Directed by Dr. Angie Neumann, PhD, MA, LMFT, MTS, STL

Chaplain: Fr. John Gallas

*This retreat is open to priests and deacons

Drawing from the summit of St. John of the Cross’s mystical teaching—The Living Flame of Love—this retreat will prepare contemplatives for the difficult, joyful, and transformative journey into deeper union with God.

Together, we will revisit the three signs of the beginning of contemplation and explore how to understand and navigate the various forms of contemplative prayer. We will consider practical questions that arise along the way: How should one understand and respond to distractions? How can we discern what God may be doing in seasons of darkness, dryness, trial, and temptation? And how might we endure—and even embrace—the uniquely personal storms that often accompany the journey toward deeper union?

Through a deep dive into the Divine Heart, the retreat will illuminate the profound workings of grace in the contemplative life. Drawing upon the wisdom of St. John of the Cross, along with practical examples and stories, participants will gain both a richer understanding of the mystical journey and concrete tools for persevering faithfully through its challenges.

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.

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