Embedded Files
A community rooted in prayer and friendship
A community rooted in prayer and friendship
Lay Carmelites walk the journey together - supporting one another in prayer, faith, and daily life. Begin with a friendly conversation.
COMMUNITY LIFE
COMMUNITY LIFE
The Last Few Weeks
The Last Few Weeks
Sat, Mar 21, 2026: We attended the Annual Regional Lenten Day of Recollection, led by Fr Eugene O'Reilly, CSsR. You've sung his songs and attended his missions for decades. Some of our community members were able to get a photo with him at the end of the day (for privacy reasons, a cartoonized version of a real photo is shown above).
Coming Soon
Coming Soon
Thu, Apr 16, 2026: Craft Night. We will be making leather prayer bracelets. The concept: whenever you feel or see the bracelet, it reminds you to pray for your prayer partner or other intentions. The workbench and woodworking tools will be available, so anyone who did not complete their crucifix in the fall, can continue working on it.
Sat, May 2, 2026: Guest Speaker. Currently, for Ongoing Formation, we are reading Fr Mark O'Keefe, OSB's book The Way of Transformation: St Teresa of Avila on the Foundation and Fruit of Prayer. We are excited to have him speak to us at our May Monthly Meeting.
WHO WE ARE
WHO WE ARE
Carmelite spirituality is lived together.
As Lay Carmelites, we belong to a community of ordinary people who support one another in prayer, growth, and daily life.
We are men and women of different ages and backgrounds—married, single, working, and retired—united by a shared desire to grow closer to God.
Some of us have been walking this path for many years. Others are just beginning.
What we share is simple:
a desire for prayer, a love of God, and a commitment to walk together.
LIFE IN COMMUNITY
LIFE IN COMMUNITY
Community in Carmel is simple and real.
It is:
A place to be welcomed and known
A space to share the journey of faith
A source of encouragement and support
In community, we learn to listen, to grow, and to love more deeply.
OUR GATHERINGS
OUR GATHERINGS
Our monthly gathering is the heart of our shared life.
A typical meeting includes:
liturgical prayer
Scripture-based prayer, reflection, and sharing
formation (learning about Carmelite spirituality)
fellowship and conversation
The atmosphere is simple, peaceful, and welcoming.
WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE?
WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE?
Many who visit us are unsure what to expect. What they often discover is something quiet and genuine: no pressure, no expectations, a place to simply be present.
Over time, people often describe the community as a place of peace, friendship, and spiritual growth.
VOICES FROM OUR COMMUNITY
VOICES FROM OUR COMMUNITY
"I discovered what feels like the perfect community. I am truly honored to have such kind, generous, and spiritually grounded people as my brothers and sisters. From the very first meeting, I felt at home, and I couldn't be happier."
- Andolf, Candidate, 1 year
"My journey with this community has been amazing. From the beginning, the Carmelite family received me with warmth and genuine love."
- Mariana, Received Candidate, 3 years
"I feel blessed to be part of this wonderful group of people. The graces I have received by learning and living Carmelite Spirituality are beyond measure. "
- Stephen, Final Professed Member, 10 years
"Carmel is home. It took me awhile to find it, but once I did, the best way to describe it is, 'I’m home.'"
- Mary Jean, Final Professed Member, 16 years
"It continues to be one of the greatest blessings of my life, and a beautiful vocation for lay people who long for God in the midst of everyday life."
- Daniel, Final Professed Member, 37 years
JOINING THE COMMUNITY
JOINING THE COMMUNITY
The first step is not attending a meeting, but connecting with us. We begin with a friendly conversation so we can get to know you, answer your questions, and help you discern whether this path may be a good fit.
We are one of several Lay Carmelite communities serving the Greater Toronto Area.
If you are searching for Lay Carmelites near you in the Greater Toronto Area, we welcome you to connect with us.
Prayer. Community. Service. Carmel.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse