Book Study: Highlights
St. Teresa reminds us: those who persevere not only advance themselves but also lead many others to Heaven.
Our first and second book study sessions exploring The Devil in the Castle were rich with insight and honesty. If you weren’t able to join us, here are a few takeaways:
Session 1: Foreword and Introduction
Struggles with Self-Worth
We reflected on the feeling of never doing enough and how surrendering to Christ, rather than striving alone, opens the door to healing.Forgiveness & Letting Go
Deep personal stories reminded us that forgiveness often begins by inviting Jesus into the pain we cannot resolve ourselves.Obstacles in Prayer
From distractions during Mass to laziness in routine, we named our “poisonous lizards” and began to imagine more grace-filled habits.The Power of Virtues
Many were struck by the importance of practicing the right virtue, not just the opposite of a vice. The Catechism of the Catholic Church and St. Thomas Aquinas’ Treatise on Virtues were recommended resources.
“If we never look at Him or think of what we owe Him, and of the death which He suffered for our sakes, I do not see how we can get to know Him or do good works in His service.”
Session 2: The Battles of the First Mansion
Conviction & Humility:
Many of us realized that we may still be in the First Mansion, a place of early spiritual awakening and spiritual fragility.
Distractions & Vices:
Technology, especially phones, can be a common hindrance to our spiritual lives - especially our spiritual growth.Mental Prayer & Daily Examen:
Jennifer shared how the book convicted her about establishing daily mental prayer and now, adding the Daily Examen as the next essential practice for self-awareness and growth.Violence to Self:
Our discussion even touched on the phrase “does violence to himself”, and Jennifer clarified its Carmelite roots—intentional self-denial, detachment from sin and even good things that hinder closeness to God.Spiritual Warfare:
Participants opened up about having intrusive thoughts during Mass and prayer. Jennifer reminded the group that these attacks often come from the enemy and are not sins if not consented to.The Danger of “Nice Christianity”:
Participants reflected on the quote, “The demons are very happy with ‘nice Christians,’” discussing how cultural Christianity lacks the sacrificial commitment needed for true spiritual progress.Reptiles in Outer Court
This metaphor stirred curiosity and discussion. It was interpreted as symbolizing sins, attachments, and demonic influences that hinder entry into a deeper spiritual life. One participant even shared a powerful childhood story that illuminated the idea further about sisters who, when they spoke, either frogs or jewels fell from their mouths.Purgatory & Mary’s Role
We discussed what final perseverance looks like, the danger of the last temptation, and the importance of confession, while acknowledging and finding hope in Mary as our advocate and spiritual protector.Spiritual Resolutions
Jennifer challenged everyone to choose one practical spiritual resolution:Regular mental prayer or Daily Examen
Reducing distractions
Going deeper in confession
Offering up suffering or temptation
Persevering in prayer during spiritual dryness or fear
In Closing
Jennifer reminded everyone that spiritual growth doesn’t happen accidentally—it takes commitment. The session ended with encouragement to continue the journey with intentionality, prayer, and support from one another.
“The demons are very happy with ‘nice Christians’ but not with Christians who are ready to become brave warriors standing against the demons’ nefarious cause.”
