A Two-Part Immersive Exploration into the Heart of the Carmelite Tradition
As part of our continuing series delving into the rich spiritual traditions of Catholic religious orders, The Tablet invites you to a two-part webinar exploring Carmelite spirituality—a tradition rooted in silence, interior prayer, and the radical pursuit of union with God.
Led by Fr Matthew Blake OCD – A Roman Catholic priest and National Director of the Carmelite Secular Order, Fr Matthew Blake brings decades of lived experience in the Carmelite tradition. His warm and insightful teaching offers a rare chance to both learn about and taste the richness of Carmelite life.
Part I – The Theory of Carmelite Spirituality
Thursday, 25th September 2025
6.00pm – 7.00pm BST
What makes Carmelite spirituality distinct?
Rooted in the ancient tradition of hermits on Mount Carmel and inspired by the prophet Elijah, Carmelite spirituality centres on the interior journey toward God through prayer, contemplation, silence, and solitude.
In this session, Fr Matthew Blake will guide us through the theological and historical foundations of this 900-year-old tradition, shaped profoundly by saints such as Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, and Thérèse of Lisieux. We’ll explore key themes including:
- The call to interior silence in a noisy world
- The transforming power of contemplative prayer
- Detachment, humility, and trust as spiritual tools
- The balance of solitude and service, prayer and action
Part II – The Practice of Carmelite Spirituality
Friday, 26th September 2025
6.00pm – 7.00pm BST
This session brings theory into lived experience. Through a guided time of prayer, silence, and reflection, Fr Matthew will invite us to step into the heart of Carmelite spirituality. Participants will be led in practices inspired by the Carmelite tradition, including:
- Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading)
- Guided silent contemplation
- Reflections from the writings of Teresa, John, and Thérèse
- Practical ways to integrate contemplative spirituality into daily life
This is more than a webinar—it is an invitation to pause, to breathe, and to encounter God in silence.
Let the wisdom of the Carmelite tradition draw you closer to the Divine.