From Meditation to Contemplation – According to St. John of the Cross (3-Part Series – June 9, July 22, August 18)

Presented by: Dr. Angie Neumann

This summer series introduces participants to the wisdom of John of the Cross, particularly navigating the tumultuous beginnings of contemplative prayer. Designed for those discerning their own path and for those accompanying others as well, this series aims to illuminate both the theological depth and pastoral realism of John’s teaching.

Drawing from his major works—especially The Ascent of Mount Carmel, The Dark Night, and the Living Flame of Love—we will explore how God leads the soul from meditative effort into infused contemplation, with special attention to navigating common pitfalls and accompanying trials.

• Part I (June) considers why this transition is important and that it is not rare but common! It looks to signs that invite a simpler, more receptive way of prayer, beginning with the moral life as impetus for purification.
• Part II (July) examines purification and the so-called “dark night,” distinguishing spiritual dryness from discouragement, Ignatian desolation, and depression.
• Part III (August) turns to the transforming union toward which contemplation tends, offering pastoral and practical guidance for sustaining fidelity in prayer and how not to get discouraged when prayer becomes beguilingly simple (and distracted!).

Register!

This is a three-part series. To register for any or all of the sessions, please select the dates you would like to attend. Then complete the form below.

Dr. Angela Neumann holds a doctorate in Theology from the Gregorian University in Rome. Her dissertation, “Differentiating the Dark Night of St. John of the Cross, Ignatian Spiritual Desolation, and Clinical Depression,” explores the relationship between Carmelite and Ignatian spirituality and clinical psychology.

A certified spiritual director and licensed mental health therapist, she has 20 years of experience in ministry and clinical practice. She serves at the Saint Paul Seminary, where she teaches theology and psychology and provides counseling.

Over the years, she has served in parish ministry, at the archdiocesan level, and with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. She offers workshops on trauma, various forms of prayer, spiritual direction, and integrating psychology and spirituality with St. John of the Cross, St. Thomas Aquinas, and St. Ignatius of Loyola.