Spirituality

INTRODUCTION

Carmelite spirituality is a way of living the Gospel inspired by the Prophet Elijah, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and centuries of Carmelite saints. It is a spirituality of friendship with God, seeking His presence in daily life through prayer, community, and service.

Lay Carmelites are ordinary Catholics—single, married, widowed, retired, and working people—who are called to live the Carmelite charism in the midst of the world.

"God alone suffices."

— St. Teresa of Avila

CARMELITE PRAYER LIFE

Liturgy of the Hours

In the medieval mind, it was not a question of "Do I want to pray all the time?", but "How can I pray all the time?".

Lay Carmelites are encouraged to pray Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours.

By praying the Divine Office, we unite our voices with the prayer of the entire Church throughout the world.

Liturgy of the Hours

How to Find the Pages

Ordo

Proper

Hymns

Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina is a prayerful reading of Scripture. There are many adaptations of lectio. Previously, we used an academic (time-constrained) version, with actio. Currently, we are testing several versions in a booklet published by the Lay Carmelite Office. One of our members created a version that appears in the booklet.

• Lectio (Reading)

• Meditatio (Meditation)

• Oratio (Prayer)

• Contemplatio (Contemplation)

• Actio (Action)

This ancient practice helps us listen to God's voice through His Word.

Lectio Divina

Rubrics

Readings

CARMELITE SAINTS

We are followers of Jesus Christ. The lives of the saints inspire faith, and reveal the mystery and wonder of God.

There are over one hundred Carmelite doctors, saints, and blesseds. The Carmelite Way is a proven path to holiness. Some brothers and sisters of our saintly family include:

• St. Teresa of Avila. Doctor of the Church. Reformer. Taught that the soul is an interior castle where God dwells. Build the relationship through relentless perseverance, humble self-awareness, and consistent prayer.

• St. John of the Cross. Doctor of the Church. Reformer. Taught that true union with God requires detachment from things that distract us from God.

• St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Doctor of the Church. Referred to as "the greatest saint of modern times". Taught that true holiness is achieved through daily ordinary tasks, and accepting small sufferings.

• St. Titus Brandsma. Priest, professor, and journalist. Executed at Dachau for his vocal opposition to Nazi ideology. He is an example of active loving resistance to evil, and finding God in profound suffering.

• St. Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi. Patron Saint of Lay Carmelites. Taught that we can be close to God through deep prayer, humble service, and embracing life's trials.

• St. Simon Stock. Prior General elected at the first General Chapter. Received the Brown Scapular from Our Lady.

• St. Andrew Corsini. Bishop. Taught that no one is beyond redemption.

• St. Nuno of Saint Mary. Hero of Portugal. Had the name Maria etched on his sword. He attributed a miraculous military victory to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He is an example of devout faith, radical humility, and unswerving trust in the Divine.

Their lives demonstrate that holiness is possible in every age and circumstance.

THE CARMELITE WAY

At its heart, Carmelite spirituality is simple:

To seek God's presence through prayer, to support one another in community, and to serve Christ in the world.

Whether at home, at work, at church, or in quiet moments of prayer, we strive to live in friendship with God and to help others discover His love.

Interested in learning more?

Explore our Join Us page, or contact us to discuss your vocation.