Author Description

A collection of previous writings of Fr. John Welch in one book: Seasons of the Heart, Prayer in the Carmelite Tradition, Carmel's Holy Men and Women, the Rule of Carmel and Commentary, and finally Carmel, A School of Prayer. These selections were originally prepared for retreats and days of recollections, and a diocesan newspaper. The author offers an accessible introduction to the Carmelite tradition, and provides the reader with resources for an interior, spiritual life.Carmel Notes begins by presenting Carmel's understanding of the human heart and its infinite desires. It then introduces the three Carmelite Doctors of the Church and identifies fundamental themes in their spiritual teachings. Brief biographies follow, highlighting other major figures in the Carmelite tradition. Notes concludes with an introduction to the Rule of Carmel, an original medieval Rule written for the first Carmelites. This Rule, laced with scripture, remains richly relevant, and offers guidance for today's pilgrims who seek a life-structure. The Carmelite tradition encourages a listening heart, a contemplative attention to God's merciful presence.