The Commentaries

Discover how true spiritual growth comes from small, consistent sacrifices made out of love for God and neighbor.

Be inspired by Saint Therese of Lisieux's deep longing to serve God and others.

Saint Therese of Lisieux challenges us to be agents of transformation in the world through prayer and love

Saint Therese of Lisieux's famous "Little Way" teaches us to rely on God, alleviating anxiety through trust in Him.

Learn how true charity requires action and humility, even towards those who challenge us.

Be inspired by Saint Therese of Lisieux's unwavering commitment to love and serve God, regardless of her circumstances.

Discover St. Therese of Lisieux's love in all actions, her desire for her sister to embrace a religious life, and her profound understanding of suffering as a path to joy.

St. Thérèse of Lisieux helps us understand the need for spiritual guidance, especially during times of desolation.

Learn about the deep faith of Saint Louis Martin as his 15-year-old daughter Therese leaves the family home for religious life.

Come to better appreciate the beauty of Saint Therese of Lisieux's simplicity and the richness of her devotion to God.

Discover Saint Therese of Lisieux's youthful zeal and authentic escape from worldly ties in pursuit of a life dedicated to God and the salvation of souls.

Be inspired to emulate St. Therese's childlike faith and connection with God amid the noise of modern life.

Saint Therese of Lisieux's heartfelt conversations with her father about entering the Carmelite monastery highlight her youthful determination and profound spiritual legacy.

Saint Therese of Lisieux has a pivotal moment of conversion, helps a condemned man find redemption, and emphasizes the transformative power of divine love.

Saint Therese of Lisieux's insights on love, grace, and the importance of a personal connection with God illuminate the path to spiritual growth, emphasizing the necessity of fervent communion and total consecration to Mary.

Learn to appreciate the Sacraments and cultivate a prayerful life to endure life's spiritual battles through Saint Therese of Lisieux's example.

Explore the profound suffering Saint Therese of Lisieux went through as a young child, and her miraculous healing.

Discover St. Therese's mystical encounters with nature and the importance of spiritual contemplation of the beauty of God's creation in daily life.

Saint Therese's response to tragedy as a child teaches us that facing trials with a spirit of faith and love can lead to profound spiritual growth and a foretaste of eternal happiness.

This introductory episode sets the stage for understanding St. Therese’s spiritual journey and her approach to living out her faith.

Fr. Lawrence Carney III hosts the 8th season of The Commentaries where he explores the classic spiritual autobiography of Saint Therese of Lisieux, The Story of a Soul.

This final episode underscores that The Way of Perfection is a journey of prayer, virtue, and unwavering trust in God.

Saint Teresa of Avila emphasizes the dual importance of the love and fear of God as powerful tools against temptation and sin.

Discover St. Teresa of Avila's teaching on the importance of humility and vigilance against the devil's deceitful tactics

Learn how the Lord's Prayer encompasses all aspects of perfection and contemplation, and that sincere, humble prayer opens the door to divine grace.

Saint Teresa of Avila urges a deep appreciation for Holy Communion, encouraging believers to prioritize spiritual nourishment over material concerns

St. Teresa explores the Eucharist as essential daily nourishment

Saint Teresa continues her exploration of the Lord's Prayer and encourages us to avoid distractions to deepen our spiritual experience.

Starting with the first line, Saint Teresa begins her profound exploration of the Our Father prayer.

Learn how to deepen your connection with God through Saint Teresa of Avila's teachings on vocal and mental prayer.

Be inspired in your own spiritual life with the story of how Saint Teresa of Avila reformed the Carmelite order by restoring fervor in prayer.

Discover Saint Teresa's teachings on maintaining focus on the spiritual life, avoiding worldly distractions, and remaining steadfast despite challenges.

Saint Teresa encourages us to embrace humility, obedience, and perseverance in our spiritual journey.

Discover how St. Teresa compares the game of chess to a life of prayer.

Explore Saint Teresa's teachings on detachment from worldly honor and a humble acceptance of false accusations, and find out why they are essential for a life dedicated to God.

Explore Saint Teresa's teachings on how to bear suffering with love for God and to detach from worldly goods and honors to truly walk The Way of Perfection.

Discover Saint Teresa's practical advice on spiritual love and how it can help you grow closer to God.

Explore the nature of true spiritual love, distinguishing it from worldly attachments, and learn to love God above all else while striving to bring others closer to Him.

Learn the timeless wisdom St. Teresa imparted on how to pray for Church authorities and obedience during tumultuous times.

Emphasizing detachment and poverty, St. Teresa encourages her sisters to trust in God for sustenance and to live their vocations with integrity.

Explore the life of St. Teresa of Ávila and the historical context when she wrote the spiritual classic, The Way of Perfection.

Join Fr. Timothy Reid as he guides us through another spiritual classic from St. Teresa of Ávila, The Way of Perfection.

Explore how simplicity leads to spiritual peace and humility triumphs over evil. Episode 21 covers Book 2, Chapter 4, Sections 11 & 12.

To fully trust in God's direction, we must surrender self-guidance. Episode 20 covers Book 2, Chapter 4, Sections 8-10.

Discover how divine wisdom operates in subtle ways, guiding souls toward spiritual growth and protection. Episode 19 covers Book 2, Chapter 4, Sections 4-7.

Even in spiritual darkness God's providence is steadfast. Episode 18 covers Book 2, Chapter 4, Sections 1-3.

Perceived failures and weaknesses can ultimately serve God's purpose. Episode 17 covers Book 2, Chapter 3, Sections 3-5.

Be careful to avoid unjust judgments of other based on outward appearances. Episode 16 covers Book 2, Chapter 3, Sections 1 & 2.

Discover the simplicity yet profound importance of faith. Episode 15 covers Book 2, Chapter 2, Section 8.

Learn the importance of living in the present moment and trusting in God's guidance. Episode 14 covers Book 2, Chapter 2, Sections 6 and 7.