Christian Mysticism, The Brown Scapular & The Little Way (Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris) | Ep.500

22 snips

Dec 12, 2024

Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris, O.C.D., is a Discalced Carmelite priest with deep insights into St. Thérèse of Lisieux. He discusses the transformative journey toward Carmelite spirituality, highlighting the scapular's significance and its role in trust and protection. The conversation touches on the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in religious life, as well as the pivotal contributions of women like St. Teresa. Their exploration of humility, spiritual literature, and the relatable struggles of saints enriches the understanding of faith and personal transformation.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Books

Transcript

Episode notes

ANECDOTE

Fr. Paris's Carmelite Calling

Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris was a diocesan priest for five years.
He then discerned a Carmelite vocation, surprising himself.

ANECDOTE

Confirmation of Calling

Fr. Paris feared his interest in Carmel might be temporary.
A surprise gift of a Carmelite vestment affirmed his calling.

INSIGHT

Carmelite Origins

The Carmelites trace their origins to the prophet Elijah on Mount Carmel.
Their spirituality emphasizes prayer and devotion to Mary.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

Fire Within

Thomas Dubé

Story of a Soul

Therese of Lisieux

This autobiography, written by St. Thérèse of Lisieux, is a spiritual memoir that includes her childhood, her life in the Carmelite convent, and her final days. The book is divided into three parts, each written at different times and for different recipients. It details her 'Little Way' of making small efforts to please God and her experiences with faith, suffering, and her vision of heavenly life. The book has been translated into many languages and is considered one of the top 10 spiritual books of the 20th century[3][5].

Becoming Fire

Ken Barker

The Brothers Karamazov

Larissa Volokhonsky

Fyodor Dostoevsky

Richard Pevear

Set in 19th-century Russia, 'The Brothers Karamazov' is a novel that delves into the lives of the Karamazov family, focusing on the three brothers—Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha—and their complex relationships with their father, Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov. The novel is a murder mystery, a courtroom drama, and an exploration of erotic rivalry, faith, doubt, and reason. It examines the human psyche, moral dilemmas, and the search for meaning in a world fraught with suffering and uncertainty. The story revolves around the murder of Fyodor Pavlovich and the subsequent trial of Dmitri, accused of the crime, while exploring deeper themes of Russian life, social and spiritual striving, and the clash between faith and reason[2][5][4].

The life of St. Teresa of Avila

including the relations of her spiritual state

St Teresa of Avila

The Life of St. Teresa of Avila is an autobiographical account of her life and spiritual journey. It details her early life, her conversion experience, and her founding of the Discalced Carmelite order. Teresa's writings are characterized by their profound insights into the mystical life and their practical advice on prayer and spiritual growth. The Life offers a compelling narrative of a woman who dedicated her life to God and to the reform of the Carmelite order. Her work continues to inspire and challenge readers to seek a deeper relationship with God.

The Practice of the Presence of God

Brother Lawrence (Nicolas Herman)

This book is a collection of Brother Lawrence's teachings, including his conversations and letters, which emphasize the importance of maintaining a constant awareness of God's presence. Brother Lawrence learned to find God in all his daily tasks, whether he was working in the kitchen or repairing sandals. He advocated for a simple and direct approach to living in God's presence, stressing that all work can be done as an act of love for God. The book includes his maxims and letters that provide practical advice on how to advance in the spiritual life and maintain a deep sense of God's presence in all activities.

The Dark Knight of the Soul

Kirk Thompson