Nearly four hundred years ago, the great Carmelite reformers St. Teresa

of Jesus and St. John of the Cross responded to God's call to return to their original Carmelite roots, a way of life animated by contemplative prayer under the protection of Mary, the Mother of God.

Secular Carmelites are Catholic men and women, either married or single, lay or clerical, who live out this heritage of contemplative prayer in daily life. While going about their everyday occupations, secular Carmelites give witness to the value of prayer and contemplation in a world that is seeking intimacy with God.

Following in their footsteps, generations of Carmelites have realized in the Carmelite way of life a means of developing a close relationship with God and a wonderful foundation for serving God's people.

If you are eighteen years or older and intrigued by...

• A centuries-old tradition which encourages growth in closeness to God in every aspect of life in today's world

• A Rule of Life and a formation program that fosters the Carmelite tradition of prayer and Teresian spirituality in a way appropriate for lay persons

• Participating in monthly meetings with a community of other spiritually-minded men and women, who share a common interest in prayer, and a

• Special association with the Discalced Carmelite Friars with the opportunity for spiritual guidance

...then, consider becoming a Secular Carmelite!