Presented by: Dr. Angie Neumann
Location: St. Peter’s, 1405 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Mendota
Note: You can sign up for all three events or just those that work for your schedule.
This summer series introduces participants to the wisdom of John of the Cross, particularly navigating the tumultuous beginnings of contemplative prayer. Designed for those discerning their own path and for those accompanying others as well, this series aims to illuminate both the theological depth and pastoral realism of John’s teaching.
Drawing from his major works—especially The Ascent of Mount Carmel, The Dark Night, and the Living Flame of Love—we will explore how God leads the soul from meditative effort into infused contemplation, with special attention to navigating common pitfalls and accompanying trials.
- Part I (June) considers why this transition is important and that it is not rare but common! It looks to signs that invite a simpler, more receptive way of prayer, beginning with the moral life as impetus for purification.
- Part II (July) examines purification and the so-called “dark night,” distinguishing spiritual dryness from discouragement, Ignatian desolation, and depression.
- Part III (August) turns to the transforming union toward which contemplation tends, offering pastoral and practical guidance for sustaining fidelity in prayer and how not to get discouraged when prayer becomes beguilingly simple (and distracted!).