Let us walk together, Lord: Document of the 92nd OCD General Chapter - {Responding to a Call (1-3) Charism and Formation (4-10)} - (Part 2)

Responding to a Call (1-3)

Charism and Formation (4-10) 

I. Responding to a Call

Responding to the call in the Carmelite Order involves a deep and personal discernment process that encompasses prayer, reflection, and seeking guidance from spiritual advisors.

Here's a breakdown of the key steps involved:

a)    Cultivate a Relationship with God: The first step is to nurture a strong connection with God through prayer, meditation, and regular participation in the sacraments. This deepening relationship will help you discern whether the Carmelite life is truly God's calling for you.

b)    Probe into Carmelite Spirituality: Immerse yourself in the teachings and traditions of the Carmelite Order. Read about the lives of Carmelite saints, study their spiritual writings, and attend Carmelite retreats or conferences. This will give you a better understanding of their charism and way of life.

c)    Engage in Discernment with Spiritual Advisors: Seek guidance from experienced spiritual advisors, such as priests, Carmelite friars or nuns, or trusted mentors. Discuss your desire to explore the Carmelite vocation with them and seek their insights and advice.

d)    Consider a Visit to a Carmelite Monastery or Convent: If possible, arrange a visit to a Carmelite monastery or convent. Spend time with the friars or nuns, observe their daily lives, and ask questions about their vocation. This will provide you with firsthand experience of the Carmelite lifestyle.

e)    Pray for Discernment: Continuously pray for God's guidance throughout your discernment journey. Ask for clarity, peace, and the ability to recognize God's will for your life. Trust that God will lead you if you are truly called to the Carmelite Order.

Remember, discernment is a process, not a one-time decision. It takes time, reflection, and openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Be patient with yourself and trust that God will lead you if you are called to the Carmelite life. 

1.      The experience of Vocation

The experience of vocation in Carmel is a deep and personal journey of spiritual growth, transformation, and union with God. It is a call to a life of prayer, contemplation, and service to the Church and the world.

·         A Life of Prayer and Contemplation

Carmelites dedicate their lives to prayer and contemplation. They spend hours each day in the presence of God, praying for the needs of the world, the Church, and their loved ones. They also engage in spiritual reading, meditation, and Lectio Divina, which is a way of prayerful reading of the Bible.

Through prayer and contemplation, Carmelites seek to deepen their relationship with God and to grow in holiness. They strive to always live in the presence of God, even in the midst of their daily tasks.

·         A Life of Simplicity and Community

Carmelites live a simple and austere life, free from the distractions of the world. They wear simple habits, eat simple food, and live in humble accommodations. They also embrace a life of silence, speaking only when necessary.

Carmelites living in a simple monastery

Despite their simple lifestyle, Carmelites find great joy and fulfilment in their community life. They support and encourage one another, and they share in the joys and sorrows of life together.

·         A Life of Service to the Church and the World

Carmelites may not leave their monasteries, but they are not cut off from the world. They pray for the needs of the world, the Church, and their loved ones. They also offer their prayers and sacrifices for the salvation of souls.

In addition to their prayers, Carmelites may also engage in a variety of ministries, such as making rosaries, writing letters, or offering spiritual counsel. They also support the work of the Church through their prayers and financial contributions.

·         The Call to Carmel

The call to Carmel is a special gift from God. It is a call to a life of prayer, contemplation, and service to the Church and the world. 

·         Discerning Your Vocation

Discerning your vocation is a process that takes time, prayer, and reflection. There is no rush to make a decision, and it is important to take the time to explore your options and seek guidance from others.

Here are some questions to consider as you discern your vocation:

• What are my deepest desires and longings?
• What are my gifts and talents?
• What kind of life do I want to live?
• What is God calling me to do?

As you pray and reflect on these questions, you may find that you are drawn to the Carmelite way of life. 

    2. The Path towards Identity

The path towards identity in the Carmelite Order is a journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and transformation. It is a call to live a life of prayer, contemplation, and service in accordance with the Carmelite Rule and traditions.

Carmelites undergo a process of transformation and come to find their true identity in Christ. They learn to let go of their self-will and to conform themselves to the will of God. They also learn to live in the present moment and to be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

The fruits of Carmelite identity include:

·         Peace: Carmelites find peace in their hearts and minds as they come to know and love God more deeply.

·         Joy: Carmelites experience joy in their spiritual life and in their service to others.

·         Love: Carmelites are filled with love for God, for others, and for all of creation.

The path towards identity in the Carmelite Order is a call to holiness. Carmelites strive to live a life that is free from sin and to be perfect in love. They are called to be a light to the world and to reflect the love of Christ in all that they do.

The path towards identity in the Carmelite Order is a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and transformation. It is a call to holiness and to a life of prayer, contemplation, and service.

3. The ever-present Call

The call to Carmel is an ever-present one, echoing through the ages and inviting souls to a life of prayer, contemplation, and service. It is a call to step away from the distractions of the world and to enter a deeper relationship with God.

There are many reasons why someone might be called to Carmel. Some people are drawn to the Carmelite way of life because of its simplicity and peacefulness. Others are attracted to the Carmelite emphasis on prayer and contemplation. The call to Carmel is a special gift from God. It is a call to a life of love, joy, and peace.

II.  Charism and Formation

4. An Identity in Formation

The path to identity in Carmelite formation begins with discernment, a process of prayerful reflection in which a person seeks to understand God's will for their life.

Formation in Carmelite spirituality is a lifelong process that encompasses various aspects of spiritual growth:

1. Prayer: Carmelites and friars dedicate their lives to prayer, including vocal prayer, mental prayer, and contemplative prayer. They seek to deepen their relationship with God through prayerful dialogue and meditation.
2. Lectio Divina: A way of prayerful reading of the Bible that involves reading, meditation, and prayer. This practice helps them to understand and apply Scripture to their daily lives.
3. Study: Carmelites study the Bible, the writings of the Church Fathers, and the works of Carmelite saints and spiritual writers. This study enriches their understanding of faith and spirituality.
4. Spiritual Direction: Carmelites meet with a spiritual director regularly to discuss their spiritual journey and receive guidance. This relationship helps them to identify areas of growth and to navigate spiritual challenges.
5. Community Life: Carmelites live in a community with others who share their faith and commitment. They support and encourage one another in their spiritual growth and strive to live in harmony and mutual respect.

Shaping a Carmelite Identity

Through formation in Carmelite spirituality, individuals gradually develop a Carmelite identity. This identity is characterized by:

1. Humility: Recognizing their own limitations and relying on God's grace for strength and guidance.
2. Obedience: Willingness to submit their will to God's will, expressed through obedience to the Carmelite Rule and the guidance of spiritual authorities.
3. Simplicity: Embracing a simple lifestyle, free from unnecessary possessions and distractions.
4. Contemplation: Seeking to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, meditation, and silence.
5. Service: Committing themselves to serving others, especially those in need, reflecting Christ's compassion and love.

5. The Teresian Reform as a Path of Formation

The Teresian Reform, initiated by Saint Teresa of Ávila and St. John of the Cross was a profound movement of spiritual renewal within the Carmelite Order. It emphasized a return to the original Rule of Saint Albert of Jerusalem, which called for a life of solitude, prayer, and contemplation.

Key Principles of the Teresian Reform

The Teresian Reform emphasized several key principles that continue to guide Carmelite formation today:

1.    Devotion to Prayer and Contemplation: A deep commitment to prayer and contemplation as the foundation of the spiritual life.

2.    Simplicity and Austerity: Embracing a simple lifestyle, free from unnecessary possessions and distractions, to focus on the essential things of life.

3.    Community Life: Living in a supportive community of fellow Carmelites, fostering mutual love, encouragement, and spiritual growth.

4.    Obedience and Humility: Willing submission to one's superior and a deep sense of humility, recognizing one's own limitations and relying on God's grace.

5.    Spiritual Direction: Regular guidance from a spiritual director to navigate spiritual challenges and discern God's will. 

Impact of the Teresian Reform on Formation

The Teresian Reform had a significant impact on the approach to Carmelite formation, shaping it into a transformative journey of spiritual growth and transformation.

1.    Emphasis on Interiority: The reform shifted the focus from external observances to interior transformation, encouraging a deeper relationship with God through prayer and contemplation.

2.    Individualized Formation: Each individual's spiritual journey was recognized as unique, requiring personalized guidance and support from spiritual directors.

3.    Emphasis on Spiritual Reading: The importance of spiritual reading and reflection was emphasized to enrich the understanding of faith and spirituality.

4.    Integration of Active and Contemplative Life: The reform balanced the active life of service with the contemplative life of prayer, recognizing their interdependence. 

The Teresian Reform as a Model of Spiritual Growth

The principles of the Teresian Reform extend beyond the Carmelite Order and offer valuable insights for anyone seeking spiritual growth and transformation.

1.    Prioritizing Prayer and Contemplation: Dedicating time to prayer and reflection allows for a deeper connection with God and a clearer understanding of one's purpose.

2.    Embracing Simplicity: Reducing distractions and living with moderation can create space for spiritual growth and focus on what truly matters.

3.    Nurturing Community: Building strong relationships with others provides support, encouragement, and opportunities for shared spiritual growth.

4.    Seeking Guidance: Seeking guidance from experienced mentors or spiritual directors can help navigate spiritual challenges and make informed decisions.

5.    Commitment to Spiritual Growth: Embracing a lifelong journey of spiritual growth requires dedication, perseverance, and openness to God's grace.

6. Integral Formation

Integral formation in the Carmelite Order is a comprehensive approach to spiritual development that encompasses the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. It aims to foster a harmonious integration of human, Christian, and Carmelite dimensions, leading to a life of holiness and service.

Human Formation

The foundation of integral formation lies in human formation, which cultivates self-awareness, maturity, and emotional balance. This aspect focuses on:

1.    Psychological Development: Understanding one's personality, motivations, and emotional patterns, fostering self-acceptance and healthy relationships.

2.    Intellectual Development: Expanding knowledge and critical thinking skills, enabling informed decision-making and a deeper understanding of faith.

3.    Physical Well-being: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, exercise, and rest, ensuring physical fitness for the demands of Carmelite life.

Christian Formation

Integral formation nurtures a deep and authentic Christian faith, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. This dimension emphasizes:

1.    Biblical and Theological Study: Engaging in the study of Scripture, Church history, and theological principles, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the Christian faith.

2.    Sacramental Participation: Actively participating in the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Reconciliation, fostering a deeper relationship with God and receiving spiritual nourishment.

3.    Spiritual Practices: Cultivating spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, and spiritual reading, deepening personal communion with God. 

Carmelite Formation

Integral formation immerses individuals in the Carmelite spirituality and traditions, preparing them to live a life according to the Carmelite Rule. This aspect focuses on:

1.    Carmelite History and Spirituality: Studying the history of the Carmelite Order, its saints, and its spiritual traditions, gaining a deeper understanding of the Carmelite charism.

2.    Carmelite Rule and Constitutions: Understanding the Carmelite Rule and Constitutions, which serve as guidelines for Carmelite life and practices.

3.    Carmelite Community Life: Integrating into the Carmelite community, embracing its values, traditions, and practices, and fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. 

Integration and Transformation

Integral formation strives to integrate these three dimensions – human, Christian, and Carmelite – into a harmonious whole. This integration leads to a transformation of the individual, fostering:

1.    Authenticity: Living a life true to oneself, aligned with one's values and beliefs, and free from pretence or self-deception.

2.    Holiness: Striving for a life of holiness, characterized by virtue, love, and a deep relationship with God.

3.    Vocational Fulfillment: Fully embracing the Carmelite vocation, living a life of prayer, contemplation, and service in accordance with the Carmelite Rule and traditions.

Integral formation in the Carmelite Order is a lifelong journey, a continuous process of growth and transformation. It empowers individuals to live a life of authenticity, holiness, and vocational fulfilment, contributing to the mission of the Carmelite Order and the Church. 

7. The community as the space for Formation

The community plays a pivotal role in integral formation within the Carmelite Order. The environment of a Carmelite monastery fosters a unique space for spiritual growth, mutual support, and the embodiment of Carmelite ideals.

Nurturing Spiritual Growth

The Carmelite community provides a supportive and conducive environment for individual spiritual growth. Within this context, individuals:

1.      Engage in Shared Prayer and Liturgy: Participating in communal prayer, liturgical celebrations, and Lectio Divina fosters a sense of unity and deepens their relationship with God.

2.      Receive Spiritual Guidance: Spiritual directors within the community provide guidance and support, helping individuals navigate spiritual challenges and discern God's will.

3.      Engage in Spiritual Reading and Discussion: Sharing insights from spiritual readings and engaging in discussions with fellow Carmelites enriches their understanding of faith and spirituality.

Fostering Mutual Support and Encouragement

The Carmelite community serves as a source of mutual support and encouragement, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. This environment:

1.      Promotes Mutual Respect and Compassion: Living in close proximity to others requires mutual respect, understanding, and compassion, fostering a harmonious community life.

2.      Provides Opportunities for Shared Service: Engaging in shared service within the community and beyond nurtures a spirit of humility, selflessness, and care for others.

3.      Offers Support During Challenges: Community members offer support and encouragement during times of personal or spiritual challenges, fostering resilience and perseverance.

Embodying Carmelite Ideals

The Carmelite community provides a context for embodying the core ideals of the Carmelite Order, creating a living expression of the Carmelite Rule and traditions. Within this context, individuals:

1.      Practice Simplicity and Austerity: Embracing a simple lifestyle together, free from unnecessary possessions and distractions, reinforces the value of detachment and focus on the essentials.

2.      Live in Obedience and Humility: Submitting to the authority of the superior and embracing a deep sense of humility fosters unity and a spirit of service.

3.      Cultivate Contemplative Silence: Observing periods of silence within the community nurtures a deeper interiority and attentiveness to God's presence.

The Carmelite community, as a space for formation, plays a crucial role in shaping spiritually mature individuals, rooted in their faith, and dedicated to living a life of prayer, contemplation, and service in accordance with the Carmelite Rule and traditions.

8. Every Community is Formative

In the Carmelite Order, every community is considered a formative space, fostering spiritual growth, mutual support, and the embodiment of Carmelite ideals. The cloistered environment of a Carmelite monastery or convent provides a unique opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in a life of prayer, contemplation, and service, guided by the Carmelite Rule and traditions.

The Role of Community in Formation

The Carmelite community plays a pivotal role in the integral formation of its members. The close-knit nature of the community provides a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals can grow in their faith, develop their spiritual gifts, and deepen their commitment to the Carmelite way of life.

Formative Elements of Community Life

Several key elements of community life contribute to the formative process within the Carmelite Order:

1.      Shared Prayer and Liturgy: Participating in communal prayer, liturgical celebrations, and Lectio Divina fosters a sense of unity and deepens individuals' relationship with God.

2.      Mutual Support and Encouragement: The Carmelite community serves as a source of mutual support and encouragement, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

3.      Embodiment of Carmelite Ideals: The Carmelite community provides a context for embodying the core ideals of the Carmelite Order, creating a living expression of the Carmelite Rule and traditions.

Benefits of Community-Based Formation

The community-based approach to formation in the Carmelite Order offers several benefits:

1.      Holistic Development: Community life promotes holistic development, addressing not only spiritual growth but also emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

2.      Peer Support and Learning: Living and interacting with fellow Carmelites provides opportunities for peer support, learning, and sharing of experiences.

3.      Practical Application of Carmelite Ideals: Community life allows for the practical application of Carmelite ideals, such as obedience, humility, and service, in a real-world context.

4.      Sense of Belonging and Shared Mission: The Carmelite community fosters a sense of belonging and shared mission, providing a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

The Carmelite community is not merely a collection of individuals living together; it is a formative force that shapes and nurtures the spiritual journey of each member. Through shared prayer, mutual support, and the embodiment of Carmelite ideals, the community plays a crucial role in the integral formation of Carmelites, preparing them to live a life of holiness and service in accordance with the Carmelite Rule and traditions.

9. Always in Formation

The concept of "always in formation" is central to the Teresian Carmelite way of life. It signifies a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and transformation, guided by the teachings of Saint Teresa of Avila and the Carmelite Rule.

 

A Continuous Process of Growth

Unlike some approaches to spiritual formation that emphasize initial formation and then transition to a state of "arrival," Teresian Carmel emphasizes a continuous process of growth. This ongoing formation is rooted in the belief that spiritual maturity is not a destination but a journey and that we are always open to new insights, deeper conversions, and a closer relationship with God.

 

The Dynamic Nature of Spiritual Life

The Teresian concept of "always in formation" acknowledges the dynamic nature of spiritual life. Our experiences, interactions, and challenges can continually shape our understanding of faith, our relationship with God, and our commitment to the Carmelite way of life.

 

Embrace of Ongoing Learning

This emphasis on ongoing formation encourages Carmelites to embrace lifelong learning and self-reflection. They actively seek opportunities for spiritual growth through prayer, study, spiritual reading, and guidance from spiritual directors.

 

Importance of Humility and Openness

Humility and openness are essential qualities for ongoing formation. Carmelites recognize their limitations and their need for God's grace and guidance. They are open to feedback, correction, and opportunities for growth.

 

A Journey of Transformation

The process of "always in formation" is not merely about acquiring knowledge or refining skills; it is a transformative journey that shapes one's entire being. Carmelites strive to grow in holiness, love, and service, becoming more fully conformed to the image of Christ.

 

Implications for Carmelite Life

The concept of "always in formation" has several implications for Carmelite life:

1.      Continuous Renewal: Carmelite communities strive for continuous renewal, incorporating new insights and practices while remaining faithful to the core values of the Carmelite tradition.

2.      Emphasis on Spiritual Direction: Regular spiritual direction is considered essential for ongoing formation, providing guidance and support as Carmelites navigate their spiritual journeys.

3.      Openness to Change: Carmelites embrace change and adaptation, recognizing that the Holy Spirit may lead them in new directions.

4.      Commitment to Growth: A commitment to ongoing formation is a hallmark of Teresian Carmel, distinguishing it from approaches that emphasize a single, definitive stage of formation.

The concept of "always in formation" is a powerful reminder that spiritual growth is a lifelong journey, open to continuous renewal and transformation. It is a call to humility, openness, and a willingness to embrace the ongoing guidance of the Holy Spirit. For Carmelites, this concept is not merely an ideal but a way of life, shaping their spiritual journey and their commitment to the Carmelite vocation.

10.  Intellectual preparation

Intellectual preparation is an ongoing process for Discalced Carmelites throughout their life in Carmel. It is essential for understanding and living out the Carmelite way of life, and for engaging effectively in the mission of the Church.

Purpose of Intellectual Preparation

Intellectual preparation in Discalced Carmelites serves several important purposes:

1. Deepening Understanding of Faith: Through study and reflection, Carmelites gain a deeper understanding of the Bible, Church teachings, and Carmelite spirituality.
2. Enriching Prayer and Contemplation: A strong intellectual foundation enhances prayer and contemplation by providing a richer context for understanding Scripture, theological concepts, and spiritual experiences.
3. Effective Communication and Dialogue: Intellectual preparation enables Carmelites to engage in effective communication and dialogue with others, sharing their faith and insights with those they encounter.
4. Contributing to Scholarship and Spiritual Writing: Intellectually prepared Carmelites can contribute to scholarship and spiritual writing, enriching the understanding of Carmelite spirituality and its relevance to contemporary life.

Forms of Intellectual Preparation

Intellectual preparation for Discalced Carmelites takes various forms throughout their life in Carmel:

1. Initial Formation: During initial formation, Carmelites receive a solid foundation in biblical studies, Church history, Carmelite spirituality, and other relevant disciplines.
2. Ongoing Study and Reading: Throughout their life, Carmelites engage in ongoing study and reading, deepening their knowledge and understanding of faith, spirituality, and relevant cultural and academic fields.
3. Spiritual Direction and Mentorship: Carmelites seek guidance and mentorship from experienced spiritual directors and mentors, who can help them integrate intellectual pursuits with their spiritual growth.
4. Participation in Courses and Conferences: Carmelites may participate in courses, conferences, and retreats offered by Carmelite institutions or other organizations, enriching their intellectual and spiritual formation.
5. Engagement with Diverse Perspectives: Carmelites seek to engage with diverse perspectives, including those from other cultures, traditions, and disciplines, broadening their understanding of faith and its expression in the world.

Integration of Intellectual and Spiritual Growth

Intellectual preparation for Discalced Carmelites is not an end in itself; it is integrated with their spiritual growth and commitment to the Carmelite way of life. Carmelites strive to balance intellectual pursuits with prayer, contemplation, and service, ensuring that their intellectual growth contributes to their overall spiritual formation and mission.

Intellectual preparation is an essential and ongoing aspect of the life of Discalced Carmelites. It enables them to deepen their understanding of faith, enrich their prayer and contemplation, engage effectively in communication and dialogue, and contribute to scholarship and spiritual writing. Through intellectual preparation, Carmelites strive to become more knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective servants of the Church, Order and the world.  (To be Continued)

                                                                                                         Prepared by 
                                                                                                       Fr. Nicholas Macedon OCD