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An interesting synthesis of Lay
Carmelite spirituality was written by Fr. Patrick McMahon,
OCarm and published in Carmel in the World Magazine.
It is now available online and is entitled "Nine
Themes in Carmelite Spirituality".
PRAYER
Lay Carmelites seek God's presence in prayer
while living an active life in the world. This duality of contemplative prayer
and active ministry was modeled by the first Carmelites who lived as
hermits on Mount Carmel, then later became mendicants in the cities of
Europe.
Daily prayer for the
Lay Carmelite includes:
Celebration of the Eucharist
Liturgy of the Hours (Morning and Evening Prayer)
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