Third Order of Carmelites

Who is the Third Order of Carmelites?

The Third Order of Carmel is an association mainly of lay persons. Its members, responding to a special call of God, freely and deliberately commit themselves "to live in the following of Jesus Christ" according to the charism, traditions, and spirit of Carmel in union with the Prior General of the Carmelite Order. The members, though not in Religious Life, choose to live out their baptismal commitment according to the spirit of the Carmelite Order. Members are brothers and sisters of the Carmelite Family and share in the same call to holiness and in the same mission of the Carmelite Order.The Carmelite Order is enriched by the faithful who, inspired by the Holy Spirit, order their lives according to the Gospel and in the Carmelite spirit. The Third Order and the other forms of Carmelite laity influence the spirit and the structure of the entire Carmelite family (Const. 2019 n. 114)

The Third Order member is connected to the Carmelite Order by means of the promise which he or she makes. It is possible, following a very ancient custom, to make private vows of chastity and obedience according to one's state in life in order to be consecrated more closely to God.

The Third Order, filled with the spirit of the Order, seek to live their own vocation by silently listening to the Word of God (Lectio Divina). According to the constant tradition of Carmel, they will especially cultivate prayer in all its forms. The members of the Third Order take their inspiration from the figures of Our Lady and the Prophet Elijah.

How Is the Third Order of Carmelite Meaningful In The Church Today?

Third Order Carmelite is called to the family of Carmel to be deeply involved in the mission of the Church, making his or her life a prayer listening to the Word, and finding in Mary and the prophet Elijah the models for a Christian witness in the world.

The Statutes of Carmel state "The call to Carmel, a call to seek God's will in the ordinary circumstances of everyday life, roots Lay Carmelites in a love of those with whom they live and work, in the search for God's face, and in solidarity with God's people everywhere."

What Are Some of The Advantages?

The Lay Carmelite becomes a member of the Carmelite family and shares in the work, prayer and benefits of the Order of Carmel. This life offers one a great opportunity to grow in the contemplative spirit, the imitation of Christ and the emptying of self so that God can be our all. The joint effort to form a community with others of like values is a blessing.

Is God calling you to be a Carmelite?

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