
by Kenneth J. Pino
In an era where digital noise often drowns out spiritual reflection, Praying Alone Together emerges as a serene online haven for those seeking a deeper connection with God. Through this blog, Fr. Tracy O’Sullivan, O. Carm., offers a rich tapestry of contemplative insights, grounded in Carmelite spirituality and the lived experiences of a seasoned pastor.
At the heart of the blog are weekly reflections aligned with the liturgical calendar. These meditations delve into Gospel narratives, drawing out themes of mercy, repentance, and divine love. For instance, the reflection on the Fifth Sunday of Lent explores the story of the adulterous woman, emphasizing Jesus’ unconditional forgiveness and the call for personal transformation. Such entries invite readers to see themselves in the biblical characters, fostering a personal engagement with Scripture.
Beyond scriptural commentary, Praying Alone Together serves as a guide for those yearning to deepen their prayer life. Fr. O’Sullivan shares personal anecdotes, like his childhood prayers for Notre Dame’s football victories, to illustrate the evolution from petitionary prayer to a more mature, contemplative practice. He emphasizes that true prayer aligns our desires with God’s will, moving us from self-centered requests to a posture of humble surrender.
Drawing from the rich well of Carmelite tradition, the blog introduces readers to the teachings of mystics like St. John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Avila. Fr. O’Sullivan distills their profound insights into accessible reflections, encouraging readers to embark on their own journeys of self-knowledge, detachment, and union with God. These writings serve as both an introduction for novices and a deepening resource for seasoned practitioners.
What sets Praying Alone Together apart is its deeply personal tone. Fr. O’Sullivan writes not as a distant theologian but as a fellow pilgrim, candidly sharing his struggles and revelations. His reflections resonate with authenticity, inviting readers into a shared journey of faith. Whether discussing the challenges of loving one’s enemies or the nuances of contemplative prayer, he offers guidance rooted in lived experience.
In a world where solitude can feel isolating, Praying Alone Together offers companionship. It’s a space where readers can pause, reflect, and realign with their spiritual center. Through its blend of scriptural exegesis, personal narrative, and mystical theology, the blog serves as a beacon for those navigating the complexities of modern faith.
For those seeking a deeper, more contemplative walk with God, Praying Alone Together stands as a testament to the enduring power of prayer and the transformative potential of solitude embraced in faith.
PRAYING ALONE TOGETHER BY THE NUMBERS
Beginning Date: Dec. 15, 2015
Number of Visitors on Dec. 31, 2019: 117,000
Daily average: 320
Number of visitors on Jan 3m 2021: 1,000,000
Daily Average: 542
Time to reach first million: Six years and eighteen days
Number of visitors on Feb. 10, 2023: 2,000.000
Daily average: 2,475
Time to reach second million: Two years and one week
Number of visitor on Jan. 1, 2024: 3,000,000
Daily average: 2,974
Time to reach third million: Ten months, three weeks and nine days
Number of visitors on Sept. 8, 2024: 4,000,000
Daily average: 3,049
Time to reach fourth million: Nine months and eight days
Number of visitors May 6, 2025: 5,000.000
Time to reach fifth million: Eight months and twenty nine days
Daily average: 4,166
The Carmelites of the Province of the Most Pure Heart of Mary, in allegiance to Jesus Christ, live in a prophetic and contemplative stance of prayer, common life, and service. Inspired by Elijah and Mary and informed by the Carmelite Rule, we give witness to an eight-hundred-year-old tradition of spiritual transformation in the United States, Canada, Peru, Mexico, and El Salvador, and Honduras.
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