| What is the Lay Carmelite Order? The Lay Carmelite Order is the secular branch of the Order of Carmel which includes, for the most part, all Catholic lay people throughout the world who follow the Carmelite Rule. "The Lay Carmelite is a true member of the Order of Carmel. He/she shares in the unique spirit if the Carmelite family and, led by the Holy Spirit, has an influence on the life of the entire Family." (cf.Rule, art.1) What are the benefits of becoming a Lay Carmelite? A Lay Carmelite becomes a true member of the Carmelite Order and shares in the unique spirit and charism of the Carmelite family. By their Call to Carmel, members receive graces and gifts needed in their becoming Carmelite. To be a Lay Carmelite is to be a person of deepening prayer, especially loving the Blessed Virgin, who combines an interior life with an active life of service for Christ. Lay Carmelites share in the prayers, Masses, fasting, acts of self-denial, apostolic works and spiritual advantages of the Carmelite Order. Membership provides tutoring in prayer out of the rich heritage of Carmel's spiritual masters: St. John of the Cross, St. Teresa of Avila, St. Therese of Lisieux, St. Mary Magdalen de Pazzi, John of St. Samson, Michael of St. Augustine, and the more recent Carmelites: Bl. Titus Brandsma, Bl. Edith Stein, and Bl. Elizabeth of the Trinity. Moreover, Lay Carmelites receive encouragement and inspiration from members of their own community who share similar ideals and are most helpful in nurturing the development of newer Lay Carmelites. As Lay Carmelites, Catholic Charismatics preserve their identity and are encouraged to practice prayer and exercise their charismatic gifts as appropriate to the needs of their Lay Carmelite Community. What are the requirements for admission? A pre-candidate is a practicing Catholic, seeking spiritual guidance in Christian living. Potential members also need a special love for Our Blessed Lady, and must be 17 years old. What are the requirements after admission? Lay Carmelites wear the Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel as a witness of the commitment made in Carmel. A Scapular Medal however may be worn in its place. Daily Mass and Communion. Spend some time in daily prayer, and to do this in a way most meaningful. Prayer of Lay Carmelites includes: Morning/Evening Prayer, as the official prayer of the Church; reflective prayer and reading; and praying the Rosary. Frequent reading of Sacred Scripture for a deeper knowledge of God and for a greater knowledge of our faith. Study of the New Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Documents of Vatican II are also recommended. Regular attendance at monthly meetings is heartily encouraged as a way of growing and sharing in Carmel's community life. An annual retreat and/or days of recollection are recommended. Also, programs in Carmelite Studies, spiritual and catechetical workshops, and parish programs can be of further value. |
| Lay Carmelites |
| December 28, 2002 |
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| For more information on the Lay Carmelites contact one of the offices below or send a message to this homepage by E-mail! |
| Lay Carmelite Center 8501 Bailey Rd Darien, IL 60561 (630) 969-5050 FAX (630) 969-5536 |
| Office of Lay Carmelites St. Eliseus Priory PO Box 27 Tappan, N.Y. 10983-0027 (845) 359-0535 FAX (845) 359-0856 |