The Commentaries

Latest Episodes:

Introducing The Story of the Soul with Fr. Lawrence Carney III Sep 25, 2024

Show notes

In the latest season of The Commentaries, host Fr. Lawrence Carney III begins an in-depth exploration of the classic autobiography by Saint Therese of Lisieux, The Story of a Soul. Fr. Carney emphasizes how Therese exemplifies a spiritual childhood that we can all strive for and learn from.

The first episode will be released October 1st.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Story of a Soul (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/4dPH6Wp
The Story of a Soul (Paperback): https://bit.ly/3TFUqET
The Story of a Family: The Home of St. Therese of Lisieux: https://bit.ly/3AVxoDh
30 Days with Saint Therese: https://bit.ly/3XvPAMp
Archbishop Fulton Sheen's Saint Therese:https://bit.ly/3MyP6Pt
Parents of the Saints: https://bit.ly/3Zk4pmy
Unbreakable: Saints Who Inspired Saints to Moral Courage: https://bit.ly/4cVDjp2
One Holy Marriage: The Story of Louis and Zélie Martin: https://bit.ly/4cUpR4Z
Modern Saints: Their Lives and Faces Book 2: https://bit.ly/4ef3NDh

The Commentaries is a podcast series from TAN in which you’ll learn how to read and understand history’s greatest Catholic works, from today’s greatest Catholic scholars. In every series of The Commentaries, your expert host will be your personal guide to not just read the book, but to live the book, shining the light of its eternal truths into the darkness of our modern trials and tribulations.

Hosted by Fr. Lawrence Carney III, the 8th season of The Commentaries explores The Story of a Soul by Saint Therese of Lisieux, the classic autobiography that conveys her “Little Way.” Fr. Carney delves into Therese's profound spirituality, her virtues of humility, and the importance of perseverance and piety. Discover why St. Therese has been called the greatest saint of modern times, and grow in holiness by exploring her unfailing confidence and childlike delight in God’s merciful love.

Father Lawrence Carney was ordained for the Diocese of Wichita in 2007. For five years, he walked the streets of US cities in cassock carrying a crucifix and a rosary in each hand in an effort to bring souls to the Catholic Church. In 2014, he was appointed as chaplain of the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles, where he presently serves. In 2017, he began the League of St. Martin, a pious association that prays for reverence, reparation, and reversion—the chief goals being enrollment in the Archconfraternity of the Holy Face and the Confraternity of the Holy Rosary. He is the author of the TAN book, The Secret of the Holy Face.

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

20. The Way of Perfection: Reprise of But Deliver Us from Evil, Amen Aug 13, 2024

Show notes

Father Timothy Reid wraps up our exploration by discussing Saint Teresa of Avila's reflections on the Our Father, emphasizing the importance of asking for deliverance from evil and desiring eternal union with God. St. Teresa highlights that true prayer involves both vocal and mental engagement, seeking humility, charity, and detachment as we strive for a profound connection with God. This final episode underscores that The Way of Perfection is a journey of prayer, virtue, and unwavering trust in God.

Episode 20 covers the final chapter of The Way of Perfection, chapter 42.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Timothy Reid returns as our Commentaries guide for another spiritual classic from St. Teresa of Ávila, The Way of Perfection. Originally written for her fellow sisters four centuries ago, these 20 podcast episodes filled with Christian mysticism and contemplative prayer might be more relevant today, and will no doubt enlighten your soul’s journey toward union with God.

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

19. The Way of Perfection: Love of God, Fear of God, and Venial Sins Aug 12, 2024

Show notes

Father Timothy Reid explores crucial insights from Saint Teresa of Avila for spiritual warfare. She emphasizes the dual importance of the love and fear of God as powerful tools against temptation and sin. Teresa encourages us to cultivate these virtues sincerely and warns against the subtle snares of the devil, advocating for humility, vigilance, and a deep, unwavering love for God to navigate the path to spiritual perfection.

Episode 19 covers chapters 40 and 41.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

18. The Way of Perfection: Lead Us Not into Temptation, But Deliver Us from Evil Aug 09, 2024

Show notes

Father Timothy Reid focuses Saint Teresa of Avila's teachings on the advanced spiritual life and the subtle temptations faced by contemplatives. St. Teresa emphasizes the importance of humility and vigilance against the devil's deceitful tactics, urging us to remain grounded and sincere in our pursuit of virtue. Her insights remind us that true humility and a robust prayer life are essential for overcoming spiritual challenges and growing closer to God.

Episode 18 covers chapters 38 and 39.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

17. The Way of Perfection: Forgive Us Our Trespasses and Great Consolation Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

Fr. Timothy Reid relays Saint Teresa of Avila's ideas of focusing on forgiveness and the significance of the Our Father. St. Teresa stresses that true forgiveness of others is essential for receiving the Eucharist worthily and highlights how perfect contemplation is marked by a firm resolve to forgive and an indifference to worldly honors. She concludes by affirming that the Our Father encompasses all aspects of perfection and contemplation, and that sincere, humble prayer opens the door to divine grace.

Episode 17 covers chapters 36 and 37.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

16. The Way of Perfection: Holy Communion and Spiritual Communion Aug 07, 2024

Show notes

Fr. Timothy Reid relays Saint Teresa of Avila's exploration of the Eucharist. St. Teresa emphasizes the importance of aligning one's will with God's through the Lord's Prayer and highlights the Eucharist as a vital source of spiritual strength and closeness to Christ. She urges a deep appreciation for Holy Communion, encouraging believers to prioritize spiritual nourishment over material concerns and to engage fervently in prayer and reflection after receiving the Sacrament.

Episode 16 covers chapters 34 and 35.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

15. The Way of Perfection: Thy Will Be Done and Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread Aug 06, 2024

Show notes

Fr. Timothy Reid highlights Saint Teresa of Avila’s focus on aligning one’s will with God’s, emphasizing how this submission facilitates a deeper union with the Divine. St. Teresa explores the Eucharist as essential daily nourishment, underscoring its role in strengthening believers to fulfill God’s will and deepening their relationship with Christ, despite the challenges and sacrileges it may face.

Episode 15 covers chapters 32 and 33.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

14. The Way of Perfection: Hallowed Be Thy Name; Thy Kingdom Come Aug 05, 2024

Show notes

Father Reid continues with Saint Teresa of Avila's exploration of the Lord's Prayer. St. Teresa emphasizes the importance of being mentally present and deliberate in prayer, urging us to seek divine grace with intention rather than worldly rewards. She delves into the nature of contemplative prayer, contrasting the prayer of quiet with the prayer of union, and encourages us to be receptive to God's presence, avoiding distractions to deepen our spiritual experience.

Episode 14 covers chapters 29-31.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

13. The Way of Perfection: Our Father, Who Art in Heaven Aug 02, 2024

Show notes

Saint Teresa of Avila begins her profound exploration of the Our Father prayer. Fr. Timothy Reid relays how she emphasizes the intimate relationship between God the Father and God the Son, urging her nuns to reflect deeply on their divine sonship and to see their souls as a palace for God. Teresa encourages a personal, interior dialogue with God, highlighting that true prayer involves recognizing God’s presence within ourselves and striving to purify our souls for Him.

Episode 13 covers chapters 27 & 28.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

12. The Way of Perfection: Vocal Prayer, Mental Prayer, and Collecting Thoughts Aug 01, 2024

Show notes

Fr. Timothy Reid relays how Saint Teresa emphasizes the importance of vocal prayer done with attention and understanding, which leads to a deeper connection with God. She teaches that vocal prayer, when practiced correctly, can lead to mental and contemplative prayer, where God Himself elevates the soul. Additionally, she provides guidance on preparing for mental prayer, urging readers to be present to Jesus, build a personal relationship with Him, and unite their sufferings with His.

Episode 12 covers chapters 24-26.

LEARN MORE - USE COUPON CODE COM25 FOR 25% OFF:

The Way of Perfection: https://bit.ly/3Srb4HJ
The Interior Castle (Deluxe Edition): https://bit.ly/3Y06rbc
TAN Classics Deluxe Set: https://bit.ly/3XYLbCt
The Interior Castle (Paperback Edition): https://bit.ly/3xJ1Gbh
The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Ávila: https://bit.ly/3XWGJUM
St. Teresa of Ávila: Reformer of Carmel: https://bit.ly/3zvBv8f
Conversation with Christ: The Teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila about Personal Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zzIg9b

Fr. Reid also hosted The Commentaries: The Interior Castle - https://bit.ly/4cZ3CLp

To download your FREE Classic Companion PDF and for updates about new seasons, expert scholars, and exclusive deals for The Commentaries listeners, sign up at TANcommentaries.com

And for more great ways to deepen your faith, check out all the spiritual resources available at https://TANBooks.com and use Coupon Code COM25 for 25% off your next order.

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