THIRD ORDER CARMELITES
"Prayer is nothing else than an intimate sharing between friends ; it means taking time frequently to be alone with Him who we know loves us."
— St. Teresa of Avila
Living the Way of the Third Order Carmelites
The Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS) welcomes men and women from all walks of life who feel called to live a life of prayer, community, and devotion to God, while remaining fully engaged in the world. In special communion with the Carmelite friars and nuns, Secular Carmelites follow the example and teaching of the Carmelite saints, striving to grow closer to the Lord through daily meditation on His Word.
Whether married or single, young or old, each member seeks to live God’s love in their everyday life—wherever He leads and with the people He places in their path.
What spiritual practices and commitments guide the life of a Secular Carmelite?
According to the OCDS Constitutions and Provincial Statutes, a Secular Carmelite strives to:
Devote at least a half-hour each day to mental prayer or personal dedication.
Pray Morning and Evening Prayers from the Liturgy of the Hours, and, if possible, Night Prayer before retiring.
Wear the Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel as a sign of devotion to Mary and her Order.
Honor Mary through a particular act of devotion; the Rosary is especially recommended.
Attend daily Mass, whenever possible.
Value the Sacrament of Penance and receive it frequently.
Engage in an active apostolate in service to others.
Fasting and Special Observances
In addition to observing the days of fasting and abstinence prescribed by the Church in the USA, and following the encouragement of our bishops “to prepare for each Church festival by a day of particular self-denial, penitential prayer and fasting” (NCCB Pastoral Statement, 1966), Secular Carmelites observe the following days unless excused by illness or age:
St. Joseph the Worker – May 1
Our Lady of Mount Carmel – July 16
The Prophet Elijah – July 20
St. Thérèse of Lisieux – October 1
Holy Mother St. Teresa of Jesus – October 15
All Carmelite Saints – November 14
Holy Father St. John of the Cross – December 14
Fasts follow the usual Church rules: one full meal is permitted, along with two smaller meals whose combined quantity does not equal a full meal. If a fast day falls on a Sunday, no fast is observed.
What is the Brown Scapular?
Read the ArticleThe Brown Scapular is not a good luck charm, amulet, or talisman. Rather, it is a sacramental, a visible sign of devotion and a commitment of obedience to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, whose feast we celebrate on July 16. Below, you'll find a great article by Bishop Robert Barron—5 Things to Know About Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and the Brown Scapular
What is the formation process for becoming a Secular Carmelite?
Formation prepares individuals to live the charism and spirituality of Carmel, following Christ in service and guided by Discalced Carmelite principles.
Those exploring the Secular Carmelite vocation are considered Visitors. Visitors receive a Vocation Brochure and may attend a restricted visit. After three meetings, the Council may invite them to begin Aspirancy, the first step in formal formation.
The Aspirancy period typically lasts one year, culminating in a Clothing Ceremony where the ceremonial Brown Scapular is presented. Candidates then continue formation for two years in preparation for the First/Temporary Promise, followed by three more years leading to the Final/Definitive Promise.
At each stage, the Council discerns the candidate’s vocation. Ongoing formation is the responsibility of all Definitely Promised members, supporting a lifelong growth in Carmelite spirituality.
