Spirituality

Rooted in the Biblical Tradition

“As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand ….” (1Kings 17:1)

The biblical tradition of the Carmelite Order is firmly rooted in following the example of the prophet Elijah on Mount Carmel. Elijah lived constantly in the presence of God, zealously working for the true and only God. The concepts of seclusion and engagement, as heard in our hearts, guide our faith journey.

“I have been most zealous for the LORD, the God of hosts …” (1Kings 19:10)

In the Search for God

“God is so great, that it is well worth looking for Him the whole life.” (St. Teresa of Jesus)

Faith, hope, and love are dynamic powers for living a spiritual life. They are not the products human efforts, but gifts from God.

Faith is the attitude that we recognize that God surpasses all human possibilities, that we seek Him as the Incomprehensible and the greater One, while remaining aware of His presence and closeness to us.

In Hope our eyes are directed toward the life to come. Hope directs our human longing towards the vision of God in eternal glory promised by Holy Scripture: “We shall see Him as He is.” (1 Jn 3:2)

“Merciful love” is God’s very nature, as revealed to us by our Lord Jesus Christ, enabling us to give Him our loving response.

In Friendship with God

The belief that God lives within us enables us to maintain friendship with Him always and everywhere, even in the midst of everyday life. God’s omnipresence means that He is always with us, including “walking among the cooking pots.” (St. Teresa of Jesus)

Friendship with our living and loving God means a fulfilling life:

“It is this intimacy with Him 'within' that has been the beautiful sun illuminating my life.” (Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity)

Contemplating Mary

“Do whatever He tells you.” (Jn 2:5)

Our name “Sisters of Mary of Mount Carmel” reminds us of Mary, our sister in faith. She teaches us how to focus on Jesus, living our lives in a trusting spiritual relationship with our hidden yet present God. Like Mary we aim to lead simple lives, remaining open and available to God’s will.

The Carmelite tradition opens further avenues to Mary:

“Queen and Grace of Carmel” – reveals to us her grandeur and beauty

“Our Lady of Mount Carmel” – ensures us that she will accompany us on our journey

“Mother of Carmel” – grants us her security and protection

In Silence - Living in the Present Moment

Stillness means external and internal “silence”. It interrupts our mental preoccupation with everything and allows us an inner openness and receptivity through which God can communicate with us. It is the way to truly engage ourselves, other people, and God.

With our Carmelite Saints as Companions Following the examples set by our saints, we endeavour to lead a contemplative life in which prayer, work, and life in a sisterly community are connected. Our saints have shown us in many ways how rewarding it is to journey with God.