14th response to 3 of 4

Everything that happens in our life is an opportunity for an encounter with God. How do we respond? Do we try to tend towards union with Him?

Group #25 responded:

Need to let people know that these kinds of tension, no matter what they are, to show members positive and creative way to Christ. All different actions, encounter with Christ and let them see how virtue plays roll.
Everything opportunity to unite with God (dealing with other people, etc).
Try to Jesus in everybody – all made in likeness of God.
How do we transform? Teach Lectio – meditation.
Live duality – getting together soft- when walk out door is problem – encounter with God everywhere; not compartmentalized.
Seeing Jesus in person – see that person in Jesus (shift) need to find it.
One of things that helps solve tension is holy hour everyday- tension disappears. If people can see results in life, they will know. Sermon in itself.
Focus on answer instead of problem.
Exposition – time just goes – day goes better – more energy and patience.
If have Christ in you, so peaceful because know have helper.
Br. Lawrence – Practice the Presence of God – found Our Lord at all times – more he knew, simpler he got.
Dream about in sleep – prayers.

Go back to 1st question – secular order growing much faster – different pathways to holiness for laity.
So much negative going on, seculars powerhouse in world.
Grown so much – need formators at all levels – need to be well formed and willing to serve.
Inner desire of people hungry for God. Who will find Carmel because of spirituality and need to be well formed enough to instruct.
Where would we be without nuns or friars? It is essential to have friars and wish had more input of nuns.
Vatican II all about don’t inhibit laity – make them a bigger part and delegate. As Carmelite seculars offer unique opportunities to access public. Friars addressing people who come to well. Seculars in world and offer paved road to well. Community deeper spiritual life – reasons people come. Give Gospel message in world. Let tension begin.
Had guru for 10 years – mysticism
John Paul II – where Eastern spirituality stops, Carmelite spirituality begins.
Plant seeds with individuals – won’t know where going. They seek more and more.
Carmel was by invitation from God (opportunity) and rest is discernment. Safe harbor -Is God’s (not mine).
True for all of us in different ways. Many people don’t even know what Carmelites are or that they exist.
God uses us.
Priest asked “what are Carmelites?”
As Catholics, don’t show faith. Ask people to attend Catholic church. Afraid of crossing boundaries.
People lead very immoral lives. Corporate America. Icons on desk. Anything to invite conversation.
Life is witness.
Likes being a Carmelite. Good life.
OCDS feels like coming home.
Holy Spirit at work.