Let us walk together, Lord Document of the 92nd OCD General Chapter (Part 4a)- Essential Elements of the Charism

Essential Elements of the Charism

IV. A. The Life of Prayer (21-29)

21. An Experience of Love

In the Teresian experience, love is not merely a sentimental feeling or an emotional attachment. It is a deep, abiding connection with God that is characterized by intimacy, trust, and mutual affection. Teresa of Avila described this experience as a "friendship with God."

For Teresa, friendship with God was not a static state of being, but a dynamic process of growth and deepening intimacy. She believed that God is always seeking to draw us closer to Him and that we can respond to His love by cultivating our own love for Him.

Teresa's writings provide a rich and detailed account of the experience of friendship with God. She describes the various stages of this journey, from the initial spark of love to the deep union that is possible in the mystical state. She also offers practical advice on how to cultivate this friendship, such as through prayer, meditation, and acts of service.

One of the key aspects of friendship with God, according to Teresa, is the experience of God's presence. She describes this presence as a "sweetness" or "delight" that fills the soul. She also speaks of the experience of God's love as a "burning fire" that consumes the heart.

Another important aspect of friendship with God is the experience of God's mercy. Teresa writes that God is always ready to forgive us and to embrace us with His love, no matter how many times we fall. She also speaks of the importance of humility and self-surrender in cultivating this friendship.

The experience of friendship with God can be transformative. It can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself, of others, and of the world. It can also lead to a greater capacity for love, joy, and peace.

Teresa's writings on friendship with God have inspired countless people throughout the centuries. Her insights into the nature of love and the relationship between God and humanity continue to be relevant today.

22. Seeking God and not oneself.

Seeking God and not oneself is at the heart of the Teresian Carmelite experience. St. Teresa of Avila taught that the goal of the spiritual life is to grow in union with God. This union is not a mere intellectual understanding or emotional attachment, but a deep, personal relationship of love and intimacy.

Teresa believed that the first step in seeking God is to detach oneself from oneself. This means letting go of self-interest, pride, and vanity, and turning one's heart and mind towards God. It also means developing a deep humility and acknowledging one's own sinfulness and need for God's forgiveness.

Once one has detached oneself from oneself, one can begin to seek God in prayer and meditation. Teresa taught that prayer is a conversation with God and that meditation is a way of contemplating God's love and mercy. She also encouraged her followers to engage in acts of service, as a way of showing love for God and for others.

The path to union with God is not always easy. There will be times of dryness and spiritual desolation when it feels like God is far away. But Teresa taught that these times are also opportunities for growth, as they teach us to rely on God's grace and not on our own strength.

Those who persevere in seeking God and not themselves will eventually find what they are looking for. Teresa describes union with God as a state of perfect love and peace, in which the soul is completely united with God. This union is the ultimate goal of the spiritual life, and it is the culmination of a life of love and service.

The Teresian Carmelite experience of seeking God and not oneself is a call to all Christians. It is a call to live a life of love, humility, and service, and to seek union with God in all that we do.

23. Friendship with God as a permanent State

In the Teresian Carmelite experience, friendship with God is not just a fleeting emotion or a temporary state of grace, but a permanent state of living in the presence of God. This means being constantly aware of God's love and presence, and living in a way that is pleasing to Him.

Saint Teresa of Avila, believed that true friendship with God is based on mutual love, intimacy, and trust. She taught that we are called to cultivate this friendship through prayer, meditation, acts of service, and a life of humility and obedience.

There are many benefits to living in a state of permanent friendship with God. These benefits include:

·      Deep peace and joy: Friendship with God brings a deep sense of peace and joy that is not dependent on external circumstances.

·      Guidance and support: God is always available to guide us and support us through the ups and downs of life.

·      Strength and courage: Friendship with God gives us the strength and courage to face challenges and overcome obstacles.

·      A sense of purpose and meaning: Friendship with God helps us to see the meaning and purpose in our lives.

The journey of friendship with God is a lifelong journey. There will be times when we feel closer to God than at other times. But if we are persistent, we will eventually experience the joy of living in God's presence permanently.

Quotes about friendship with God from Saint Teresa of Avila:

·      "Let us strive to enter into this castle of the soul, which is a place of delight, where the King dwells, and where we may enjoy His company."

·      "The soul that is in friendship with God is like a garden watered by the living streams of His grace."

·      "The soul that is in friendship with God is like a bird that flies from one branch to another, always seeking the highest and best."

·      "The soul that is in friendship with God is like a fire that burns brightly, always giving light and warmth."

·      "The soul that is in friendship with God is like a mirror that reflects the beauty of His face."

Friendship with God is a precious gift that is available to all who seek it. If we are willing to put in the effort, we can experience the joy of living in God's presence every day of our lives.

24. Listening to the Word

            "Listening to the Word" is a central theme in the Teresian Carmelite tradition. For Teresa of Avila, the Word of God was not just a text to be read or studied, but a living person to be heard and obeyed. She believed that the best way to listen to the Word was to cultivate a deep interior silence, in which we could hear God's voice speaking to our hearts. Teresa taught that there are three main ways to listen to the Word of God:

·      Through prayer: Prayer is a conversation with God, and it is through prayer that we can hear His voice speaking to us.

·      Through meditation: Meditation is a way of focusing our minds on God's Word and allowing it to penetrate our hearts.

·      Through reading and studying the Bible: The Bible is God's word to us, and it is through the Bible that we can learn more about Him and His ways.

Teresa also taught that listening to the Word is not just a passive activity. We must also be willing to respond to God's Word by acting on it. This means living our lives according to God's will, and following His commandments.

The Teresian Carmelite tradition of listening to the Word is a powerful way to deepen our relationship with God. It is a tradition that is based on love, trust, and obedience. When we listen to the Word, we open ourselves up to the transformative power of God's love. Some of the benefits of listening to the Word:

·      Deeper peace and joy: When we listen to the Word, we are filled with God's peace and joy.

·      Guidance and support: God is always there to guide and support us when we listen to His Word.

·      Strength and courage: Listening to the Word gives us the strength and courage to face challenges and overcome obstacles.

·      A sense of purpose and meaning: When we listen to the Word, we find a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.

·      A closer relationship with God: Listening to the Word is the best way to deepen our relationship with God.

25. The Community that prays

In the Carmelite religious life, community plays a vital role in the spiritual journey of each member. Carmelites believe that they are called to live in the community to support and encourage one another in their pursuit of God. The community is a place where Carmelites can share their experiences, pray together, and grow in their faith.

Prayer plays a powerful role in the Carmelite religious life, and the community that prays together is a central element of this tradition. Carmelites believe that prayer is a way to communicate with God and that it is essential for their spiritual growth. They also believe that praying together strengthens their bonds as a community and helps them to support one another.

Carmelites pray together at various times throughout the day, including in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. They also pray the Liturgy of the Hours, a set of prayers that are said at regular intervals throughout the day. Carmelites also pray spontaneously, and they may pray for specific needs or intentions.

In addition to praying together, Carmelites also pray alone. They may pray in their cells, in the chapel, or in nature. They may use prayer books or pray spontaneously. Carmelites believe that prayer is a personal and intimate conversation with God, and they value the solitude that allows them to focus on their relationship with Him.

Praying in the community is an important part of the Carmelite religious life. It helps Carmelites to grow in their faith, to support one another, and to deepen their relationship with God. Praying in the community can also be a source of great joy and comfort. Carmelites find strength and support in their fellow Carmelites, and they know that they are not alone in their spiritual journey. We have many benefits of Praying in the community, some benefits are,

Strengthens bonds: Praying together strengthens the bonds between Carmelites and helps them to create a supportive community.

Deepens faith: Praying together deepens the faith of Carmelites and helps them to grow in their relationship with God.

Provides comfort: Praying together provides comfort and support to Carmelites during difficult times.

The Carmelite community is a place where each member can grow in their relationship with God. Carmelites support one another in their prayer life, offer guidance and encouragement, and celebrate each other's successes. The community is a source of strength and comfort for Carmelites as they journey towards God.

26. Mental Prayer

Mental prayer, also known as interior prayer or contemplation, is a central aspect of the Carmelite spiritual tradition. It is a way of approaching God through the use of the intellect, imagination, and will. The goal of mental prayer is to deepen one's relationship with God and to become more aware of His presence in one's life.

Mental prayer is not the same as intellectual reflection. It is not about analyzing or dissecting religious concepts. Rather, it is about entering into a personal relationship with God. It is about opening one's heart to God and allowing His love to transform one's life. There are many different methods of mental prayer, but they all share the common goal of helping the person to focus on God. Some common methods include:

·      Lectio Divina: This method involves reading a passage of Scripture slowly and attentively, reflecting on its meaning, and praying for its application to one's life.

·      Meditation: This method involves focusing on a particular thought, image, or Scripture verse, and allowing it to fill one's mind and heart.

·      Contemplation: This method is a state of deep prayer in which the person is completely absorbed in God.

Mental prayer is a lifelong journey. It takes time, effort, and perseverance to develop a deep and fruitful prayer life. However, the rewards of mental prayer are great. It can lead to a deeper relationship with God, a greater sense of peace and joy, and a more fulfilling life. Some tips for developing a habit of mental prayer:

·      Set aside a specific time each day for prayer.

·      Find a quiet place where you can be alone with God.

·      Begin by reading a passage of Scripture or reflecting on a particular thought or image.

·      Allow your mind and heart to be drawn to God.

·      Don't worry if your mind wanders. Simply bring your attention back to God as gently as possible.

·      Be patient with yourself. It takes time to develop a deep prayer life.

Mental prayer is a gift from God. It is a way of entering into a deeper relationship with Him and experiencing His love in a more profound way.

27. Solitude and Silence       

Solitude and silence are two essential elements of the Carmelite spiritual tradition. For Carmelites, these practices are not merely about being alone or quiet; they are about creating an environment conducive to prayer, contemplation, and union with God.

·      Solitude

Solitude is the practice of being alone, either physically or emotionally. For Carmelites, solitude is not about isolation or loneliness; it is about creating the space and freedom necessary for a deep relationship with God. In solitude, Carmelites are able to focus their attention on God without distractions from the outside world. They are also able to become more aware of their own thoughts, feelings, and desires, and to discern God's will for their lives.

There are many different ways to practice solitude. Some Carmelites live in monasteries or convents, where they have the opportunity to be alone for extended periods of time. Others live in smaller communities or in the world, but they still make time for regular solitude. No matter how they practice it, Carmelites believe that solitude is essential for their spiritual growth.

·      Silence

Silence is the practice of refraining from speaking or making noise. For Carmelites, silence is not just about the absence of sound; it is about creating an atmosphere of stillness and peace. In silence, Carmelites are able to listen to God's voice and to experience His presence more deeply. They are also able to cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility.

There are many different ways to practice silence. Some Carmelites observe periods of silence throughout the day, while others observe silence for longer periods of time. Carmelites also practice silence during prayer and meditation. No matter how they practice it, Carmelites believe that silence is essential for their spiritual growth.

Together, solitude and silence create an environment in which Carmelites can:

·  Grow in their relationship with God.

·  Become more aware of their own thoughts, feelings, and desires.

·  Discern God's will for their lives.

·  Cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquillity.

·  Experience God's presence more deeply.

While solitude and silence may seem daunting at first, they are essential elements of the Carmelite spiritual tradition. By embracing solitude and silence, Carmelites are able to create a life that is focused on God and that is filled with peace, joy, and love.

28. Detachment

Detachment is a central concept in the Carmelite spiritual tradition. It is the practice of letting go of our attachment to worldly things and focusing on our relationship with God. Detachment is not about denying ourselves pleasure or avoiding worldly pursuits altogether. It is about recognizing that these things are not ultimate sources of happiness and fulfillment, and that true happiness and fulfilment come only from God.

There are many ways to practice detachment. Some common methods include:

• Simple living: This involves reducing our possessions and simplifying our lifestyle in order to focus on what is truly important.
• Generosity: This involves giving away our time, money, and talents to help others.
• Service: This involves using our skills and abilities to help others in need.
• Gratitude: This involves taking time to appreciate the good things in our lives.
• Contentment: This involves being satisfied with what we have, rather than always wanting more.

Detachment is not an easy thing to do. It requires us to let go of things that we may be very attached to. However, the rewards of detachment are great. It can lead to a deeper relationship with God, a greater sense of peace and contentment, and a more fulfilling life.

Some tips for practising detachment in our life:

• Start by identifying the things that you are most attached to.
• Reflect on how these attachments are affecting your life.
• Make a conscious decision to let go of these attachments.
• Seek support from others who are also practising detachment.
• Be patient with yourself. It takes time to develop a detached lifestyle.

Detachment is a lifelong journey. It is not something that we can achieve overnight. However, it is a journey that is worth taking. Detachment can lead to a life that is filled with peace, joy, and love.

Detachment is a recurring theme in the writings of the Carmelite saints. For them, detachment is not merely about giving up material possessions or external attachments. It is about letting go of everything that stands in the way of a deep and personal relationship with God.

Detachment can be a difficult and challenging process. It requires us to let go of our own desires, ambitions, and fears. It also requires us to confront our own sinfulness and need for God's forgiveness. However, the rewards of detachment are great. It can lead to a deeper relationship with God, a greater sense of peace and joy, and a more fulfilling life.

The Carmelite saints offer a variety of insights into the nature of detachment. Saint Teresa of Avila, for example, teaches that detachment is not about "fleeing the world" but about "living in the world without being of the world." She also teaches that detachment is not about "mortification" but about "transformation."

Saint John of the Cross, another Carmelite saint, teaches that detachment is a process of "purification" that leads to "union" with God. He also teaches that detachment is not about "annihilation" but about "transformation."

The Carmelite saints offer a variety of practical advice for cultivating detachment. They encourage us to pray regularly, to meditate on the Scriptures, and to practice acts of service. They also encourage us to be humble and to avoid seeking worldly pleasures.

29. Passion for God

Passion for God is a central aspect of the Carmelite spiritual tradition. For Carmelites, passion is not just an emotion; it is a way of life. It is a deep and abiding love for God that motivates everything they do.

Carmelites believe that passion for God is essential for a fulfilling life. They believe that God created us to be in a relationship with Him and that we can only find true happiness when we are living following His will.

There are many different ways to express passion for God. Some Carmelites express their passion through prayer, contemplation, and meditation. Others express their passion through acts of service, such as feeding the poor, clothing the naked, and caring for the sick. Still others express their passion through art, music, and literature.

No matter how they express it, Carmelites believe that passion for God is a gift from God. It is a gift that should be cherished and nurtured.

Passion for God is a lifelong journey. There will be times when we feel closer to God than at other times. However, Carmelites believe that passion for God is a gift that is worth pursuing. It is a gift that can lead us to a life of love, joy, and peace.

Passion for God can be a source of great joy and strength for religious community members. It can help them to overcome challenges, find meaning and purpose in their lives, and to live in a way that is consistent with their values. It can also help them to build strong relationships with others and to make a positive impact on the world.

If you are looking to deepen your own passion for God, there are a few things you can do. First, it is important to spend time in prayer and contemplation. This will help you to connect with God on a deeper level and to experience His love. Second, find ways to serve others. This could involve volunteering your time, donating to charity, or simply being kind and compassionate to those around you. Finally, surround yourself with people who share your passion for God. This could involve the activities of the religious community, participating in a Bible study, or simply spending time with the community members who share your beliefs through their recreations. (To be Continued)

                                                                                                         Prepared by 
                                                                                                       Fr. Nicholas Macedon OCD