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What is the foundation of Carmelite life?

The following principles of the Rule of Saint Albert, written for the hermits on Mount Carmel in the 13th century, guide Carmelite life today: (below is a bulleted list)

  • Living in allegiance to Jesus Christ
  • Being diligent in meditating on the law of the Lord
  • Giving time to spiritual reading
  • Participating in the liturgy of the church, both the Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours
  • Arming themselves with the practice of the virtues
  • Seeking interior silence and solitude
  • Using prudent discretion in all that they do.

(from “Constitutions of the Secular Order of the Teresian Carmel,” 2003)

What are the obligations that are part of the rhythm of the Secular Carmelite’s life?

  • Meditation. A suggestion is 30 minutes each day.
  • Morning Prayer, Evening Prayer and, if possible, Night Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours.
  • Mass. Daily, if possible.
  • Mary. Every day, Seculars express devotion to Mary. Their primary devotion is to imitate Mary in “reflecting on [all these things] in her heart” (Luke 2:19).
  • Meetings. Seculars are called to communities whose members have made a commitment to one another. Meetings consist of formation, information and fellowship.
  • Mission. Seculars share in the Carmelite mission of knowing God so God can be known.

How do I become a Discalced Carmelite Secular?

The entire period of formation commonly requires about six years.

Selective Focus of Candlestick Near Bible With Catholic Rosary in Dark With Sunlight

Aspirancy

Attendance at 12 monthly meetings of the community is required, so the Aspirant may be supported by its members as he or she learns more about Secular life and discerns whether he or she has a vocation to the order.

First Period of Formation

A minimum of two years is required for study and growth in prayer, the apostolate and community life. At the end of this time, the council of the community may invite the candidate to make a Temporary Promise of poverty, chastity and obedience to the order.

Close-up hands of the praying man in the church

Second Period of Formation

At least three years precedes the Definitive Promise. Either period of formation may be extended if the council and the individual in formation agree that doing so is in the best interest of the candidate.

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