Spirituality of Carmel

The Discalced Carmelites are known for a rich and profound spirituality rooted in contemplative prayer and a deep commitment to interiority. Our way of life, reformed in the 16th century by Saints Teresa of Ávila and John of the Cross, emphasizes a direct and personal relationship with God.

At the heart of Discalced Carmelite spirituality is the practice of contemplative prayer, which is not simply reciting prayers but rather a focused, loving attention to God’s presence within. This prayer aims to move beyond intellectual reasoning to a deeper union with God through love. Saints Teresa and John taught that this journey involves stages, from vocal prayer to quiet recollection, and ultimately to a profound experience of God’s transforming love.

Key Elements of Discalced Carmelite Spirituality:

• Detachment and Simplicity: Discalced Carmelites live a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience, emphasizing detachment from material possessions and worldly desires. This simplicity of life is seen as conducive to greater freedom for prayer and a deeper reliance on God.
• Fraternal Charity: While primarily contemplative, the Discalced Carmelites also emphasize the importance of community life and charity towards one another. Their prayer is not solely for personal gain but is offered for the Church and the world.
• Mariology: A strong devotion to the Virgin Mary is integral to Carmelite spirituality, with Mary seen as a model of contemplation and faithfulness. The brown scapular is a widely recognized symbol associated with the Carmelite order and its Marian devotion.

In essence, Discalced Carmelite spirituality is a demanding yet deeply rewarding path that calls individuals to an intimate relationship with God through silent prayer, self-knowledge, and a willingness to undergo profound spiritual transformation. It is a spirituality that seeks God not just in external practices but, preeminently, within the depths of the human soul.