Fr. Mark-Mary, CFR reads The Practice of the Presence of God, a short but powerful account from the life of Brother Lawrence. This collection of conversations, sayings, and letters from Brother Lawrence inspires us to speak to God always from the depth of our heart, no matter where we are in the spiritual life.
21 sessions
1IntroductionFr. Mark-Mary introduces some of the main themes from The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence and shares why it has been a spiritual classic for over 400 years.Presence of God
2PrefaceListen and pray with the brief preface to the writings of Brother Lawrence.Presence of God
3First ConversationIn this first recorded conversation, Brother Lawrence shares the story of how he was "perfectly set loose from the world" by God. Presence of God
4Second ConversationIn this conversation, Brother Lawrence reassures us that simplicity is the key to Divine Assistance. Presence of God
5Third ConversationIn this chapter, Brother Lawrence shares his experience of "loving God only." Presence of God
6Fourth Conversation Brother Lawrence explains how to go to God regularly, in prayer and praise, throughout our daily life. Presence of God
7First LetterIn his first letter, Brother Lawrence shares how he made practicing the presence of God a habit. Presence of God
8Second LetterBrother Lawrence expands on the idea of seeking only God throughout the day. Presence of God
9Third LetterBrother Lawrence writes to a soldier friend, encouraging him to trust in God. Presence of God
10Fourth LetterBrother Lawrence encourages his correspondent to press on in practicing the presence of God. Presence of God
11Fifth LetterBrother Lawrence writes to a sister who is about to make a vow and profession. Presence of God
12Sixth LetterBrother Lawrence writes this letter as a way to encourage perseverance. Presence of God
13Seventh LetterBrother Lawrence writes to a friend, encouraging them to "live and die with God." Presence of God
14Eighth LetterBrother Lawrence instructs on what to do when our mind wanders during prayer. Presence of God
15Ninth LetterListen and pray with Brother Lawrence's ninth letter, in which he reminds the reader it is "our only business to please God." Presence of God
16Tenth LetterBrother Lawrence writes to a friend who has suffered a great loss, reminding us to turn toward God in times of loss. Presence of God
17Eleventh LetterBrother Lawrence encourages us to trust that God is the physician of our body and soul. Presence of God
18Twelfth LetterBrother Lawrence's twelfth letter focuses our attention on the fact that God never leaves us alone. Presence of God
19Thirteenth LetterBrother Lawrence writes about suffering and God's nearness to us in our suffering. Presence of God
20Fourteenth LetterBrother Lawrence shares his gratitude for the consolations that come from suffering. Presence of God
21Fifteenth LetterBrother Lawrence writes this, his last letter, one week before he died. He exhorts us to know God always. Presence of God