St. Joseph: A Pillar of the Discalced Carmelite Spirit

St. Joseph: a powerful intercessor, a profound master of the interior life, and a dedicated patron and protector.

The extraordinary devotion to St. Joseph within the Discalced Carmelite Order is inextricably linked to St. Teresa of Avila. After experiencing a miraculous cure from a debilitating illness through his intercession, Teresa became a tireless advocate for him. She dedicated her first reformed monastery in Avila to St. Joseph (San José) and named twelve of her seventeen foundations in his honor. In her writings, particularly in her “Life” (Chapter 6), she passionately recounts his powerful intercession, stating, “I do not remember ever having asked him for anything that he has not granted… To other saints, the Lord seems to have given grace to succor us in some of our necessities; but of this glorious saint, I know by experience that he succors us in all.”

Following St. Teresa’s example, Discalced Carmelites turn to St. Joseph with great confidence for all their needs, both spiritual and temporal. He is seen not only as a guide in prayer but also as a reliable provider and protector who watches over the Order and its members. His ability to “succor in all necessities” makes him a go-to saint for every kind of petition.

Due to St. Teresa’s profound influence, St. Joseph is venerated as a special patron of the Discalced Carmelite Order. His protection is sought for the entire Carmelite family, and his feast days are celebrated with particular solemnity. He is viewed as a fatherly figure who guides the Order in its mission of prayer and service to the Church.

In essence, for Discalced Carmelites, St. Joseph is a powerful spiritual father, a master of the contemplative life, a steadfast protector, and a sure guide to a deeper intimacy with Jesus and Mary. St. Teresa’s personal experience and ardent promotion firmly established him as a cornerstone of their spiritual heritage.

“I wish I could persuade everyone to be devoted to this glorious saint, for I have great experience of the blessings which he can obtain from God. I have never known anyone to be truly devoted to him and render him particular services who did not notably advance in virtue, for he gives very real help to souls who commend themselves to him. For some years now, I think, I have made some request of him every year on his festival and I have always had it granted. If my petition is in any way ill directed, he directs it aright for my greater good.”

– St. Teresa of Avila