The Way of the Carmelites

Book excerpt: For Carmelites, prayer is friendship with God in a silent communion of love. By fixing our eyes on the vulnerability of Jesus and on his unrequited love for us, we are transformed. For a life permeated by closeness to him, contemplation becomes the source of action. This beautifully written book, replete with reflections on the Bible, is a spiritual companion and guide for Lent – and the rest of the year – that will introduce readers to the riches of the Carmelite tradition. It also includes questions at the end of each chapter that enable us to follow the profound and practical way of the Carmelites. ‘This book . . . [allows] the gentle light of Carmel’s wisdom to bring insight to our own dark nights.’ Margaret Silf, author and retreat facilitator ‘In a world marked by division and uncertainty . . . too many hearts are beset by lingering weakness and unhealed wounds . . . God beckons with silence . . . Father McCaffrey poignantly captures this spiritual adventure.’ Monsignor Joseph Reilly, Rector and Dean of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology ‘Scholarly and practical, humble yet brilliant. I warmly commend it.’ Professor Peter Tyler, St Mary’s University, Twickenham, London