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PRAYER
Lay Carmelites seek God's presence in prayer
while living an active life in the world. This duality of silent prayer
and active ministry was practiced by the first Carmelite hermits who
migrated to Europe during the Thirteenth Century.
Lay Carmelites today practice:
Celebration of the Eucharist
Liturgy of the Hours
Lectio divina
Devotional prayers and practices of the larger Church
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"Then he told them a parable
about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming
weary ..."
- Luke 18:1 |
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COMMUNITY
Carmelites practiced a
community spirituality since their first days on Mount Carmel. Although
Lay Carmelites in North America do not live together, they congregate
for community meetings, formation lessons, special ministries, and
regional events. These gatherings are sources of encouragement to live a
Gospel way of life. |
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"They devoted themselves to the
teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the
breaking of the bread and to the prayers ..."
- Acts 2:42 |
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MINISTRY
Lay Carmelites are servants.
They are called to active participation in the ministry of the Church.
They practice stewardship - sacrificing time, talent, and treasure for
the betterment of their families, work, and society. |
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"You must give yourselves to
work of some kind ..."
- St. Albert of Jerusalem,
The Carmelite Rule 20 |
SPIRITUALITY