Life of an OCDS

LITURGICAL PRAYER

We seek, within the limits imposed by the secular state, to participate in daily Mass whenever possible. Joining in the liturgical prayer of the Church, we commit to praying Morning and Evening Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours in union with the universal Church each day.

MEDITATION

We practice mental prayer at least 30 minutes each day in an atmosphere of interior silence and solitude. This is our time to be alone, and strengthen our relationship, with God so we can be true witnesses to His presence in the world. Daily spiritual reading, including Scripture and Lectio Divina, is highly encouraged.

MARIAN

We practice devotion to the Virgin Mary, Mother of God. She is our model, par excellence, of the contemplative life and what it means to be a true disciple of the Lord. We wear the Brown Scapular (or medal) daily and engage in Marian devotions (rosary, Angelus, Litany of Loreto, etc.) We practice and promote special devotion to St. Joseph, Protector of Carmel, as St. Teresa highly recommended.

MEETINGS

Faithful attendance at the monthly community meeting is of paramount importance in the lives of Secular Carmelites. It is here that we receive our lifelong Formation in the Teresian Carmel as well as spiritual nourishment, support and opportunity for growth among our fellow OCDS. Community meetings are normally held on a weekend and are around 4 hours in duration. Participation in an annual retreat and day of recollection is also expected, whenever possible.

APOSTOLATE

"Individually, or as a community, and above all as members of the Church, apostolic activity is the fruit of prayer." (Const. 25) "Secular Carmelites, in response to the Church and the Order, are to set about spreading Carmelite spirituality ... to address the need in the Church for authentic spirituality and prayer as found in the teachings of St. Teresa, St. John of the Cross and St. Therese." (Statute 25)