Resource: Divine Intimacy

Don Awalt

Divine Intimacy by Father Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, O.C.D. is a classic. Arranging in daily meditations, it is as close to a comprehensive spiritual direction guide as I have seen I have enjoyed it through Lent this year. 

Father Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, O.C.D., was a Discalced Carmelite priest who became one of the most revered masters of the spiritual life. He acquired a vast knowledge of the ways that lead to holiness and to union with God. His experience with souls, whom he guided to the heights of perfection, was outstanding. He was an expert in the spiritual and mystical doctrine of St. Teresa of Jesus (Avila) and of St. John of the Cross. The Discalced Carmelite nuns of the Monastery of St. Joseph in Rome were the heirs of the Father Gabriel’s vast output of published works and private manuscripts. For ten years, he guided these nuns as their confessor and spiritual director, and it was they who helped him to arrange his material in line with the course of the liturgical year, while following the ascent of the soul to transforming union with God, or to ‘Divine Intimacy.’

"This book of meditations is meant for all priests, seminarians, religious, the devout laity, all who aspire to greater union with God: that is, to divine intimacy." - Pope John XXIII

fgh

Ah, the guy who never had time for a certain young Karol Wojtyla.[:)] 

(The latter was in Rome to write his dissertation on St John of the Cross, and Fr Gabriel was the big authority of the time. But in spite of many attempts he never managed to arrange a meeting. Except later as pope, when he visited his grave. (What a legacy, to be remembered as the guy who didn't have time for a future pope and saint.[:P]))