practice of asceticism, the healthy denial of our desires so that we can create space for God to fill us with the only desire that matters – Himself. Then,
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.
Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 1)
St. John of the Cross did not write for beginners in prayer. His works are for those who have been practicing prayer for some time and have begun to make progress on the spiritual journey. In this conversation, Mark and Frances discuss two of the most critical aspects of our maturing relationship with God. The first is the sometimes difficult reality that God conceals Himself from our efforts t
Interior Castle (part 8): Sixth Dwelling Place; Ch. 1-3: Greater Trials & Greater Favors
Here in the 6th Dwelling Place, the soul goes through an intensification of the Dark Night, specifically the Dark Night of the Spirit. It’s no surprise that St. Teresa of Avila begins in the first chapter with the trials and sufferings of this mansion. However, she quickly draws the souls attention to the LOVE of God in the second chapter through the Wounds of Love. She herself is known for ha
Interior Castle (part 7): Fifth Dwelling Place; Ch. 3 & 4: True Union with God
As we continue the journey through the interior castle, we grow deeper and deeper in our intimacy and relationship with the Lord. The 5th Dwelling Place/Mansion can be understood to be the deeper revelation of God to the soul and the joining of hands in spiritual courtship with our Divine Spouse. It is in anticipation of a deeper union to come in the remaining mansions. St. Teresa of Avila gives
Evangelical Counsels and Perfection
What are the Evangelical Counsels and why are they important to Carmelites? This homily by Deacon Baldwin was given to the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites in Dayton during a Community meeting Holy Hour.
Interior Castle (part 6): Fifth Dwelling Place; New Life in Christ, Fragments of Heaven
As we continue the journey through the interior castle, we grow deeper and deeper in our intimacy and relationship with the Lord. The 5th Dwelling Place/Mansion can be understood to be the joining of hands in spiritual courtship with our Divine Spouse and is in anticipation of a deeper union to come in the remaining mansions. St. Teresa of Avila helps us understand this interior transformation by
St. Therese: Being and doing for the Lord
St. Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, known as “the little flower,” was prophetically called by Pope Pius X, the “greatest saint of modern times.” Time continues to echo her greatness. As a Doctor of the Church, St. Therese continues to be the subject of numerous new books and homilies each year. This year, 2023, is a very special year for all Carmelites as well as the Church. We a
St. John of the Cross’ Light in the Dark
How does the teaching of St. John of the Cross help us to be “light” in the “dark” that surrounds us in our day? This presentation by Deacon Baldwin was given to the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites in Dayton, OH for their Day of Recollection. The theme of the day was “We Are the Light of the World.” Although some people are put off or scared by the negation and darkness of St. John of the
Interior Castle (part 5): Fourth Dwelling Place; Transition & Transformation
This is an exciting mansion as God begins to take the lead becoming much more active in the soul, while the soul becomes more passive and receptive to God, more fully surrendering to Him, especially in prayer. It is the beginning of the mystical life with the gifts of infused contemplation. These degrees of prayer are called “infused recollection” and “prayer of quiet” (spiritual delight). In th
Interior Castle (part 4): Third Dwelling Place; Pioneer or Settler?
In reference to the third dwelling place/mansion, St. Teresa of Avila tells us that she believes “that through the goodness of God there are many of these souls in the world.” Of course, that was in the late 1500s. The souls here are good practicing Catholics. Mistakenly, many of these souls think they are at the heights of their spiritual growth, when, in reality, they are at the adolescent stage
The extraordinary--but ordinary--life of St. Joseph
In the month of March, the Church celebrates the feast of the great St. Joseph, Patron Saint of the Universal Church. He is also the Protector of the Discalced Carmelite Order. So often, one might think our Saints are so far above us in holiness that it’s incomprehensible how we could imitate them. In this Carmelite Conversation, Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, talks to us about the Extraordinary bu
Interior Castle (part 3): Second dwelling place, the seed is germinating, the battle intensifies
The Second Dwelling Place or Mansion pertains to souls who have already begun to practice prayer and have heard the calls of the Lord. Hence, the seed planted in the first mansion is now starting to germinate and sprout roots. The temptations are greater because their awareness has grown through the calls of God. What are these temptations? How do we combat them? What are the remedies? What
“Nada, Nada, Nada” of St. John of the Cross
When a Carmelite hears the word, “Nada,” they automatically think of the great Discalced Carmelite Doctor of Love, St. John of the Cross. What does that word mean? Why is this word so deeply associated with St. John of the Cross? Is this a harsh concept to live? How can we apply this concept to our own lives and our families? This conversation will answer those questions and give some backgro
Faith Is not a zero-sum game, with Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS
What is this journey of faith? What are some of the misconceptions people have about this journey of faith? What will inspire us on this journey? Deacon Mark Danis details for us what is of immense value to us beyond the purification and healing of our souls and what we must do regarding our eternal destiny.
Lenten thoughts & resources for 2023
This reflection is focused on the “why” of Lent. Why fast? Why pray? Why give alms? Why does the Church tell us to do these 3 things? Where does this come from? How do these 3 tactics form a strategic battle plan to conquer sin in our lives? How does this relate to the Theological Virtues, the Evangelical Counsels, the Superior Faculties of the Soul, Virtues, and the Harmony of Life? This is
Interior Castle (part 2): Image of the Soul in the First Dwelling Place
Guest, Theresa Rittenhouse, OCDS, joins host Frances Harry in a Carmelite Converstion on the first dwelling place/mansion of St. Teresa of Avila’s classic masterpiece, “The Interior Castle.” We cover some of her wonderful images of the soul and also images of God. But, what is the soul? We take time to define the soul and describe the anatomy of the soul in addition to giving a brief break down
St. Therese’s Influence on a Priest’s Vocation
What a joy it is to hear how a Saint has particularly influenced someone! Today’s Carmelite Conversation details how St. Therese of Lisieux helped a priest in his vocation. Host, Frances Harry, OCDS, interviews Fr. Robert Hale, who was recently ordained. Listen to his story of how St. Therese became a good friend and intercessor for him. He has offered to us his personal testimony with lots of
A Soul of Silence: Sister Elizabeth of the Trinity
Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS, shares reflections about the short book, A Soul of Silence: Sister Elizabeth of the Trinity. The book, which was published in 1949, was written by a Carmelite nun, Mother Mary Amabel of the Heart of Jesus, and translated from French into English by a Discalced Carmelite.
Download a PDF file of the book.
Interior Castle (part 1): The Our Father Prayer
St. Teresa of Avila, in her classic masterpiece, The Interior Castle, teaches us how to become more intimate with God by journeying through the seven mansions/dwelling places of this interior castle of our soul. A great way to identity each of these degrees of intimacy with God is through the “Our Father” prayer. This provides a new perspective that can be very helpful in understanding this jour
Replay: St. Teresa Margaret and the Practice of the Presence of God
This episode is a replay of a popular episode from 2019.
One of the single most important disciplines we can adopt is the continual practice of the presence of God in our lives. This practice is not achieved by simply thinking about God be everywhere, though certainly He is all around us as well as in us, and we should take great comfort in this reality. Beyond this, however, we should recognize t
Christ Made Manifest (Epiphany)
This homily by Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, was given during Evening Prayer for the Dayton Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites on Feast of the Epiphany in Jan 2023.
Many interesting aspects of Epiphany are brought to our attention that one may not have considered before. We know the Magi came to the Infant Jesus bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh by following a star; but listen to th
Rejoice and Be Light (Homily by Fr. John MacQuarrie)
It was during the Advent season when the Dayton OCDS Community gathered together for the Rite of Making the Promise/Vows. The Spiritual Assistant of the community, Fr. John MacQuarrie, delivered a homily touching on many Carmelite themes.
Since this also occurred on Gaudete Sunday , rejoicing in the Lord ,as spoken by St. Paul, was clearly on everyone’s mind. In Romans, he says our salvation is c
Replay: The Christmas Grace and Epiphany of St. Therese of Lisieux
This episode is a replay of a popular episode from 2017. St. Therese of Lisieux is a Giant Soul among the Saints being one of the Doctors of the Church. On this her birthday (Jan 2), Guest Marika Zimmerman and Host Frances Harry talk about her famous Christmas Conversion. We go into a great deal of in-depth discussion about this moment. What was the conversion all about? When did it occur? How did
“God, Be Yourself My Sanctity.” (Part 2)
In this presentation, Frances Harry, OCDS, speculates on what it looks like when God is our sanctity, especially as seen in the life and words of St. Therese of Lisieux. It follows from part one of the same title which discussed this phrase which was used in St. Therese’s famous prayer, “Act of Oblation to Merciful Love.” Through the example of St. Therese, we too, can imitate her and pray this
“God, Be Yourself My Sanctity” (Part 1)
Frances Harry, OCDS, discusses, “God, Be Yourself My Sanctity," a phrase used by St. Therese of Lisieux in her famous prayer, “The Act of Oblation to Merciful Love,” found in her book, “Story of a Soul.” What does St. Therese really mean in this part of her prayer? Is it possible? And is it possible for us? Frances Harry, OCDS, helps us work through these questions and more. She was particula
The Beatitudes Connection to the Ten Commandments (and Carmel)
Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, shares a homily about the Beatitudes connection to the Ten Commandments. To help us grow in love of God and neighbor, the Lord has given us the Ten Commandments as well as the Beatitudes. They are a sure guide to Christian perfection and are of vital importance in the vocation to Carmel, as well as the battle against the world, satan and self. What is the connection o
A Model for Parents: Sts. Louis and Zélie Martin
Tim Bete, OCDS, interviews Annette Goulden, OCDS, about her book, Rooted in Love: Louis and Zélie Martin: Models of Married Love, Family Life, and Everyday Holiness.
From the publisher:
When Sts. Louis and Zélie Martin were canonized in 2015, they were the first spouses to be declared saints as a couple. Their lives are proof that God works through ordinary families to draw his future saints―like
Replay: Testing and Discerning a Vocation to the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites with Guest, Colleen Sollinger, OCDS
This episode is a repeat one of our most-popular program from 2017.
Who is called to be a Secular Discalced Carmelite? How do you distinguish between those who are called and those who are not called? What are some principles that you can use to discern the vocation to the OCDS? Guest, Colleen Sollinger, shares 6 distinct elements that, considered in totality, paint a good picture of a soul who
An Analogy of Spiritual Childhood and a Reflection on the Rosary, with Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS
Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS, gives us an analogy of Spiritual Childhood of St. Therese of Lisieux. He offers us an analogy that we can quickly identify with that will help us go deeper into understanding St. Therese’s great leap of faith into God. This analogy will also give us several insights into prayer. Deacon Danis also reflects on the rosary as something we enter into rather than something th
Detachment: An Essential for Divine Intimacy, with Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
One aspect of what is needed to experience Divine Intimacy is “detachment.” This presentation will focus on what detachment is, and what it is not…with the goal of understanding and incorporating detachment into who we are. To understand detachment, we must also understand attachment as well as right order in relationships. Detachment is the process by which we set our loves in right order. Wh
The Prophetic Life and the Call of Discalced Carmelite Seculars to the Living Flame of Love, Homily by Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
Members from several communities of the Order of the Discalced Carmelite Seculars gathered for a yearly retreat at the Maria Stein Spiritual Center in Ohio in August 2022. The Sunday Mass fell on the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time in Year C.
Deacon Baldwin presents us with an in-depth parallel of the life of the Prophet Jeremiah with the life of our Lord Jesus Christ. He focuses on the purifying f
Homily for the feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, with Deacon Rusty Baldwin
Homily for the feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, with Deacon Rusty Baldwin
Reparation with Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS
Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS recently gave a homily on the topic of reparation that we are happy to share with you!
Silence…the Language of God, with Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
Silence is golden. We have often heard that phrase. Silence is really a deep Bible truth. In this presentation, Deacon Baldwin will address that truth and point out the use of silence in prayer and particularly in the life of contemplatives and the gift of contemplation in prayer. He addresses the questions: “Should I give up all vocal prayer and only strive for silence in prayer?” “What Sc
Work: The Road to Holiness, with Tim Bete, OCDS
Have you ever thought about your work as a road to holiness? Discalced Carmelite Secular Tim Bete often struggled to understand the relationship between faith and work. In this presentation, Tim references the teachings of Br. Lawrence of the Resurrection to explain how we can see our work as a place to encounter God. He also pulls from Church documents, scripture, and the lives of other Carme
A Radiance of the Holy Spirit: St. Mary of Jesus Crucified, OCD, with Frances Harry, OCDS
St. Mary of Jesus Crucified, OCD (also known as Mariam Baouardy) is one of the most extraordinary Saints in Carmel, following in the footsteps of Holy Mother St. Teresa of Avila. Although uneducated, she was infused with the gifts of the Holy Spirit in a great degree. Rather than focusing on the charisms and phenomena in her life, this Carmelite Conversation focuses on her childhood and gives an
The Holy Trinity, with Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
We frequently pray to and invoke the Holy Trinity, yet the Holy Trinity is a mystery and hard to explain. Although we are quite limited, we can gain some insights into understanding the doctrine of the Holy Trinity as well as pondering “Who” the Holy Trinity is. Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, discusses this mystery and introduces us to Catholic Evangelist Frank Sheed’s approach as well. There is m
St. Joseph the Worker and the Work of Prayer,Deacon Mark Danis, OCDS
The day this was recorded was the first day of May and fell on a Sunday this year. It is also the day we would have been celebrating the feast of St. Joseph the Worker.
Deacon Mark Danis was just recently ordained to the diaconate and this is his first homily given to our Secular Discalced Carmelite community in Dayton, OH.
3 themes are covered:
--St. Joseph the Worker
--the gift of prayer and co
The Church Prepares, Year after Year, for the Anniversary of Her Birth: The Church and the Holy Spirit, with Jean Crowley, OCDS
Pentecost is the birthday of the Church. Secular Discalced Carmelite Jean Crowley peers thru the Carmelite lens at this great time and how the Holy Spirit is acting. Where do absence and silence come into play? What is the great “Silent Absence” and the “Silent Unseen?” Our guest draws us into a perspective we may not have thought about before. She also introduces quotes from our dear Discalc
Pray without Ceasing: Fulfilling the Lord’s Precept through the Liturgy of the Hours ; Part 2, with Marika Zimmerman, OCDS
Guest and Secular Discalced Carmelite Marika Zimmerman joins hostess, Frances Harry, OCDS for a program on the Liturgy of the Hours, the universal prayer of the Church. Part 2 focuses on questions that many people have asked us about the Liturgy of the Hours over the years. There is some sage advice offered and perhaps, a new tip or two for those who have been praying the LOH for years.
Reso
Pray without Ceasing: Fulfilling the Lord’s Precept through the Liturgy of the Hours, with Marika Zimmerman, OCDS
Guest and Secular Discalced Carmelite Marika Zimmerman joins host, Frances Harry, OCDS for a program on the Liturgy of the Hours, the universal prayer of the Church. Highlights from the General Instruction on the Liturgy of the Hours are presented as well as some personal insights, suggestions and practical tips. This is helpful for anyone who prays the Liturgy of the Hours or for those wanting
Personal experiences of suffering, with Frances Harry, OCDS, and Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
We all suffer…but do we suffer well? What a mystery! What does it mean to suffer well? What are the challenges and fears about suffering? What are the gifts and blessings of suffering? What did our Carmelite Saints tell us about suffering? This in person conversation with guest, Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, is really a witness of what he went through and is going through now in his suffering.
Go to Joseph, by Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
The feast of St. Joseph is March 19. After the Blessed Virgin Mary, he is the greatest Saint of all time. This year, 2022, the Knights of Columbus announced the selection of an icon of St. Joseph holding the Child Jesus as the centerpiece of this year’s K of C prayer program. Our Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites was blessed to have a copy of this traveling icon with us during our Holy Hour
Silence…the Language of God (Less is More), by Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
Silence is golden. We have often heard that phrase. Silence is really a deep Bible truth. In this presentation, Deacon Baldwin will address that truth and point out the use of silence in prayer and particularly in the life of contemplatives and the gift of contemplation in prayer. He addresses the questions: “Should I give up all vocal prayer and only strive for silence in prayer?” “What Sc
Saint Teresa of Avila and the Holy Spirit, by Teresa Trygstad, OCDS
As a doctor of the Church, St. Teresa of Avila has much to teach the universal Church and humanity at large. She was quite the mystic. We are so blessed that she wrote so much to help us grow in our union with God. In this presentation by Teresa Trygstad, OCDS, the influence of the Holy Spirit in the life of St. Teresa of Avila is highlighted. Several examples are given that help solidify the
Carmel and the Holy Spirit, by Marika Zimmerman, OCDS
The hidden power source behind our actions in fulfilling our mission as Secular Carmelites in the Church is THE HOLY SPIRIT!!! The Holy Spirit is involved in the Spiritual formation in the life of the Christian: He convicts the world of sin, righteousness and judgment. He gives believers an inward assurance of salvation. It is the Holy Spirit who breathes life into the Church, and it is through th
Living Our Carmelite Vocation through the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary, by Lynn Bete, OCDS
Praying the rosary is a Marian Devotion that many Catholics practice. As a Carmelite, it is a way of learning how to model Mary’s prayer life. In this presentation, our guest, Lynn Bete, a member of the Dayton Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites, gives us a fresh perspective on how to live out our Carmelite vocation through the mysteries of the Rosary. She uses the Joyful Mysteries as an exam
Advent 2021: Where’s God in All That? by Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
Advent is a beautiful time of reminding us to specifically prepare our hearts and wait with expectant hope and longing for the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We look forward to His presence with great joy. It also tends to be a very busy time filled with special activities, tasks and opportunities that can really distract us. How might we approach all of this and still find God in all of
The Holy Trinity, the 7th Mansion, and the Sacrament of Matrimony, byDeacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
The visible material world is only part of God’s gracious creation. The spiritual reality of creation is often overlooked by people in general, however, anyone aspiring to grow in their relationship with God, does well to meditate on these spiritual realities. Deacon Baldwin discusses both describing their distinctness yet inseparability. He addresses who we are in God.
He proceeds to describe
Dealing with Annoyances and Difficult People by Teresa Trygstad, OCDS
Anyone familiar with the writings of St. Therese of the Child Jesus knows that she struggles in dealing with difficult people, both as a young child and as a religious sister. Importantly, she also triumphed in learning how to embrace difficult people. What practical tips would Therese tell us about living with difficult family members, friends, neighbors, or co-workers?
When God Feels Distant…He’s Closer than You Think, by Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS
God Feels Distant. How often have you felt that way or heard another person say that? How is this manifested? Is it normal in the spiritual life? How much are we attributing this to our feelings rather than our intellect? What are some examples of when this happens? How should we respond? What is the purpose of this in the spiritual life? These are some of the questions Deacon Baldwin answ
Ratio Institutionis from The Book of Documents by Colleen Sollinger, OCDS
The Ratio Institutionis is a document found in The Book of Documents used in the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites as found at www.ocdswashprov/store/book. It basically addresses how to put the Carmelite charism into practice in our daily lives. It guides us in living out our Carmelite calling.
The Ratio presents the purpose or philosophy behind a program of formation for the members of the
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