Catholic mendicant religious order
POPULARITY
Categories
Full Text of ReadingsSaturday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 412The Saint of the day is Saint Teresa Benedicta of the CrossSaint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross' Story A brilliant philosopher who stopped believing in God when she was 14, Edith Stein was so captivated by reading the autobiography of Teresa of Avila that she began a spiritual journey that led to her baptism in 1922. Twelve years later she imitated Saint Teresa by becoming a Carmelite, taking the name Teresa Benedicta of the Cross. Born into a prominent Jewish family in Breslau, Germany—now Wroclaw, Poland—Edith abandoned Judaism in her teens. As a student at the University of Göttingen, she became fascinated by phenomenology–an approach to philosophy. Excelling as a protégé of Edmund Husserl, one of the leading phenomenologists, Edith earned a doctorate in philosophy in 1916. She continued as a university teacher until 1922, when she moved to a Dominican school in Speyer; her appointment as lecturer at the Educational Institute of Munich ended under pressure from the Nazis. After living for four years in the Cologne Carmel, Sister Teresa Benedicta moved to the Carmelite monastery in Echt, Netherlands, in 1938. The Nazis occupied that country in 1940. In retaliation for being denounced by the Dutch bishops, the Nazis arrested all Dutch Jews who had become Christians. Teresa Benedicta and her sister Rosa, also a Catholic, died in a gas chamber in Auschwitz on August 9, 1942. Pope John Paul II beatified Teresa Benedicta of the Cross in 1987 and canonized her 12 years later. Reflection The writings of Edith Stein fill 17 volumes, many of which have been translated into English. A woman of integrity, she followed the truth wherever it led her. After becoming a Catholic, Edith continued to honor her mother's Jewish faith. Sister Josephine Koeppel, O.C.D., translator of several of Edith's books, sums up this saint with the phrase, “Learn to live at God's hands.” Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross is a Patron Saint of: Converts to ChristianityEurope Learn more about Saint Benedicta of the Cross! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
We live in a time when many people believe that the existence of God is unknowable, that human reason is incapable of knowing whether God exists or that God does not exist. This is not something new. Edith Stein, the towering intellectual saint and martyr the Church honors today, lost her faith in God during her teenage years, despite being brought up in a devout Jewish home. She was the youngest of eleven children. Her widowed mother encouraged all her children to think critically and encouraged them in their studies. Edith's studies were interrupted by World War I. She became a volunteer nurse at an infectious disease hospital in her home town in Germany. Confronting the suffering of her patients must have been a major factor in choosing the topic of empathy for her doctoral thesis. Even with graduating summa cum laude from the University of Freiburg, she was denied a teaching certificate due to her gender. Instead, Edith became a teaching assistant to her university professor, the renowned philosopher and mathematician, Edmund Husserl. . Edith was constantly writing and studying, but it was not until she read the autobiography of St. Teresa of Avila that her life changed dramatically. She was moved to convert to Catholicism and, eventually, to enter into the convent of the Discalced Carmelites. She took the name, St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, honoring her patron saint. Her sister, Rosa, also converted and became a tertiary of the Carmelites, living outside the convent, but assisting the sisters in their mission. During the turbulent years of World War II, the leadership of the Carmelites grew concerned for the safety of St. Teresa Benedicta and her sister. They transferred them from Cologne to the Netherlands, thinking that their Jewish backgrounds would not under as much scrutiny. Soon after their transfer, however, the Dutch bishops wrote a strongly worded public letter condemning the abuses of the Nazi regime. Edith Stein also wrote a letter to Pope Pius XI, pleading that Pope must make a similar public statement against the Nazis. It is not known whether the Pope read the letter or not. It was not long after the Dutch bishops letter that the Gestapo rounded up 244 people of Jewish descent in the Netherlands, including Sister Teresa Benedicta of the Cross and her sister, Rosa. They were sent to Auschwitz and murdered just a week later in the gas chambers, probably on August 9th, 1942. In a statement to her Carmelite superiors, Edith wrote: “I beg the Lord to take my life and my death…as atonement for the unbelief of the Jewish People, and that the Lord will be received by his own people and his kingdom shall come in glory, for the salvation of Germany and the peace of the world…” Even after her arrest, she was offered an escape plan, but refused, stating: “If somebody intervened at this point and took away (her) chance to share in the fate of (her) brothers and sisters, that would be utter annihilation.” The writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross fill 17 volumes. A woman of integrity, she followed the truth wherever it led. She was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1999 and is one of six patrons saints of Europe. St. Teresa Benedicta, pray for us. Blessings, Fr. Kevin MacDonald, C.Ss.R.
Saturday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, 1891-1942; brilliant philosopher from a Jewish family, she stopped believing in God at age 14; but the autobiography of St. Teresa so captivated Edith Stein that it led her to baptism in 1922; twelve years later, she became a Carmelite nun, taking the name, Teresa Benedicta of the Cross; she spent four years in the Cologne Carmel, and then moved to the Carmel in Echt, Netherlands; the Nazis occupied that country in 1940; they arrested all Jews who had become Christians; Teresa Benedicta and her sister Rosa--who was also Catholic--died in a gas chamber at Auschwitz in 1942 Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/9/25 Gospel: Matthew 17:14-20
In this thought-provoking episode, we welcome Christopher Rogers, whose recent Catholic Exchange article, "Our Constrained 21st Century American 'God'," challenges us to break free from a cultural reimagining of God that minimizes His sovereignty and grace. Chris reminds us of a central truth: salvation is not automatic—it is a gift offered through grace, one we must remember and respond to daily. Chris is also the author of Virtual Eternity: An Epic 90s-Retro Florida Techno Pro-life Love Story and Conversion Journey, a powerful novel weaving together themes of love, loss, abortion, and redemption, set against the backdrop of 1990s culture. He brings deep insight shaped by his work in engineering, his Catholic faith, and his role as a husband, father, teacher, and Carmelite. To learn more about Chris and read the full article visit: https://catholicexchange.com/our-constrained-21st-century-american-god/
Episode 185 - Special guest Geralyn Rea is back on the podcast to discuss the inspiring life of Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, better known as Edith Stein. In this episode, Nathanael Rea and his wife Geralyn explore Edith Stein's journey from a brilliant academic to a Carmelite nun, her profound insights on femininity, and her enduring legacy as a spiritual mother. Discover how her writings continue to influence and inspire, even in the face of adversity.
In this episode, the monthly series called “What Are the Sisters Reading?” continues. For the month of August, Sister Kathryn Hermes, FSP, shares about a book called "The Selected Poetry of Jessica Powers," an anthology of poetry by a Carmelite nun who has been hailed as one of America's greatest religious poets. To check out more books on the Catholic faith and religious items of interest at the Pauline Books and Media Center at 1025 King Street in Alexandria, please click here.
In this episode, Fr. Steven shares about his latest academic adventure — beginning work toward an STL (Licentiate in Sacred Theology) in the New Evangelization at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. What exactly is an STL? Why go back to school now? And what does the New Evangelization even mean in a world that often seems tired of religion?Fr. Steven unpacks the structure of the program, the classes he's diving into this semester — Theology of the New Evangelization, Carmelite Spirituality, and Vatican II — and what he hopes to carry from the classroom into the pulpit, the parish, and beyond.Whether you're a theology nerd or just wondering what "Carmelite spirituality" even is, this episode offers a great look at the intersection of faith, study, and mission.
Full Text of ReadingsSeventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 111The Saint of the day is Saint Titus BrandsmaSaint Titus Brandsma's Story Given the birth name Anno, Brandsma and his siblings grew up on their parents' dairy farm in rural Frisia. As devout Catholics, the family was in the minority among their Calvinist neighbors. From age 11 Anno was educated at a preparatory school for boys who were studying for the priesthood. He joined the Carmelite novitiate in 1898, taking the name Titus in honor of his father. In the years following his 1905 ordination, Brandsma received a doctorate in philosophy and initiated a project to translate the works of Saint Teresa of Avila into Dutch. One of the founders of the Catholic University of Nijmegen, he served as a professor of philosophy and the history of mysticism at the school. While there Brandsma was known more for his availability to faculty and students than for his academic achievements. Working as a journalist Brandsma served as ecclesiastical advisor to Catholic journalists. His long-standing opposition to Nazi ideology came to the attention of the Nazis when they invaded the Netherlands in 1940. In direct opposition to the Third Reich, the Conference of Dutch Bishops sent a letter ordering Catholic newspaper editors not to print Nazi propaganda. Fr. Brandsma was arrested while hand delivering the letter in January 1942. After being imprisoned in several other facilities, in June he was taken to the Dachau camp in Germany. During his brief time at Dachau Fr. Brandsma was well-known for his kindness and spiritual support of other prisoners. His death on July 26, 1942 was a result of the Reich's program of medical experimentation on prisoners. He gave a wooden rosary to the nurse who administered the fatal injection; she later became Catholic and testified to his holiness. In recent years Brandsma has been honored by both the cities of Nijmegen and Dachau. Titus Brandsma was beatified in 1985, and canonized in 2022. Reflection Conscience often creates martyrs. That was the case for Titus Brandsma. Many people “go along to get along,” not realizing that by doing so they are destroying themselves internally. In his homily at the canonization Mass Pope Francis said, “Holiness does not consist of a few heroic gestures, but of many small acts of daily love.” Saint Titus Brandsma is a patron saint of: Catholic journalistsFrieslandInternational Union of Catholic EsperantistsTobacconists Read: Touched by Death, Healed by the Catholic Saints Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
Waiting on the Mountain: Trusting God's Time with Mary and Elijah Today's Homily occurs on the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel . . . . . . and explores the deep spiritual symbolism of the mountain . . . specifically Mount Carmel . . . and how it relates to faith, patience, prayer, and transformation. The mountain is more than geography; it's a spiritual summit, a place of ascent where prophets like Elijah wait in vigilant hope for God's quiet, powerful action. After his victory over idolatry, Elijah climbs higher . . . not for glory, but to wait for the Lord's rain, a symbol of restoration that comes only through perseverance and trust. This patient expectation mirrors the Carmelite tradition, where Saints Teresa of Ávila and John of the Cross teach that real prayer is not about many words, but about aligning oneself with the will of God. The Homily connects this to Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, who is both a model and a “mountain” of receptivity to God's Word. Jesus highlights her true greatness not her physical motherhood, but her hearing and doing the will of God. In this feast, we are called to spiritual ascent . . . through character, devotion, and trust . . . in Mary's school of holiness. At Mass, this spiritual climb finds its summit in the Eucharist, where we behold the Lamb of God and receive the ocean of divine grace. Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to: Waiting on the Mountain: Trusting God's Time with Mary and Elijah ------------------------------------------------------------ Quote from the Homily Their recommendation is a much more powerful and much more fundamental thing. Seek to do the will of God, period. At first glance, that sounds like we're replacing praying with doing, but to do the will of God, one must know it. To do the will of God, one must desire it. To do the will of God, one must seek it. Let's note the power of the advice. Let your heart seek not its own way. Let it seek the way of the Lord. Let not your heart aspire after its own ambitions. Let your heart seek out what the Lord desires for you. And the more one begins to do that, what happens is one surrenders himself; one surrenders herself to the Lord in a way that saying, many prayers never get us to because of the issue. The issue in the spiritual life is not so much praying as it is belonging. One belongs to the Lord and to really belong to the Lord . . . ------------------------------------------------------------ Our Lady of Mount Carmel: Italian Painter: Pietro Novelli: 1641
Bishop Dolan joins us to talk about Sunday's Gospel. Fr. Bradley Peterson will introduce us to Carmelite priest and martyr, Fr. Titus Brandsma and we'll also hear from a Gretchen Crowe, Carol Zimmerman and J. D. Long-Garcia on sharing Catholic news. You'll also get up to date on the latest news and events. Special thanks to Catholic Cemeteries and Funeral Homes for making this show possible.
What if the most powerful way to change the world… is to stop and be still? In this week's homily for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Meyer reflects on the Gospel of Martha and Mary—and shares a personal story that forever changed his understanding of real work. From a freezing night in Minnesota to the spiritual depths of Carmelite prayer, Fr. Meyer invites us to discover what it truly means to choose “the better part.” At the heart of this message is an invitation:
The History of the Brown Scapular Way back in the 1200s, in Aylesford Priory, England... St. Simon Stock, a Carmelite monk, had this famous encounter: Our Lady of Mount Carmel appeared to him and showed him the Brown Scapular. For religious folks, the scapular is part of their habit. For laypeople, it’s the mini version: two little squares of cloth, connected by strings, worn under your clothes. Important to remember: Wearing it is not a magic ticket to heaven. Patrick really hammers this home. What’s the Point of Wearing It? Patrick explains it this way: It’s like a wedding ring.→ The ring doesn’t literally make you married, but it’s an outward sign of an inward reality. The scapular is an outward sign that you’re asking Our Lady to pray for you, to help you love Jesus more, and to remind yourself to live for God. The Big Misunderstanding There’s a lot of rumors floating around:“If you wear the Brown Scapular, you’re guaranteed heaven.”"You’ll skip purgatory and go straight up the Saturday after you die!” Patrick is super clear here: -The Church does not teach that. -There’s no record of Our Lady promising that to St. Simon Stock. - Patrick says that salvation depends on dying in a state of grace, loving God, repenting from sin, not on religious accessories. Why Still Wear It, Then? Because: -It’s a beautiful sign of devotion to Mary. -It reminds you daily to love God and neighbor. -Our Lady does intercede for those who ask. -It helps you stay close to Jesus, but it’s not a magic amulet. Bonus: Does Patrick Wear It 24/7? Yep... under his shirt, like most folks.He takes it off for showers or swimming (no, you’re not spiritually vulnerable if it’s not on — again, not magic!). Bottom Line (aka “What You Tell Your Friends”) The Brown Scapular is:-A beautiful, centuries-old Marian devotion.-A reminder to live for Jesus.-Not a spiritual hack or shortcut to bypass repentance and grace. Love Our Lady, trust in her prayers, and keep your eyes on Jesus.
How do we go from seasons of divine purpose to a path marked by despair? Pastor Dave invites us to delve deep into the story of Ahithophel, a man whose life spiraled from being a revered oracle of God to one consumed by bitterness and grief. In this enlightening sermon, Pastor examines 2 Samuel 16-17, highlighting how Ahithophel, once sought for his wise counsel, succumbed to a bitter heart after witnessing the sins of King David against his family. His tragic end serves as a striking reminder of the silent, destructive power of unforgiveness. Pastor Dave passionately underscores that the bitterness we carry not only affects our spiritual journey but ultimately robs us of our destiny, urging the congregation to self-reflect on their own grievances. Are you carrying bitterness that prevents you from fulfilling your purpose? This poignant message resonates deeply with anyone struggling to let go of past hurts, offering hope and guidance towards forgiveness. Join us on this transformative journey of healing and freedom, and don't miss the chance to receive the wisdom that could set you free. Watch or listen to the full sermon today and take the first step toward liberation!2 Samuel 16:23 Now the advice of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was as if one had inquired at the oracle of God. So was all the advice of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.2 Samuel 17:23 Now when Ahithophel saw that his advice was not followed, he saddled a donkey, and arose and went home to his house, to his city. Then he put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died; and he was buried in his father's tomb.2 Samuel 11:11 It happened in the spring of the year, at the time when kings go out to battle, that David sent Joab and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the people of Ammon and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem.2 Then it happened one evening that David arose from his bed and walked on the roof of the king's house. And from the roof he saw a woman bathing, and the woman was very beautiful to behold. 3 So David sent and inquired about the woman. And someone said, “Is this not [a]Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?” 4 Then David sent messengers, and took her; and she came to him, and he lay with her, for she was cleansed from her impurity; and she returned to her house. 5 And the woman conceived; so she sent and told David, and said, “I am with child.”Vs 27 after Bathsheba mourned David took her in his house and married herAnd this displeased the lord what David had done2 Samuel 11:3 So David sent and inquired about the woman. And someone said, “Is this not Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?”2 Samuel 23:34 Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai, the son of the Maachathite, Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite, 35 Hezrai the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,Psalm 51:1 Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your lovingkindness;According to the multitude of Your tender mercies,Blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,And cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions,And my sin is always before me. 4 Against You, You only, have I sinned,And done this evil in Your sight—
How do we go from seasons of divine purpose to a path marked by despair? Pastor Dave invites us to delve deep into the story of Ahithophel, a man whose life spiraled from being a revered oracle of God to one consumed by bitterness and grief. In this enlightening sermon, Pastor examines 2 Samuel 16-17, highlighting how Ahithophel, once sought for his wise counsel, succumbed to a bitter heart after witnessing the sins of King David against his family. His tragic end serves as a striking reminder of the silent, destructive power of unforgiveness. Pastor Dave passionately underscores that the bitterness we carry not only affects our spiritual journey but ultimately robs us of our destiny, urging the congregation to self-reflect on their own grievances. Are you carrying bitterness that prevents you from fulfilling your purpose? This poignant message resonates deeply with anyone struggling to let go of past hurts, offering hope and guidance towards forgiveness. Join us on this transformative journey of healing and freedom, and don't miss the chance to receive the wisdom that could set you free. Watch or listen to the full sermon today and take the first step toward liberation!2 Samuel 16:23 Now the advice of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was as if one had inquired at the oracle of God. So was all the advice of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.2 Samuel 17:23 Now when Ahithophel saw that his advice was not followed, he saddled a donkey, and arose and went home to his house, to his city. Then he put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died; and he was buried in his father's tomb.2 Samuel 11:11 It happened in the spring of the year, at the time when kings go out to battle, that David sent Joab and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the people of Ammon and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem.2 Then it happened one evening that David arose from his bed and walked on the roof of the king's house. And from the roof he saw a woman bathing, and the woman was very beautiful to behold. 3 So David sent and inquired about the woman. And someone said, “Is this not [a]Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?” 4 Then David sent messengers, and took her; and she came to him, and he lay with her, for she was cleansed from her impurity; and she returned to her house. 5 And the woman conceived; so she sent and told David, and said, “I am with child.”Vs 27 after Bathsheba mourned David took her in his house and married herAnd this displeased the lord what David had done2 Samuel 11:3 So David sent and inquired about the woman. And someone said, “Is this not Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?”2 Samuel 23:34 Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai, the son of the Maachathite, Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite, 35 Hezrai the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,Psalm 51:1 Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your lovingkindness;According to the multitude of Your tender mercies,Blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,And cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions,And my sin is always before me. 4 Against You, You only, have I sinned,And done this evil in Your sight—
Thursday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time Saints of the Day: Carmelite Nuns of Compiegne; during the French Revolution, 16 Carmelite nuns were arrested, and sentenced to death; they went to the guillotine in 1794, singing the "Salve Regina" Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 7/17/25 Gospel: Matthew 11:28-30
Curious about the brown scapular? Angela Sealana talks with two Carmelite friars about the history of the Carmelite Order and the meaning behind this special sign of faith. Learn how wearing the brown scapular can help you grow closer to Jesus, deepen your prayer life, and feel more connected to the Church. In this episode, you will: • Discover the origin of the brown scapular. • Learn how wearing the brown scapular differs from a superstition. • Hear what the popes & saints said about wearing it. • Uncover how the brown scapular can help us to live with hope. Continue Your Journey: Guest information and helpful resources. Jewel for the Journey: “...The most genuine form of devotion to the Most Holy Virgin, expressed by the humble sign of the scapular, is the consecration to her Immaculate Heart.” - Pope St. John Paul II Do you like what you hear? Become a Missionary of Hope by sponsoring a week of Journeys of Hope. Click here to get started. Learn more at PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Journeys Help us spread hope! PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Donate
Friends of the Rosary,Today is the Memorial of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the feast day of the Carmelite Order and the Feast of the Scapular.We celebrate worldwide the devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel and her Brown Scapular.This feast was instituted in 1332 and extended to the whole Church by Benedict XIII in 1726.In the twelfth century, a group of hermits living on Mount Carmel was organized into the Carmelite order devoted to the contemplative life under the patronage of Mary, the holy Mother of God.The Carmelites were still under constant harassment, and the sixth General of the Order, St. Simon Stock, pleaded with the Blessed Virgin for some special sign of her protection. On July 16, 1251, she designated the scapular as the special mark of her maternal love.Today, the scapular is a distinctive feature of the Carmelites, and lay persons also wear this sacramental object, enjoy the graces associated with it, and do so as a sign of their devotion to Our Lady.The Brown Scapular object is an expression of our belief that we will meet God in eternal life, aided by the intercession and prayer of Mary.Today, in New York City's East Harlem, is one of the oldest festivals in America dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Additionally, Williamsburg in Brooklyn, NY, hosts the annual Festival of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and St. Paulinus of Nola (Festa Del Giglio).Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• July 16, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
7/16/25 - St. Simon Stock was a 13th-century English Carmelite friar whose life helped shape the future of the Carmelite Order during a critical time of transition from the deserts of Mount Carmel to the cities of Europe. Born in Kent and said to have lived as a hermit in the hollow of a tree (earning him the name “Stock”), he was known for his deep asceticism and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 1251, according to tradition, the Virgin appeared to him in Aylesford, England, and gave him the Brown Scapular, with the promise that “those who die wearing it shall not suffer eternal fire.” This vision sparked widespread Marian devotion and established the scapular as one of the most beloved sacramentals in the Church. Through his leadership, mystical experiences, and enduring spiritual influence, St. Simon Stock remains a model of Carmelite spirituality rooted in humility, prayer, and total trust in Our Lady.
Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris joins Patrick for his debut to discuss Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Brown Scapular (4:32) What is the spirituality of the Carmelites? What makes our lady of mount Carmel different than other titles of Mary? (12:41) What is a sacramental? Pat - Every time I wear a scapular at work, they usually rip apart. If I get a new one, do I need to be re-enrolled? I also have a brown scapular medal. I was told by a Carmelite at Holy Hill that you do not have to have a prayer said over you if you replace the medal, but you do if you have a cloth one. Am I right or wrong. This was years ago. (20:22) Break 1 What is the history of the Brown Scapular? What is enrollment to the Brown Scapular? (28:15) Diane - I wear a medal, scapular medal. Supposed to be the same as cloth. Is that true and what has to be in place. Medal or cloth? Madonna - What is it with the different colors of scapulars, pink, blue, purple, etc.? Does that have anything to do with it? (32:46) Mary – I've been wearing one for 3 years. Is it inappropriate to wear it outside your clothing? Gina - My sister and I wore the scapular. Started 10 years ago. We got invested. Every time I think of that, I think of my sister. (38:55) Break 2 What are the promises of the brown scapular? (43:05) Juliana - If you're wearing a formal dress, could you pin the scapular or medal inside the garment or does it have to be worn around the neck? (45:14) Mike - How do you dispose of the scapular when it's time for a new one? Kelly - My mother died in the hospital. Wore it for forever. Hospital staff took it off. I didn't put it back on her. I've always been concerned about that.
Do you wear a brown scapular? You know that small piece of brown wool that you wear around your neck? We are celebrating a feast day in honor of the woman who gave the first brown scapular to the Carmelite order 700 years ago. To find out more about Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel and the Carmelites, listen to this reflection from Fr. Kubicki.
The Our Lady of Mt. Carmel procession through the streets of Hammonton, New Jersey, celebrates the 150th anniversary with a Canonical Coronation from the Pope will be bestowed upon the statue a Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. Listen to Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C share more in this segment of the Son Rise Morning Show on Sacred Heart Radio, about how the procession impacted his family and the people who attend it.The 150th anniversary of the procession in honor of the feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Hammonton, New Jersey, is the longest continuous Italian festival in the United States. The image of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel there will have a canonical coronation on the feast day, July 16th. A Mass celebrates the special event as well as the annual procession of saints through the streets. The Pallottines served the parish that was called St. Joseph from 1901-2004. The diocese merged three parishes into one and renamed the parish, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel. The other image of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel that has a canonical crown is at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in New York (1904) which is the first church of the Pallottines in the United States. The Pallottines still serve there there.A canonical coronation is a formal act by the Pope, expressed through a papal bull, to crown a venerated image of Christ, the Blessed Virgin Mary, or St. Joseph. This act acknowledges the image's local and universal significance within the Catholic Church. This is a rare honor for the church and our diocese.In the United States, only four Marian images have received this honor: Our Lady of Prompt Succor: Crowned on November 10, 1895, in New Orleans, Louisiana.Our Lady of Mount Carmel: Crowned on July 10, 1904, in New York City, New York. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Crowned on August 22, 2013, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Our Lady of La Leche: Crowned on October 10, 2021, at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine in Florida.The Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel celebrates the tradition that a Carmelite friar, St. Simon Stock, received a vision of the Blessed Mother presenting him with the Brown Scapular. Today, the scapular forms a part of the habit of Carmelite friars and sisters. Lay faithful who wear the scapular do so as both a sign of devotion to the Blessed Mother and as a promise to imitate her example as the perfect follower of Christ.Listen to Pallottine Fathers and Brothers to learn moreLearn more about Our Lady of Mt. CarmelVisit the Canonical Coronation websiteView the other images in the processionReady Summertime is a Time for Processions Follow us:The Catholic Apostolate CenterThe Center's podcast websiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastsSpotify Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. also appears on the podcast, On Mission, which is produced by the Catholic Apostolate Center and you can also listen to his weekly Sunday Gospel reflections. Follow the Center on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and YouTube to remain up-to-date on the latest Center resources.
Join us as we journey through the vibrant world of Italian-American feast traditions, focusing on the rich history and cultural significance of the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. This episode spotlights the oldest celebration of the feast in the United States, held in Hamilton, New Jersey. Andy Ponzarello shares captivating stories about the Italian immigrant experience and how these traditions endured through hardships like the World Wars. We delve into the origins of the Carmelite Order and the importance of July 16th—the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Southern Italian culture. Explore the evolution of Marian imagery, from Greek Byzantine influences to depictions in the Carmelite habit, and the widespread devotion to the brown scapular. Through historical context and personal anecdotes, we show how these devotions became a powerful unifying force for Southern Italians, both in their homeland and in immigrant communities across America. Discover the unique customs and modern revitalizations that keep these feasts alive—from candlelit processions to innovations like drone shows. We examine how these events continue to draw crowds and maintain cultural vibrancy through strategic outreach and strong community involvement. Through heartfelt stories and historical insight, we celebrate the enduring legacy of Italian American feast traditions and the deep emotional bonds they continue to foster across generations. HIS SOCIALS Facebook: The Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Society, Hammonton, NJ FEAST WEBSITE: Website: https://www.mountcarmelsociety.org/
Fr. Vincent O'Hara OCD, gives a talk on finding God in the Ups and downs of Life based on the writings of St. Therese of Lisieux. He gives an outline of her life, her message and the way she coped with sufferings. L'articolo Carmelite Spirituality – Fr. Vincent O'Hara – Finding God in the Ups and Downs of Life – St. Thérèse of Lisieux proviene da Radio Maria.
6-29-25: Music from Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles by
Embracing Patience and Presence in Everyday LifeIn this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts David Niles and Adam Minihan dive into the spiritual wisdom of Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century Carmelite lay brother, and his timeless book, The Practice of the Presence of God. From a heartfelt story about Adam's son asking, “Can patience exist without annoyance?” to exploring how Brother Lawrence found God in the chaos of a busy kitchen, the hosts discuss cultivating a constant awareness of God's presence. They address modern distractions like smartphones and share practical ways to reclaim presence in daily life, drawing inspiration from Brother Lawrence's disciplined yet joyful spirituality.Key Topics Covered:Adam's son's profound question: “Can patience exist without annoyance?”Brother Lawrence's life as a lay brother and former soldier, finding God in mundane tasksThe importance of disciplined prayer to build a habit of God's presenceOvercoming modern distractions like technology to stay present with God and othersPractical tips: Cultivating natural focus to enable supernatural awarenessAction Item:Practice presence by setting aside your phone during family time or conversations. Start with disciplined prayer to build a habit of offering every moment to God, as Brother Lawrence did.Resources:The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence (ICS Publications: icspublications.org)Join a pilgrimage with Select International Tours: selectinternationaltours.comKeywords: Brother Lawrence, Practice of the Presence of God, Catholic spirituality, patience, spiritual discipline, overcoming distractions, presence with God, Catholic men's faith, Christian living, technology and faith
Fr. John Grennan OCD, gives a talk on prayer from the writings of St. Teresa of Avila. L'articolo Carmelite Spirituality – Fr. John Grennan – towards depth in Prayer – St. Teresa of Avila proviene da Radio Maria.
Gloria Purvis joins the pod to discuss Carmelite spirituality, the legacy of Black Americans in the Catholic Church, and Church politics. Read our first interview in America https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2020/09/23/gloria-purvis-interview-racism-pro-life-politics-devilSubscribe to the Substack: https://cracksinpomo.substack.com
Gloria Purvis joins the pod to discuss Carmelite spirituality, the legacy of Black Americans in the Catholic Church, and Church politics. Read our first interview in America https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2020/09/23/gloria-purvis-interview-racism-pro-life-politics-devilSubscribe to the Substack: https://cracksinpomo.substack.com
Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Kings 17-19; Colossians 2 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, where we journey through the Bible together, letting scripture guide our hearts toward the living Word—Jesus. In today's episode for June 16th, host Hunter invites us to pause and listen as we explore the dramatic stories of Elijah in 1 Kings 17-19 and reflect on the deep spiritual truths of Colossians 2. Experience Elijah's bold faith, his miraculous encounters, and his vulnerable moments of exhaustion—contrasted with God's gentle and sustaining presence. We're reminded that God is not found in the noise, but often in the quiet whisper, inviting us to be still and truly listen. Hunter also encourages us to carry this practice of attentive listening beyond the podcast, seeking God's voice and joy in our daily lives. As we pray together and reflect, let's remember: we are loved, we are not alone, and God still speaks—if we'll only listen. TODAY'S DEVOTION: God answers, but are we listening? The contest was to see which god would answer with fire. And today's reading shows us the results. Amidst all the rattle and hum and the fits and fury, they just couldn't conjure up the results that our hearts are calling for. The hope, the light, the peace, the victory that, frankly, we were made for. Now, the writer has made it clear – some gods do not answer. But there is a God who does. On top of Mount Carmel today, there is a monastery in the Carmelite order. One of the unique things about some of the communities of the Carmelite order is that they take a vow of silence. And maybe it's a fitting thought that there, on the top of Mount Carmel today, there are people who are in prayer and who are being silent. They're being silent not because there's nothing to hear or listen to. They're being silent for that very reason – because there is something to hear. There is a God, and our God speaks. He has an answer for our souls, an answer for the questions of our heart, an answer to our burdens and our brokenness. There is a God who answers, and He doesn't require our fits and our fury. He doesn't need us to conjure up anything. Ours is to be still and know, to be still and listen to the God who's present, the One who's with us, the One who is victorious, the God who answers. And the prayer of my own soul today is that I will learn to listen, that I'll learn to quiet my heart and trust. That I'll learn that He is here with me even now. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer that I have for my family. That's the prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord of life, you have awakened me. Again to the gift of this day. You go before me. Walk beside me and dwell within me. Let me walk slowly in your presence. May I resist the hurried spirit of this world and instead breathe deep of your peace. Open my eyes to beauty, my ears to your voice, and my heart to the quiet work of grace. Help me not to strive, but to abide, not to achieve, but to receive. Today. Let my words carry your kindness. My actions reflect your mercy. My thoughts be anchored in your truth, that I am yours and you are with me. Amen. And now, as our Lord has taught us, we are bold to pray. Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation. Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL
6-15-25: Music from Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles by
Full Text of ReadingsTuesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 360The Saint of the day is Saint JoachimaSaint Joachima's Story Born into an aristocratic family in Barcelona, Spain, Joachima was 12 when she expressed a desire to become a Carmelite nun. But her life took an altogether different turn at 16 with her marriage to a young lawyer, Theodore de Mas. Both deeply devout, they became secular Franciscans. During their 17 years of married life they raised eight children. The normalcy of their family life was interrupted when Napoleon invaded Spain. Joachima had to flee with the children; Theodore remained behind and died. Though Joachima re-experienced a desire to enter a religious community, she attended to her duties as a mother. At the same time, the young widow led a life of austerity and chose to wear the habit of the Third Order of St. Francis as her ordinary dress. She spent much time in prayer and visiting the sick. Four years later, with some of her children now married and younger ones under their care, Joachima confessed her desire to a priest to join a religious order. With his encouragement, she established the Carmelite Sisters of Charity. In the midst of the fratricidal wars occurring at the time, Joachima was briefly imprisoned and later exiled to France for several years. Sickness ultimately compelled her to resign as superior of her order. Over the next four years she slowly succumbed to paralysis, which caused her to die by inches. At her death in 1854 at the age of 71, Joachima was known and admired for her high degree of prayer, deep trust in God, and selfless charity. Joachima was beatified by Pope Pius XII in 1940, and canonized by Pope John XXIII in 1959. Her liturgical feast is celebrated on August 28. Reflection Joachima understands loss. She lost the home where her children grew up, her husband, and finally her health. As the power to move and care for her own needs slowly ebbed away, this woman who had all her life cared for others became wholly dependent; she required help with life's simplest tasks. When our own lives go spinning out of control, when illness and bereavement and financial hardship strike, all we can do is cling to the belief that sustained Joachima: God watches over us always. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
6-8-25: Music from Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles by
1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be like to ten virgins, who taking their lamps went out to meet the bridegroom and the bride.Tunc simile erit regnum caelorum decem virginibus : quae accipientes lampades suas exierunt obviam sponso et sponsae. 2 And five of them were foolish, and five wise.Quinque autem ex eis erant fatuae, et quinque prudentes : 3 But the five foolish, having taken their lamps, did not take oil with them:sed quinque fatuae, acceptis lampadibus, non sumpserunt oleum secum : 4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with the lamps.prudentes vero acceperunt oleum in vasis suis cum lampadibus. 5 And the bridegroom tarrying, they all slumbered and slept.Moram autem faciente sponso, dormitaverunt omnes et dormierunt. 6 And at midnight there was a cry made: Behold the bridegroom cometh, go ye forth to meet him.Media autem nocte clamor factus est : Ecce sponsus venit, exite obviam ei. 7 Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps.Tunc surrexerunt omnes virgines illae, et ornaverunt lampades suas. 8 And the foolish said to the wise: Give us of your oil, for our lamps are gone out.Fatuae autem sapientibus dixerunt : Date nobis de oleo vestro, quia lampades nostrae extinguuntur. 9 The wise answered, saying: Lest perhaps there be not enough for us and for you, go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.Responderunt prudentes, dicentes : Ne forte non sufficiat nobis, et vobis, ite potius ad vendentes, et emite vobis. 10 Now whilst they went to buy, the bridegroom came: and they that were ready, went in with him to the marriage, and the door was shut.Dum autem irent emere, venit sponsus : et quae paratae erant, intraverunt cum eo ad nuptias, et clausa est janua. 11 But at last come also the other virgins, saying: Lord, Lord, open to us.Novissime vero veniunt et reliquae virgines, dicentes : Domine, domine, aperi nobis. 12 But he answering said: Amen I say to you, I know you not.At ille respondens, ait : Amen dico vobis, nescio vos. 13 Watch ye therefore, because you know not the day nor the hour.Vigilate itaque, quia nescitis diem, neque horam.St Mary Magdalen consecrated her virginity to Christ at the age of ten; she was a Carmelite, famous for her visions. Her motto was To suffer and not to die. She died A.D. 1607.
S7 E6- Mystical experiences, Self-doubt, and Profound connection with the Divine, Embracing Divine Love with Kimberly BrauIn this captivating episode of "How I Made It Through," host Bernadette Thompson welcomes the inspiring Kimberly Braun, a minister, author, speaker, retreat facilitator, and meditative coach. Kimberly shares her nextraordinary journey of spiritual awakening and her profound experiences that have shaped her life. From her early childhood realizations of divine love to her time as a monastic nun, Kimberly's story is a testament to the transformative power of spirituality. She discusses her mystical experiences, the challenges of self-doubt, and the profound moments of connection with the divine that have guided her path. Join us as Kimberly reveals the depth of her spiritual insights and offers wisdom on living a life centered in divine love.- Kimberly Braun's Website: [kimberlybraun.com](https://www.kimberlybraun.com)- International Association of Near-Death Studies (IANDS): [iands.org](https://www.iands.org)- Books by Kimberly Braun: Available on her website and major book retailers.To Connect with Bernadette Thompson: Intuitive Ancestral HealerBernadette's website: https://www.tellmeourstory.com/Email Address : Bernadette@tellmeourstory.com**Chapter Markers:**- **[00:00]** - Introduction: Bernadette introduces the episode and guest, Kimberly Braun.- **[03:00]** - Early Spiritual Awakening: Kimberly shares her childhood experiences of divine connection.- **[06:00]** - The Leaf Story: A transformative moment that shaped Kimberly's understanding of life and death.- **[09:00]** - Deepening Spiritual Realizations: Kimberly discusses her ongoing spiritual journey and experiences.- **[12:00]** - Navigating Self-Doubt: Kimberly opens up about her struggles with self-doubt and self-hatred.- **[15:00]** - Near-Death Experience: Kimberly recounts her near-death experience and its impact on her spirituality.- **[18:00]** - Embracing Life with Divine Love: Kimberly's decision to return to life and her renewed sense of purpose.- **[21:00]** - Mystical Experiences as Daily Bread: Kimberly describes her continuous mystical experiences and healing.- **[24:00]** - Seeking Spiritual Guidance: The search for a spiritual director and finding guidance through literature.- **[27:00]** - Encounter with the Carmelites: Kimberly's connection with the Carmelite tradition and its influence on her journey.- **[30:00]** - A Divine Encounter: A significant moment at a Carmelite monastery that solidified Kimberly's path.**Resources:**Thank you for joining us on this enlightening episode with Kimberly Braun. If you found this conversation inspiring, please consider subscribing to "How I Made It Through" and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with friends and family who may benefit from Kimberly's insights. For more information about Kimberly's work, visit her website and explore her books. Want to know more about Bernadette Thompson, visit her website and reach out to her with questions. Stay connected with us for more transformative stories and insights on living a life centered in love and spirituality.
Full Text of ReadingsSaturday of the Fifth Week of Easter Lectionary: 290The Saint of the day is Saint Mary Magdalene de PazziSaint Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi's Story Mystical ecstasy is the elevation of the spirit to God in such a way that the person is aware of this union with God while both internal and external senses are detached from the sensible world. Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi was so generously given this special gift of God that she is called the “ecstatic saint.” Catherine de' Pazzi was born into a noble family in Florence in 1566. The normal course would have been for her to have married into wealth and enjoyed comfort, but Catherine chose to follow her own path. At 9, she learned to meditate from the family confessor. She made her first Communion at the then-early age of 10, and made a vow of virginity one month later. At 16, Catherine entered the Carmelite convent in Florence because she could receive Communion daily there. Catherine had taken the name Mary Magdalene and had been a novice for a year when she became critically ill. Death seemed near, so her superiors let her make her profession of vows in a private ceremony from a cot in the chapel. Immediately after, Mary Magdalene fell into an ecstasy that lasted about two hours. This was repeated after Communion on the following 40 mornings. These ecstasies were rich experiences of union with God and contained marvelous insights into divine truths. As a safeguard against deception and to preserve the revelations, her confessor asked Mary Magdalene to dictate her experiences to sister secretaries. Over the next six years, five large volumes were filled. The first three books record ecstasies from May of 1584 through Pentecost week the following year. This week was a preparation for a severe five-year trial. The fourth book records that trial and the fifth is a collection of letters concerning reform and renewal. Another book, Admonitions, is a collection of her sayings arising from her experiences in the formation of women religious. The extraordinary was ordinary for this saint. She read the thoughts of others and predicted future events. During her lifetime, Mary Magdalene appeared to several persons in distant places and cured a number of sick people. It would be easy to dwell on the ecstasies and pretend that Mary Magdalene only had spiritual highs. This is far from true. It seems that God permitted her this special closeness to prepare her for the five years of desolation that followed when she experienced spiritual dryness. She was plunged into a state of darkness in which she saw nothing but what was horrible in herself and all around her. She had violent temptations and endured great physical suffering. Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi died in 1607 at age 41, and was canonized in 1669. Her liturgical feast is celebrated on May 25. Reflection Intimate union, God's gift to mystics, is a reminder to all of us of the eternal happiness of union he wishes to give us. The cause of mystical ecstasy in this life is the Holy Spirit, working through spiritual gifts. The ecstasy occurs because of the weakness of the body and its powers to withstand the divine illumination, but as the body is purified and strengthened, ecstasy no longer occurs. See Teresa of Avila's Interior Castle, and John of the Cross' Dark Night of the Soul, for more about various aspects of ecstasies. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
Welcome to “The Theology of True Beauty” with O'Maria Akpati! In this episode What is Beauty? True Godfidence vs. Worldly Self-Esteem, O'Maria shares her personal journey from the world of celebrity makeup artistry to the profound silence of the Carmelite monastery. Through her story, she illuminates the fragile foundation of external validation and introduces the concept […] L'articolo E1 | What is Beauty? True Godfidence vs. Worldly Self-Esteem proviene da Radio Maria.
Friends of the Rosary,As we read today (John 14:1-6), Jesus said to his disciples:"Do not let your hearts be troubled.You have faith in God; have faith also in me.In my Father's house, there are many dwelling places.If there were not, would I have told youthat I am going to prepare a place for you?""I am the way and the truth and the life.No one comes to the Father except through me."Today is the memorial of St. Simon Stock (1165-1265), a hermit who received a vision of the Blessed Mother promising salvation to all those who wore the brown scapular of the Carmelite order. Mary showed Simon, a member of the Carmelite order, a brown scapular. This vision led to the widespread devotion to Mary over the following centuries.Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will. Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New York• May 16, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Today we celebrate the feast of Saint Simon Stock, a Carmelite whom Mary entrusted with the gift of the Brown Scapular. Do you want to know more about this devotion? Check out this informative reflection.
Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter Saint of the Day: St. Simon Stock; brought the Carmelite order from the Holy Land to Europe, and changed it from a hermit order to one of mendicant friars; received an apparition from the Blessed Mother in 1251, in which she gave him the brown scapular Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 5/16/25 Gospel: John 14:1-6
Full Text of ReadingsTuesday of the Fourth Week of Easter Lectionary: 280The Saint of the day is Our Lady of FatimaThe Story of Our Lady of Fatima Between May 13 and October 13, 1917, three Portuguese children–Francisco and Jacinta Marto and their cousin Lucia dos Santos–received apparitions of Our Lady at Cova da Iria near Fatima, a city 110 miles north of Lisbon. Mary asked the children to pray the rosary for world peace, for the end of World War I, for sinners, and for the conversion of Russia. Mary gave the children three secrets. Following the deaths of Francisco and Jacinta in 1919 and 1920 respectively, Lucia revealed the first secret in 1927. It concerned devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The second secret was a vision of hell. When Lucia grew up she became a Carmelite nun and died in 2005 at the age of 97. Pope John Paul II directed the Holy See's Secretary of State to reveal the third secret in 2000; it spoke of a “bishop in white” who was shot by a group of soldiers who fired bullets and arrows into him. Many people linked this vision to the assassination attempt against Pope John Paul II in St. Peter's Square on May 13, 1981. The feast of Our Lady of Fatima was approved by the local bishop in 1930; it was added to the Church's worldwide calendar in 2002. Reflection The message of Fatima is simple: Pray. Unfortunately, some people—not Sister Lucia—have distorted these revelations, making them into an apocalyptic event for which they are now the only reliable interpreters. They have, for example, claimed that Mary's request that the world be consecrated to her has been ignored. Sister Lucia agreed that Pope John Paul II's public consecration in St. Peter's Square on March 25, 1984, fulfilled Mary's request. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith prepared a June 26, 2000, document explaining the “third secret.” Mary is perfectly honored when people generously imitate her response “Let it be done to me as you say” (Luke 1:38). Mary can never be seen as a rival to Jesus or to the Church's teaching authority, as exercised by the college of bishops united with the bishop of Rome. Click here for more on Our Lady! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
Sunday, 11 May 2025 Simon the Cananite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. Matthew 10:4 “Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, the ‘also having betrayed Him'” (CG). In the previous verse, the list of the twelve named apostles continued with six names. The final two are mentioned next, beginning with, “Simon the Kananaios.” The name Simon has been explained. The title that is given to him is Kananaios, sometimes translated as a Canaanite. At other times, it is translated as a Zealot or some other word indicating being zealous, like the word Patriot. The word is found only here and in Mark 3:18, again describing the same person. In Luke 6:15 and Acts 1:13, the same person is described with the word zélótés, to be zealous. The reason for all the variances is that there is a dispute about where the word is derived from. One supposed root is the Hebrew word qanna, which means jealous. It is a word used six times in Exodus and Deuteronomy when referring to the Lord, speaking of His jealous nature. Some apply this root to indicate a zealous nature for the Lord. That would make sense based on Luke's use of zélótés as a comparable meaning word. However, it is questionable if a title given only to the Lord would later be applied to people. If it were, it would be as an honorific, saying something like, “He has the Lord's jealousy guiding his life.” However, as noted, others translate the word as Canaanite. This seems to be less preferable because he would have been a Jew, but it could be that he associated himself with the land of Canaan as being the home territory of the Jews and wanted to restore it to Jewish control. However, another word group is used in Greek to indicate Canaan. Thus, this translation is rather unlikely. Another option is the occasional translation of this word as a Cananaean. That would mean he was from Cana of Galilee. This is not improbable. As it is a transliteration, this rendering doesn't do any harm. It simply gives an Anglicized rendering of the Greek. Leaving the Greek directly transliterated into English avoids a mistranslation, and so that is what has been done here. Next, it says, “and Judas Iscariot.” The name Judas is derived from the Hebrew Yehudah, meaning Judah. Judah was the fourth son of Jacob, born to Leah as recorded in Genesis 29:35. His name means Praise. The name in Greek includes Jude, the author of the book of Jude. It is also translated as Judah in Matthew 1 and Luke 3. Each time, it is in Jesus' genealogy. The title Iscariot is from the Greek Iskariótés. It is believed to be a transliteration from the Hebrew words ish, man, and qirya, city or town. Thus, he would be a man of the city or a man of Kerioth, a city in Israel noted four times in the Old Testament. If he were from Kerioth, he would be the only non-Galilean apostle because Kerioth was a city found in the territory of Judah. Of him, it next says, “the ‘also having betrayed Him.'” He is introduced into Scripture with the sad epitaph attached to him. Later, using the word apóleia, meaning destruction, ruin, loss, etc., other than the antichrist, he is the only person called a son of perdition in Scripture – “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.” John 17:12 “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4 It is as if these two notorious men were born to be destroyed. Such is the nature of misusing one's freewill to work against the Lord. Life application: The names of the apostles are recorded, some with descriptors to give further hints about their nature. From there, some of them will have various things said about them. Peter is recorded as having denied Jesus and been weak in his stand for proper doctrine, as recorded in Galatians 2. Thomas is forever known as a doubter. He is used as an example of this quality today, such as, “Come on, man! Stop being a Doubting Thomas.” David is known as a man after God's heart. Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet. Nabal the Carmelite is known as a fool. We will all be remembered before others and before the Lord for how we conducted our lives. What is it that you want to be remembered for? “He was a faithful Christian.” “He was a loving father.” “He was one greedy dude.” Like the designation of these apostles, we are generally summed up with a very short thought when remembered by others. What few words do you expect people will remember you by? Lord God, we are living our lives out before others and in Your presence. How will we be remembered when we are gone? Help us to consider this and to do our best to live our lives in a manner that will honor You and reflect the positive qualities of faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Today's Topics: 1) Comments on the Papal Conclave a news of the day 2, 3, 4) Patty Stewart on how she discovered that a Lay Carmelite order in which she was about to be fully professed with was promoting modernist and secular ideas which caused her to brokenheartedly resign. She exposes corruption, compromise and cowardice found in this Lay Order of Carmelites and how it has been infiltrated
5-4-25: Music from Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles by
We continue our series on the sorrowful mysteries of the rosary with St. Titus Brandsma. Titus was a Carmelite mystic who was killed in the Dachau concentration camp during WWII. However, alongside his amazing story are rich spiritual fruits especially when it comes to suffering and the Way of the Cross.
Saturday of the Third Week of Lent Saint of the Day: St. Berthold; considered by many to be the Twelfth Century founder of the Carmelite order; born in Limoges, France, ordained a priest, and joined his brother Aymeric--the Latin patriarch of Antioch--in the Crusades; on Mount Carmel, found a group of hermits, joined them, and established a rule; Aymeric appointed Berthod the first Carmelite superior general; he headed the Carmelites for 45 years, and died in 1195 Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 3/29/25 Gospel: Luke 18:9-14
As Radio 4 marks the 5th anniversary of the first COVID lockdown, Free Thinking investigates one of the defining experiences of that period for many people: isolation. It's a word that entered the English language in the 18th century, and arguably its emergence as a concept marked a change in the way people saw their relationships with other people and the wider community, towards a more individualistic society. And yet there's a long history of religious mystics seeking solitude. From Robinson Crusoe to the crew of the International Space Station, via monasticism and Romanticism, Matthew Sweet investigates the histories of isolation and solitude.With: Mark Vernon, psychotherapist with a deep interest in the role of solitude in the Western spiritual tradition. His book Awake! William Blake and the Power of the Imagination will be published in June. Lucy Powell, Lecturer in English Literature at the University of Oxford Kathleen Burk, Professor Emerita of Modern and Contemporary History at University College London, who will talk about isolationism as an aspect of the American political psyche Jim Hoare, diplomat who opened the first British embassy in North Korea in the 1990s. Catherine Coldstream, writer and former Carmelite nun, her memoir is Cloistered: My Years As A NunProducer: Luke Mulhall
Friends of the Rosary,Today, Tuesday before Ash Wednesday is a traditionally celebrated the Holy Face of Jesus.Gazing upon the face of Christ crucified unites us with all His sorrows, love, and total abandonment.In 1957, Pope Pius XII established this feast.Jesus revealed devotion to the Holy Face to Sister Marie of Saint Peter (1816-1848), a Carmelite nun from Tours, France.Our Lord said to her:“Every time My Face is contemplated, I will pour out My Love into the hearts of those persons, and by means of My Holy Face, the salvation of many souls will be obtained.”Two miraculous images are associated with the Holy Face Devotion: Veronica's Veil, the cloth used by Saint Veronica to wipe the face of Jesus during his passion, and the Holy Shroud of Turin, the burial cloth of Christ.As revealed to Blessed Sister Pierina, Tuesday is a day of reparation to the Holy Face in front of the Blessed Sacrament. Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!+ Mikel Amigot | RosaryNetwork.com, New York• March 4, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Full Text of ReadingsThursday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 338The Saint of the day is Saints Jacinta and Francisco MartoSaints Jacinta and Francisco Marto's Story Between May 13 and October 13, 1917, three Portuguese shepherd children from Aljustrel, received apparitions of Our Lady at Cova da Iria, near Fátima, a city 110 miles north of Lisbon. At that time, Europe was involved in an extremely bloody war. Portugal itself was in political turmoil, having overthrown its monarchy in 1910; the government disbanded religious organizations soon after. At the first appearance, Mary asked the children to return to that spot on the thirteenth of each month for the next six months. She also asked them to learn to read and write and to pray the rosary “to obtain peace for the world and the end of the war.” They were to pray for sinners and for the conversion of Russia, which had recently overthrown Czar Nicholas II and was soon to fall under communism. Up to 90,000 people gathered for Mary's final apparition on October 13, 1917. Less than two years later, Francisco died of influenza in his family home. He was buried in the parish cemetery and then re-buried in the Fátima basilica in 1952. Jacinta died of influenza in Lisbon in 1920, offering her suffering for the conversion of sinners, peace in the world, and the Holy Father. She was re-buried in the Fátima basilica in 1951. Their cousin Lúcia dos Santos, became a Carmelite nun and was still living when Jacinta and Francisco were beatified in 2000; she died five years later. Pope Francis canonized the younger children on his visit to Fátima to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first apparition–May 13, 2017. The shrine of Our Lady of Fátima is visited by up to 20 million people a year. Reflection The Church is always very cautious about endorsing alleged apparitions, but it has seen benefits from people changing their lives because of the message of Our Lady of Fátima. Prayer for sinners, devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and praying the rosary—all these reinforce the Good News Jesus came to preach. Click here for more on Our Lady of Fatima! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today we're diving into a meaningful conversation on spiritual formation, brokenness, and divine love with our dear friend and ally, James Bryan Smith. In this episode, Michael shares deeply from his own journey of overcoming personal brokenness, including abuse, addiction, deception, and betrayal, to find wholeness through a closer walk with God. He opens up about the stark contrast between his troubled home life and the nurturing he found in visits to a cloistered Carmelite nunnery during his childhood—moments that profoundly shaped his spiritual outlook.Join us as we explore attachment theory, the impact of early emotional bonds, and how our image of God is shaped by our life experiences. Michael & Jim shed light on how recognizing and addressing our deepest wounds can lead to a secure and loving relationship with God, free from the cycle of striving and spiritual exhaustion. Moreover, they discuss the critical role of being seen, soothed, safe, and secure in our spiritual development.They also delve into the false narratives that sustain evil: the lies that we can't trust God and that it's up to us because God won't come through. Michael and Jim's insights provide a refreshing perspective on recognizing our wretchedness not as a condemnation but as an opportunity to receive God's grace and love more fully.ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!
Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris, O.C.D., is a dedicated Discalced Carmelite priest currently serving as the Subprior and Director of Postulants at the Carmelite community in Holy Hill, Wisconsin. He was ordained in 2011 for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., and later joined the Carmelites in 2016. Known for his deep devotion to St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Fr. Paris has extensively studied her life and writings, sharing his insights through various platforms. He is also a co-host of the "Carmelcast" podcast and the "Catholic Classics" series on Ascension Presents, where he delves into profound spiritual and theological topics. — Discalced Carmelites, Immaculate Heart of Mary Province https://www.discalcedcarmel.org/ ICS Publications Channel https://www.youtube.com/@ICSPublications —