Our Eternal Relationship

Many years ago, Joseph V. McCarthy dreamed a revelation that shattered his world-view and altered his life direction forever. After nine years as a correctional officer in the prison system, Joe left for a monastic life at Tarrawarra Abbey in Victoria, Australia. He lived as a monk for six years, immersed in a life of spiritual contemplation. During this time, he was introduced to “A Course in Miracles”. It’s message of divinity as a tangible force in the world prompted Joe to reflect on its presence in the wider community beyond the cloister.


Joe left the monastery and eventually became a training officer for emergency services in a rural/tourist area. While engaged in lost person searches; flood, cliff and car crash rescues; and more, he witnessed tragic misfortune and miraculous survival. His eyes were opened to the fragility of this precious life.


In his role as a spiritual director, and later as pastoral carer in a hospital, Joe realised the deep longing in all human hearts for spiritual meaning and peace. He was inspired to write ‘Our Eternal Relationship’, which shares the key insights and contemplations that were so transformative in his journey.


From prison officer to monk to emergency rescuer to pastoral carer for the sick and dying, Joseph V. McCarthy has not flinched from witnessing life’s darkest pits of despair. He believes, “There is not a person in this world who does not deserve our sympathy,” and he offers simple steps towards a life of spiritual integrity and contribution, free of religious dogma.