The Unitive Way – The Way of Mystery with Deacon James Keating
Deacon Keating explains how spiritual growth develops through three stages. Catholic moral teaching is not an unreachable ideal. Drawing on Pope John Paul II’s Veritatis Splendor, he says real transformation is possible because the power of Christ’s resurrection works within us. The purgative stage involves turning away from attachment to sin, often a difficult shift. The illuminative stage brings a growing attraction to virtue and inner peace. Keating uses Thomas Merton’s experience to show how grace reaches us in ordinary life—on a morning commute or after attending Mass.
The unitive stage goes further: one begins not only to love virtue but to love Christ Himself, the source of all virtue. This is like tasting heaven on earth and reflects Scripture’s nuptial imagery—God desires a relationship of love with His people. The sacramental life of the Church nourishes this union. Keating invites listeners to become attentive to God’s quiet arrivals in everyday moments: a sudden clarity, peace, or prompting of conscience. When these come, remain in that presence as long as it naturally lasts, letting grace deepen love for God and uncover anything that blocks receiving Him more fully.
Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions
- In what areas of my life do I still cling to sin, and how might I open these places to Christ’s healing power?
- When have I experienced a new affection for virtue, and how did I sense grace at work in that moment?
- Do I live as though Jesus is truly alive within me, influencing my choices and desires?
- How does the sacramental life—especially the Eucharist—deepen my relationship with Christ rather than simply improve my behavior?
- Where in ordinary life might God be quietly visiting me, and how can I become more attentive to His subtle presence?
- What attitudes or habits might be blocking me from receiving His love more fully, and how can I bring them to confession?
- How do I understand the unitive way as a relationship of love rather than an achievement of spiritual “success”?
- When I sense God’s presence, do I linger with Him as long as prudence allows, or do I rush back to distraction?
Deacon James Keating, Ph.D., is a professor of Spiritual Theology and serves as a spiritual director at Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, MO.
Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page
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