Interior Castle (part 5): Fourth Dwelling Place; Transition & Transformation

Carmelite Conversations

This is an exciting mansion as God begins to take the lead becoming much more active in the soul, while the soul becomes more passive and receptive to God, more fully surrendering to Him, especially in prayer. It is the beginning of the mystical life with the gifts of infused contemplation. These degrees of prayer are called “infused recollection” and “prayer of quiet” (spiritual delight). In this conversation, we discuss what these degrees of prayer are like and what their effects are. We also detail the differences between “consolations” in prayer in comparison to “spiritual delights.” St. Teresa of Avila also tells us that the best way to be predisposed for these gifts and favors is NOT to strive for them! We go over the reasons why. Additionally, we discuss the complementary counsels from St. John of the Cross on what 3 signs must be present for a soul to understand God is calling them to leave discursive meditation and open themselves up to receive the gift of infused contemplation. Finally, we go over St. Teresa’s warnings about false experiences of prayer along with the battles the devil forges on the soul in this fourth dwelling place.