CarmelCast

The Passion of Christ is not exhausted by words—it is something we must learn to hear again.And that begins in silence.Visit  retreat-online.karmel.at to sign up for the 2026 Online Carmelite Retreat Texts

Mary’s yes to God was not sentimental. It was costly.From the prophecy of Simeon to the shadow of Calvary, she knew that obedience would lead to suffering. Yet she did not withdraw her Fiat. She entrusted everything to the Father — even her beloved Son.Why would she say yes to a path marked by the cross? And if obedience leads to sacrifice, would we do the same?In this reflection, we look at the cost of Mary’s yes — and what it means for our own faith.Visit  retreat-online.karmel.at to sign up for the 2026 Online Carmelite Retreat Texts

You weren’t meant to do this alone.We keep trying to fix ourselves, prove ourselves, and become better on our own—but that’s exactly where we fail. The spiritual life isn’t about independence. It’s about union.Jesus reveals that true freedom comes not from self-reliance, but from living completely with the Father. And apart from Him, we can do nothing.In this reflection, we confront the root of our struggle—and the only way out.

Lent can feel like a maze. But where is it all leading? Lent is not a program of self-improvement. It is part of something far greater: our transformation into the divine life of God.In this video, we explore why Lent exists and how Mary shows us the final goal.Visit  retreat-online.karmel.at to sign up for the 2026 Online Carmelite Retreat Texts

Have you ever kept your Lenten resolutions and still felt worse instead of better? What if that discomfort isn’t failure — but a sign that something deeper is happening? This reflection explores why Lent can feel harder precisely when it’s doing its work.Visit  retreat-online.karmel.at to sign up for the 2026 Online Carmelite Retreat Texts

If Christ has already won the victory, why does suffering remain?In this reflection we turn to St John of the Cross and the mystery of the Crucified Christ to understand why victory does not always mean removal of pain. The Cross was not a display of strength but of weakness transformed by love. And that changes everything for how we endure our trials today.Visit  retreat-online.karmel.at to sign up for the 2026 Online Carmelite Retreat Texts

Lent is not a self-improvement program. It is not about our plans our projects or our performance. From the beginning Lent was a preparation for Baptism a time to empty our hands and receive the life God wants to give.Drawing from St John of the Cross and the meaning of Christian obedience this reflection explores what it really means to follow Christ. We cannot follow Him while clinging to our own will. Lent invites us to let go to trust the Father and to learn how to live at the pace of grace.Visit  retreat-online.karmel.at to sign up for the 2026 Online Carmelite Retreat Texts

Over time, the popular image of St. Thérèse has sometimes obscured her true depth. This episode looks beyond the clichés to reveal the real Thérèse and the heart of her message.The relics of St. Thérèse are here in the United States! See more information about her visit here: https://stthereseusa2025.com/For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

Shortly after the death of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, countless miracles began to occur through her intercession—healings, conversions, and answers to prayer that revealed the power of her Little Way. Many of these miracles are closely connected to her relics, which have traveled across the world, drawing millions of people to deeper faith and love of God. In this episode, we explore the extraordinary history of these miracles, the meaning of relics in Catholic tradition, and why St. Thérèse continues to touch hearts and lives even today.The relics of St. Thérèse are here in the United States! See more information about her visit here: https://stthereseusa2025.com/Stronger than Steel: Soldiers of the Great War Write to Thérèse of Lisieux - https://www.icspublications.org/collections/from-other-publishers/products/stronger-than-steel-soldiers-of-the-great-war-write-to-therese-of-lisieuxA Shower of Roses: The Most Beautiful Miracles of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux - https://www.icspublications.org/collections/from-other-publishers/products/a-shower-of-roses-the-most-beautiful-miracles-of-saint-therese-of-lisieuxFor more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

The final years of St. Thérèse’s life were marked by profound physical, psychological, and spiritual suffering. In this episode, we explore how these trials became the path to her deepest faith and trust in God. The relics of St. Thérèse are here in the United States! See more information about her visit here: https://stthereseusa2025.com/For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

During the final year of her life, St. Thérèse wrote letters to a seminarian named Maurice Bellière. In this episode, we're joined by ICS Publications editor, Amelia Castro-Mendoza, to discuss the story of Maurice's life and how he became a great protégé of the Little Way.The relics of St. Thérèse are here in the United States! See more information about her visit here: https://stthereseusa2025.com/For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

St. Thérèse entered a profound spiritual darkness during the final 18 months of her life. In this episode, we explore her trial of faith and the powerful lessons she offers for facing our own times of spiritual struggle.The relics of St. Thérèse are here in the United States! See more information about her visit here: https://stthereseusa2025.com/For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

"It is confidence and nothing but confidence that must lead us to love." In this episode, we discuss the confidence of St. Thérèse that is at the heart of her Little Way.The relics of St. Thérèse are here in the United States! See more information about her visit here: https://stthereseusa2025.com/For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

St. Thérèse has been called the saint of hope. In this episode, we explore her timeless wisdom and discover what she teaches us about living with true theological hope. The relics of St. Thérèse are here in the United States! See more information about her visit here: https://stthereseusa2025.com/For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

In this episode, we answer your questions about Carmelite spirituality and the Carmelite saints!For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Fr. John Sullivan, O.C.D., to explore the inspiring story of the newest Carmelite saints—sixteen Discalced Carmelite nuns martyred during the French Revolution.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down to explore the power of spiritual autobiographies and what St. Edith Stein (Teresa Benedicta of the Cross) can teach us about how to read them.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Anne-Elisabeth Giuliani to discuss the life and teaching of the Carmelite friar, Blessed Marie-Eugene.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Marc Foley, O.C.D., to discuss the experience and teaching of St. Therese on scrupulosity.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Gregory Pine, OP, to discuss the human soul and how we grow closer to God in our lives.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

We are all in need of healing in our lives. In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Daniel Chowning, O.C.D. to hear what St. John of the Cross teaches about healing and contemplation.Check out Fr. Daniel's new book: Healed by Love https://www.icspublications.org/products/healed-by-loveFor more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

Easter is not just a single day—it is a season, a transformation, and an invitation to see with new eyes. In this reflection, we ponder the Paschal mystery through the lens of Faith, exploring how the Resurrection of Jesus offers not only victory over sin and death but also a renewed perspective on our struggles, failures, and defeats.Even when Lent feels like a missed train or our resolutions fall apart, the empty tomb still speaks. Join us as we consider how the gift of Faith allows us to “see and believe,” and how saints like Peter, John, and Thérèse of Lisieux guide us deeper into the joy of Paschaltide: a joy that leads to abiding union with the risen Christ.

What do you see when you look at a crucifix?Is it guilt? Indifference? Or can it become your greatest comfort?In this reflection, we explore the powerful mystery at the heart of the Christian faith: the Crucified Christ. With the help of St. Thérèse of Lisieux—who clung to the cross in life and in death. We reflect on why this image is not a symbol of defeat, but of victorious love.This is not a sentimental meditation. It’s a deep look at the comfort only Christ can give—comfort that reaches into our suffering, our fear of death, and our longing to be loved.

Envy poisons the soul, making us see others as rivals rather than companions in grace. But St. Thérèse of Lisieux discovered a truth that uproots envy completely—God’s love is infinite, merciful, and personal. We explore St. Thérèse’s profound garden imagery and how it reveals the key to overcoming envy. She once longed to be like the rose, yet she found peace in accepting her place as a simple violet or daisy. Her wisdom teaches us that God’s love is not scarce like earthly goods but abundant like the noonday sun, shining on all without measure. Discover how to embrace your place in God’s garden and rejoice in the gifts of others.

Why give yourself completely to God? St. Thérèse of Lisieux shows us the answer: because He is Mercy itself. Throughout her life, Thérèse sang of God’s mercy, not just in words but in how she lived—with total trust and surrender. But what does it really mean to trust in God’s mercy? And how do we respond to it?In this reflection, we explore the heart of Thérèse’s spirituality—her confidence in God's love, even in weakness. We’ll see how scripture reveals God's desire for mercy, not sacrifice, and how Thérèse embraced this truth with childlike trust. Her Act of Offering to Merciful Love invites us to do the same.No matter who you are or what you've done, God's mercy is waiting for you. Will you trust Him? Watch now to discover how giving yourself completely to God is not just possible—it’s the greatest decision you’ll ever make.

Lent is a season of conversion—a time to return to that first encounter with God’s love. St. Thérèse of Lisieux remembered hers clearly: Christmas night, 1886. After years of spiritual struggle, she received the grace to overcome her self-preoccupation and embrace love and sacrifice.Like Moses at the burning bush and the Samaritan woman at the well, Thérèse’s encounter changed everything. God calls us to the same transformation—to receive His love and share it with others. This Lent, let’s open our hearts to His presence once again.

How can we find Jesus hidden in our daily lives? St. Thérèse of Lisieux sought to see Christ’s face even in moments of darkness, offering her suffering for others and recognizing His presence in those in need. In this video, we explore her devotion to the Holy Face, her “trial of faith,” and how her spiritual insights can help us see Christ in both glory and suffering. Join us as we uncover the beauty of seeking Jesus, even when He seems hidden.

Temptation can feel like a burden, but St. Thérèse of Lisieux saw it as a hidden grace—a path to spiritual growth and deeper union with God. Through Scripture, the wisdom of the saints, and Thérèse’s own letters, this reflection explores how struggles with temptation can strengthen our faith rather than weaken it. Listen now to discover how to embrace trials with trust and confidence in God’s plan!

Your dignity as a human being surpasses all creation—you are made for union with God. St. Thérèse of Lisieux not only believed this but lived it daily, longing so ardently for this union that she desired to die of love. Raised in a deeply devout family, she entered Carmel at 15, embracing her “Little Way”—a path of confidence, love, and offering every sacrifice for God.At 24, through suffering and darkness of faith, she remained steadfast, surrendering herself completely. Her final words, “My God, I love You!”, sealed a life of radical love. Now a Doctor of the Church, she guides souls to holiness, showering roses from heaven.

Both Mary and Thérèse lived lives deeply centered on Scripture, not merely as a text to study but as a living encounter with Jesus Christ. Discover how their prayerful pondering of the Word invites us into deeper intimacy with God, both in the liturgy and personal prayer. This Advent, let their example inspire you to hear God’s voice in Scripture and respond with your whole heart.This video is for the fourth week of Advent and accompanies an online retreat:http://www.retreat-online.karmel.atPresenter: Br. Vladimir Guadalupe, O.C.D.Voiceover for St. Therese: Emma SelfLearn more about the Basilica of the Little Flower mentioned in today's video: http://www.LittleFlowerBasilica.org

St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s life reminds us that everything is grace, even in moments of suffering or deprivation. Her profound Eucharistic spirituality teaches us how to trust in God’s love, offering our lives to Him with confidence and humility. As we journey through Advent, her “Little Way” inspires us to await Christ’s coming with hope, knowing that His grace transforms all things. At Christmas, we celebrate the ultimate gift of grace: God made flesh, dwelling among us.This video is for the third week of Advent and accompanies an online retreat:http://www.retreat-online.karmel.atPresenter: Br. Isaiah of the Holy Face, O.C.D.Voiceover for St. Therese: Emma Self

St. Thérèse of Lisieux exemplifies profound confidence in God’s merciful love, illustrated through her metaphor of the little bird. This imagery highlights her humility in recognizing spiritual poverty and her bold trust in God’s strength rather than personal efforts. Her example demonstrates that confidence in God is accessible to all, as it rests entirely on His goodness, not human perfection. Through the bird’s gaze fixed on the Divine Sun, she reveals a spirituality centered on God’s love and the hope of being lifted to holiness by His grace. Rooted in Advent’s themes of waiting and trusting in God’s promises, her life inspires a deeper awareness of the need for Christmas. This video is for the second week of Advent and accompanies an online retreat:http://www.retreat-online.karmel.atPresenter: Br. John-Magdalene, O.C.D.Voiceover for St. Therese: Emma Self

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus exemplified spiritual childhood, but its ultimate model is Christ Himself, who eternally receives everything from the Father. This filial receptivity is the essence of Christian prayer, as seen in Christ’s relationship with the Father and reflected in contemplative prayer, which St. John of the Cross describes as pure receptivity. Thérèse lived this deeply, seeing prayer as a heartfelt aspiration, even amid dryness, and trusting God’s guidance in her daily life. Her spiritual path mirrors Christ’s, who always turned to the Father, doing only what He saw the Father doing (John 5:19).This video is for the first week of Advent and accompanies an online retreat:http://www.retreat-online.karmel.atSt. Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face will help us prepare for ChristmasPresenter: Br. Nathanael of Jesus, O.C.D.

This season of CarmelCast explores the life of St. Teresa of Avila, foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and Doctor of the Church. In this episode, we discuss the legacy of St. Teresa passed down to us through her spiritual works.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

This season of CarmelCast explores the life of St. Teresa of Avila, foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and Doctor of the Church. In this episode, we are joined by Fr. Celedonio Martinez, OCD to discuss the passion and genius of St. Teresa in her challenging adventures founding monasteries throughout Spain.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

This season of CarmelCast explores the life of St. Teresa of Avila, foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and Doctor of the Church. In this episode, we are joined by Fr. Steven Payne, OCD to discuss the foundations of the first Discalced Carmelite nuns and friars.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

This season of CarmelCast explores the life of St. Teresa of Avila, foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and Doctor of the Church. In this episode, we are joined by Fr. Mark O'Keefe, OSB to discuss mystical experiences and spiritual direction in the life of St. Teresa.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

This season of CarmelCast explores the life of St. Teresa of Avila, foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and Doctor of the Church. In this episode, we are joined by Fr. Daniel Chowning, OCD to discuss the importance of conversion in the life of St. Teresa.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

This season of CarmelCast explores the life of St. Teresa of Avila, foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and Doctor of the Church. In this episode, we are joined by Fr. Marc Foley, OCD to discuss a period of 18 years in which St. Teresa struggled with physical illness, worldly attachments, and difficulties in prayer.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

This season of CarmelCast explores the life of St. Teresa of Avila, foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and Doctor of the Church. In this episode we discuss her background, childhood, and vocation to Carmel.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

Fr. Mark O'Keefe's new book, The Intimate Sharing of Friends, is available for pre-order today!https://www.icspublications.org/products/the-intimate-sharing-of-friends-saint-teresa-of-avila-on-prayerHear more from Fr. Mark on St. Teresa and Prayer in Episode 68: The Beginnings of Contemplative Prayer.

A life of prayer is not only lived on your knees in the chapel; it encompasses your entire life. As we wrap up this season on prayer, we sit down with Fr. Daniel Chowning, O.C.D. to discuss what St. Teresa of Avila teaches about prayer as transformation of life.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

St. John of the Cross defines contemplation as "an inflow of God into the soul."  In this episode, we discuss his teaching on how we can respond to God's invitation to contemplative prayer.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

Fr. Mark O'Keefe's new book, The Intimate Sharing of Friends, is available for pre-order today!https://www.icspublications.org/products/the-intimate-sharing-of-friends-saint-teresa-of-avila-on-prayerIn this episode, we sit down with Fr. Mark O'Keefe, OSB who shares St. Teresa of Avila's teaching on prayer, especially concerning the beginnings of more passive forms of prayer.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

What should I do during my time of prayer? How do I grow closer to Jesus in that time? In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Michael Berry, OCD who shares some of St. Teresa of Avila's wisdom concerning prayer, especially her teaching on The Prayer of Recollection.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

Distractions, drowsiness, dryness... these are struggles that we all face during our times of prayer. In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Marc Foley, OCD to discuss what St. Thérèse can teach us about how to approach these difficulties in prayer.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

Pope Francis has named this year, 2024, a year dedicated to prayer. This season of CarmelCast will examine this essential element of the spiritual life to help you go deeper in your prayer. In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Steven Payne, OCD to discuss how we can always remain in God's presence through the spiritual teaching of Br. Lawrence of the Resurrection.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

Pope Francis has named this year, 2024, a year dedicated to prayer. This season of CarmelCast will examine this essential element of the spiritual life to help you go deeper in your prayer. In this episode, we will start at the very beginning by discussing what prayer is and the fundamental virtues necessary to grow in prayer.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

St. Elizabeth of the Trinity (1880–1906) is a mystic for our times with a profound spirituality rooted in the indwelling of the Trinity. In this episode of CarmelCast, we discuss the final years of her life and her profound witness of suffering in conformity with Jesus.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]

St. Elizabeth of the Trinity (1880–1906) is a mystic for our times with a profound spirituality rooted in the indwelling of the Trinity. In this episode of CarmelCast, we discuss her Trinitarian spirituality, especially as it is manifested in her prayer to the Trinity quoted in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.For more information:http://www.icspublications.orghttp://www.discalcedcarmel.orghttp://ocdfriarsvocation.org  Contact us with comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected]