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 So I say now that all of us who wear this holy habit of Carmel are called to prayer and contemplation. This call explains our origin; we are the descendents of men who felt this call, of those holy fathers on Mount who is such great solitude. sought this treasure, this precious pearl of contemplation. St. Teresa of Jesus |
The Origins of the Carmelite Order
These hermits received a rule of life from St. Albert of Jerusalem, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem. (The large painting in the refectory depicts this scene.) St. Albert encouraged them to ponder the Scriptures unceasingly and to lead a life of continual prayer in silence and solitude. The first Carmelites sought also to "put on the armor of God," as they lived an intense life of faith, hope and charity. The Carmelites lived in a spirit of evangelical self-denial and a generous commitment to work, as modeled by Paul the Apostle. They came together daily for the celebration of the sacred liturgy; entering into a genuine sharing of life; having at heart the good of the community and the salvation of souls; and, holding to the guidance of a superior who served his brothers. From Mt. Carmel, the Carmelite hermits migrated to Europe. They were granted "mendicant" status. As mendicants, they received permission to beg alms in the name of the Church. The only way to support themselves in their service to the Church was through begging. They lived from the generosity of others, trusting God. The Church, in turn, entrusted the Carmelite Order to preach the word of God and to promote of the devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, while at the same time remaining true to their spirit of contemplative prayer. The Carmelite Order eventually grew to include monasteries of contemplative nuns, as well as laity associated with the Order. The friars today continue that mission and dependence God. It is only through the generosity of donors that the Order receives the funds necessary for their continued support. |
The first Carmelites were a group of Crusaders who, at the end of their military service, remained in the Holy Land, pledging allegiance to Jesus, as their one true Lord. They lived as a community of hermits on Mt. Carmel, a place associated with the prophet Elijah. They constructed a chapel on the site, dedicating it to the Blessed Virgin Mary. They became known as the Brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mt. Carmel, or "Carmelites."