The Active Night of the Purification of the Spirit

09/12/23 • 18 min

In this homily, Deacon Mark Danis asked himself what can souls do to prepare themselves in the Active Night to enter into the Passive Night of the Spirit, which St. John of the Cross discusses in his book, “Ascent to Mount Carmel” as well as in book, “The Dark Night of the Soul.” Deacon Danis helps us understand why there is a need for the purification of the faculties of the memory, intellect and will and what we can do to respond favorably to God’s call to union with Him.

Previous Episode

Exploring Contemplation with St. John of the Cross (part 4)

In the life of prayer, there are always transitions. We cannot remain static in our pursuit of God. In this particular program, Mark and Frances identify the seven vices that often hold us back from progressing into deeper, more interior stages of prayer. They also identify how St. John of the Cross counsels souls to respond to these impediments to our spiritual growth. Next, they offer evidence of the beginning of gift of contemplation. This transitional period is significant in that it is the place where so many souls run the risk of losing their way, or of turning back. This critical transitional period requires a new approach to prayer, and it demands more fidelity in abandoning ourselves to God’s specific designs for our life.

Book: “Saint John of the Cross: Master of Contemplation” by Fr. Donald Haggerty; Ignatius Press.

Next Episode

Interior Castle (part 9): Sixth Dwelling Place; Ch. 4-6: Mansion of Spiritual Betrothal & Mystical Communications

God continues to draw the soul closer to Him through the purification of the soul as well as mystical favors that may occur. In this episode, we talk about ecstasies, raptures, flights of the spirit, spiritual betrothal, gift of tears, and the prayer of jubilation. These are all communications from God to the individual soul to draw the soul closer to Himself. St. Teresa always helps us know the effects of such favors and how to discern if they are truly from God. Although some souls may never experience these favors, just knowing about them helps us to praise God all the more for his Majesty, Power, Wisdom and Love.

RESOURCES:

“Interior Castle, Study Guide, 2nd Edition” by St. Teresa of Avila; Translated and Prepared by Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD; ICS Publications.

“The Interior Journey Toward God: Reflections from Saint Teresa of Avila” by John Paul Thomas; My Catholic Life.

“Journey into Divine Intimacy with St. Teresa of Avila: a Retreat, Spiritual Direction Guide, and Study Resource” by Sr. Leslie Lund, OCDH (Hermit of the Order of Discalced Carmelites); Carmelite Sisters of Mary Publishers, 2019.

“The Ordinary Path to Holiness” by R. Thomas Richard, PhD; St. Pauls, 2003.

“The Spiritual Life” by Adollphe Tanquerey, SS. DD; Tan Books, 2000.

“Visions and Revelations” by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen; Sophia Institute Press; 2022.

“Private Revelation: Discerning with the Church” by Mark Miravalle; Seat of Wisdom Publications; 2007.

“Revelations and Visions” by Augustin Poulain, SJ; St. Paul’s, 1998.