Carmelite Conversations

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 by expounding upon the true meaning of the “Dark Night of the Soul” and the call to a deeper intimacy and love of our Lord.  

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.  

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.

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.

In this homily, Deacon Rusty Baldwin, OCDS, discusses the true meaning of joy and how the Carmelite saints viewed joy.