What if the secret to spiritual growth is not striving to be a person of love, but letting go of the need to try? In this session, join Carmelite friar Matthew Blake to explore the paradoxes of the contemplative life. Together, we’ll discuss how authentic living allows love and virtue to flow naturally, the role of suffering in spiritual maturity, and why the spiritual journey is less about achievement and more about embracing the unknown. Matthew will share insights on detachment, finding God in the small things, and how true freedom is discovered when we stop trying to control the path.

Speaker bio: Born in Ireland 1962. A member of Carmelite Order since 1981. A priest since 1988. From 1989 to today has been working in UK. Mostly in area of retreats and spiritual direction. Has also worked in parishes. Mainly interested in Carmelite Spirituality and making that better known.