Let us walk together, Lord Document of the 92nd OCD General Chapter (Part 4 C/D)

Let us walk together, Lord!
Document of the 92^nd OCD General Chapter (Part 4 C/D)
Essential Elements of the Charism
IV. C/D. Mission (45-57) /
Unity of Prayer – Fraternity - Mission (58-60)

The Declaration concludes by calling on all Discalced Carmelites to embrace their missionary calling with renewed zeal. The Declaration states that "mission is not an option for us; it is a constitutive element of our charism."

The Declaration on the Carmelite-Teresian Charism for Mission is an important document that will help to guide the Discalced Carmelite Order in its missionary endeavours in the years to come.

        45. A call to mission 

         A call to mission is a summons to engage in work that is intended to help others. This work can take many forms, such as providing humanitarian aid, promoting peace and justice, or sharing the Gospel message.

Those who feel called to a mission are often motivated by a desire to make a difference in the world and to live out their faith in a practical way. They may be drawn to mission work because they have a passion for a particular cause or because they feel a personal connection to the people they are serving.

Regardless of the specific motivation, those who answer the call to mission are often deeply committed to their work. They are willing to sacrifice their time, energy, and resources to help others in need.

If you are considering a call to mission, there are many things you can do to prepare. First, pray about your calling and seek guidance from God and from others who have experience in mission work. Second, educate yourself about the cause you are passionate about and the people you hope to serve. Third, develop the skills you need to be effective in your mission work. Finally, connect with organizations that can provide support and resources.

Mission work can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. It is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others and to grow in your own faith. If you are feeling called to a mission, I encourage you to explore this possibility further. You may find that it is the most fulfilling thing you ever do.

Here are some additional thoughts on the call to mission:

·         The call to mission is not always easy to hear. It may require you to step outside of your comfort zone and to face difficult challenges. But if you are truly called, you will find that the rewards far outweigh the risks.

·         The call to mission is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. There are many different ways to serve others in need. Find a mission that is aligned with your gifts and talents, and that you are passionate about.

·         The call to mission is not a solo endeavour. Many others are also called to mission work. Find a community of support to help you along the way.

If you are feeling called to a mission, I encourage you to answer that call. You may find that it is the most fulfilling thing you ever do.- A call to mission is a summons to engage in work that is intended to help others. This work can take many forms, such as providing humanitarian aid, promoting peace and justice, or sharing the Gospel message.

46. The mission of the Teresian Carmel 

The mission of the Teresian Carmel Order is to live a life of prayer, contemplation, and service in imitation of Jesus Christ. The Order is dedicated to the pursuit of holiness and to the sharing of God's love with the world.

In the 16th century, St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross reformed the Carmelite Order, returning it to its original ideals of prayer, contemplation, and simplicity. The Teresian Carmel Order, as it is now known, is based on the teachings of these two saints.

The mission of the Teresian Carmel Order is reflected in its Rule of Life, which states that the Order's purpose is to "live in the presence of God, in solitude and silence, in prayer and penance, in the service of God and neighbour."

The Order's members, known as Carmelites, strive to live a life of contemplation, which is a deep and personal relationship with God. They believe that contemplation is the source of true spiritual growth and that it is essential for living a truly Christian life.

Carmelites also believe in the importance of service to others. They believe that their love for God should be expressed in concrete ways, such as working to help the poor and marginalized.

The Teresian Carmel Order is a small order, with about 10,000 members worldwide. However, the Order has had a profound impact on the Catholic Church. The Order's teachings on prayer and contemplation have inspired many people, and its members have been known for their holiness and their commitment to social justice.

The mission of the Teresian Carmel Order is a challenging one, but it is also a rewarding one. Carmelites believe that their life is a gift from God, and they are committed to living it in a way that honours God and serves others.

Here are some of the key elements of the Teresian Carmel Order's mission:

ü  Contemplation: Carmelites believe that contemplation is the source of true spiritual growth. They strive to live a life of prayer and silence, to cultivate a deep and personal relationship with God.

ü  Simplicity: Carmelites live a simple life, free from unnecessary possessions and distractions. They believe that simplicity is essential for living a life of focus and purpose.

ü  Service: Carmelites believe that their love for God should be expressed in concrete ways, such as working to help the poor and marginalized. They are committed to social justice and to working to make the world a better place.

47. The apostolic dimension in the Teresian experience 

The apostolic dimension in the Teresian experience refers to how St. Teresa of Ávila understood and lived out her call to share God's love with others. For Teresa, the apostolic life was not a separate activity from her contemplative life, but rather an integral part of it. She believed that her deep relationship with God through prayer and contemplation was the source of her strength and inspiration for her apostolic work.

Teresa's apostolic activity took many forms, including:

ü  Prayer for others: Teresa was a tireless intercessor, praying for the salvation of souls, the needs of the Church, and the welfare of the world.

ü  Spiritual counselling: Teresa was a gifted spiritual advisor, offering guidance and support to those who sought her counsel.

ü  Founding of monasteries: Teresa founded several Carmelite monasteries, which became centres of prayer and renewal for the Church.

ü  Writing: Teresa's writings, including her autobiography, "The Life of Teresa of Jesus," and her spiritual treatise, "The Interior Castle," have had a profound impact on the Church and on countless individual Christians.

Teresa's understanding of the apostolic life was not based on external achievements or recognition, but rather on a deep love for God and a desire to share that love with others. She believed that true apostolic fruitfulness comes from a life of prayer and contemplation and that the most important thing we can do for others is to introduce them to God.

Teresa's example of apostolic life continues to inspire Christians today. She shows us that the most effective way to share God's love with others is to first cultivate a deep relationship with God ourselves. When we are rooted in God's love, we will be naturally drawn to share that love with others in whatever way God calls us to do so.

48. Pleasing the Lord 

Pleasing the Lord in Carmel refers to how the Carmelite Order strives to live a life that is under God's will. Carmelites believe that the best way to please God is to live a life of prayer, contemplation, and service.

Prayer is central to the Carmelite life. Carmelites believe that prayer is a way to communicate with God, to listen to God's voice, and to receive God's grace. They pray for themselves, for others, and for the world.

Contemplation is another important aspect of the Carmelite life. Contemplation is a deep and personal relationship with God. It is a state of being in which one is aware of God's presence and love in a profound way.

Service is also important to Carmelites. They believe that their love for God should be expressed in concrete ways, such as working to help the poor and marginalized. They are committed to social justice and to working to make the world a better place.

Here are some specific things that Carmelites do to please the Lord:

ü  They pray regularly and sincerely.

ü  They strive to live a life of simplicity and detachment from material possessions.

ü  They practice humility and obedience.

ü  They are committed to chastity, poverty, and obedience.

ü  They are dedicated to the study of Scripture and the teaching of the Church.

ü  They are devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph.

ü  They seek to live a life of charity and compassion.

ü  They are committed to the work of evangelization.

Carmelites believe that by living a life that is by God's will, they are pleasing God and bringing glory to God's name. They believe that their life is a gift from God, and they are committed to living it in a way that honours God and serves others.

Here are some additional thoughts on pleasing the Lord in Carmel:

ü  Pleasing the Lord is not about earning God's favour or trying to impress God. It is about loving God and wanting to do what is right.

ü  Pleasing the Lord is not about following a set of rules or regulations. It is about living a life that is guided by love and compassion.

ü  Pleasing the Lord is not about being perfect. It is about striving to be better and growing in holiness.

49. A life commitment 

A life commitment in Carmel is a serious and lifelong undertaking. It is a call to live a life of prayer, contemplation, and service in imitation of Jesus Christ. It is a commitment to live a simple life, free from unnecessary possessions and distractions. And it is a commitment to work for the good of others, especially the poor and marginalized.

Those who make a life commitment in Carmel are called to live a life of celibacy, poverty, and obedience. They are also called to live a life of community, sharing their lives with other Carmelites in a monastery or convent.

Life in Carmel is not easy. It requires a great deal of sacrifice and self-discipline. But it is also a life of great joy and peace. Carmelites believe that their life is a gift from God, and they are committed to living it in a way that honours God and serves others.

Some of the benefits of making a life commitment in Carmel:

·         A deeper relationship with God: Carmelites believe that their life in Carmel is a way to deepen their relationship with God. They believe that prayer, contemplation, and service are all ways of connecting with God and experiencing God's love.

·         A life of purpose and meaning: Carmelites believe that their life in Carmel is a life of purpose and meaning. They believe that their work to help others and to make the world a better place is a way of living out their faith and making a difference in the world.

·         A life of the community: Carmelites believe that their life in Carmel is a life of community. They believe that living with other Carmelites in a monastery or convent is a way to support each other and to grow together in holiness.

·         A life of peace and joy: Carmelites believe that their life in Carmel is a life of peace and joy. They believe that living a simple life, free from unnecessary possessions and distractions, is a way to find inner peace. And they believe that living a life of service to others is a way to experience true joy.

50. The apostolic value of prayer 

The apostolic value of prayer in Carmel refers to the belief that prayer is a powerful tool for carrying out the Carmelite Order's mission of sharing God's love with the world. Carmelites believe that their prayers can have a real impact on the lives of others and that they are called to pray for the needs of the Church, the world, and individuals in need.

There are many ways in which prayer can be apostolic in Carmel. Here are a few examples:

ü  Intercessory prayer: Carmelites are known for their intercessory prayer, which is praying for the needs of others. They may pray for the salvation of souls, the healing of the sick, or the peace of the world.

ü  Spiritual guidance: Carmelites often provide spiritual guidance to others, offering advice and encouragement based on their own experience of prayer. They may also pray for those who are seeking spiritual guidance.

ü  Writing and speaking about prayer: Carmelites have written many books and articles about prayer, and they often give talks and workshops on the subject. They share their insights into prayer with others in order to help them grow in their own prayer lives and to use prayer to serve others.

Carmelites believe that prayer is not just a personal activity, but also a way to participate in God's work in the world. Through prayer, they seek to connect with God's love and to share that love with others. They believe that their prayers can make a real difference in the world, and they are committed to using prayer to serve God and others.

Some of the reasons why prayer is considered to have apostolic value in Carmel:

ü  Prayer can bring about change: Carmelites believe that prayer can bring about real change in the world. They believe that God is active in the world, and that prayer can be a way to partner with God in that work.

ü  Prayer can bring comfort and healing: Carmelites believe that prayer can bring comfort and healing to those who are suffering. They believe that God is a source of strength and hope, and that prayer can be a way to connect with that strength and hope.

ü  Prayer can bring people closer to God: Carmelites believe that prayer can bring people closer to God. They believe that prayer is a way to communicate with God, to listen to God's voice, and to receive God's grace.

51. The multifaceted ecclesial work 

The multifaceted ecclesial work in Carmel is a reference to the many ways in which the Carmelite Order serves the Church. Carmelites are involved in a wide variety of ministries, including

ü Prayer and contemplation: Carmelites are known for their commitment to prayer and contemplation. They believe that prayer is a way to connect with God and to experience God's love. They also believe that contemplation is a way to deepen their relationship with God and to grow in holiness.

ü Education: Carmelites are involved in education at all levels, from elementary school to seminary. They believe that education is a way to share their faith with others and to help others grow in knowledge and understanding.

ü Healthcare: Carmelites are involved in healthcare in a variety of ways, including providing care to the elderly, the sick, and the poor. They believe that healthcare is a way to express their love for God and to serve others in need.

ü Social justice: Carmelites are involved in social justice ministries, such as working to help the poor, the homeless, and the marginalized. They believe that social justice is a way to express their faith in action and to work to make the world a better place.

ü Evangelism: Carmelites are involved in evangelism, which is sharing the Christian faith with others. They believe that evangelism is a way to fulfil the Great Commission of Jesus Christ to make disciples of all nations.

Carmelites believe that their ecclesial work is a way to share God's love with the world. They believe that they are called to serve the Church in whatever way God calls them, and they are committed to using their gifts and talents to make a difference in the world.

How Carmelites are making a difference in the Church today?

ü  They are praying for the Church. Carmelites are praying for the Church's unity, strength, and renewal. They are praying for the Pope, the bishops, and all the clergy. They are praying for the laity, for those who are seeking the truth, and for the world.

ü  They are teaching and catechizing. Carmelites are teaching the faith to children, young people, and adults. They are catechizing converts and helping them to grow in their faith. They are also teaching about the Bible, about prayer, and about the saints.

ü  They are caring for the sick and the poor. Carmelites are working in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. They are providing food, clothing, and shelter to the homeless. They are visiting the elderly and the imprisoned.

ü  They are working for justice and peace. Carmelites are working to protect the environment, to promote human rights, and to end poverty and hunger. They are working to resolve conflict and to build peace.

ü  They are sharing the Gospel. Carmelites are sharing the Gospel with others through their words, their actions, and their witness. They are inviting others to come to know Jesus Christ and to experience the joy of the Christian life.

52. The Ministry of Spirituality 

The Ministry of Spirituality in Carmel is a vital aspect of the Carmelite Order's mission to share God's love with the world. Through this ministry, Carmelites offer spiritual guidance, support, and resources to individuals seeking to deepen their faith and grow in holiness.

Carmelites believe that spirituality is not just about intellectual knowledge or religious practices; it is about a personal relationship with God. They believe that spirituality is a gift from God and that it is meant to be shared with others.

The Ministry of Spirituality in Carmel is based on the Carmelite tradition of prayer, contemplation, and service. Carmelites believe that prayer is a way to connect with God, contemplation is a way to deepen that connection, and service is a way to express that connection in action.

Through the Ministry of Spirituality in Carmel, individuals can:

ü  Receive spiritual guidance and support from Carmelite priests and sisters.

ü  Participate in spiritual retreats, workshops, and conferences.

ü  Learn about the Carmelite tradition of prayer, contemplation, and service.

ü  Join a Carmelite prayer group or community.

ü  Find resources to help them grow in their faith.

The Ministry of Spirituality in Carmel is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Carmelites believe that everyone is called to a relationship with God and that spirituality is a way to nurture that relationship.

There are some of the specific ways in which the Ministry of Spirituality in Carmel serves individuals seeking to deepen their faith and grow in holiness:

ü  Spiritual direction: Carmelites offer spiritual direction to individuals seeking guidance on their spiritual journey. Spiritual directors help individuals discern God's will in their lives, grow in prayer and contemplation, and live out their faith in their daily lives.

ü  Retreats and workshops: Carmelites offer retreats and workshops on a variety of topics related to spirituality, such as prayer, contemplation, scripture study, and discernment. These retreats and workshops provide individuals with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of spirituality and to experience the Carmelite tradition firsthand.

ü  Resources: Carmelites provide a variety of resources to help individuals grow in their faith, including books, articles, and websites. These resources offer guidance on prayer, contemplation, and service, as well as insights into the Carmelite tradition.

ü  Prayer groups and communities: Carmelites offer prayer groups and communities that provide individuals with an opportunity to pray together, share their experiences of faith, and support each other on their spiritual journey.

The Ministry of Spirituality in Carmel is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and grow in holiness. Through this ministry, individuals can connect with God, discover their own spiritual gifts, and live a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.

53. The mission and gentes 

 The mission and gentes in Carmel are two important aspects of the Carmelite Order's identity and purpose.

Mission

The mission of the Carmelite Order is to share God's love with the world through prayer, contemplation, and service. Carmelites believe that they are called to live a life of prayer and contemplation and that this life of prayer and contemplation is the source of their strength to serve others.

Carmelites serve others in a variety of ways, including:

ü  Praying for the Church and the world

ü  Teaching and catechizing

ü  Caring for the sick and the poor

ü  Working for justice and peace

ü  Sharing the Gospel

Carmelites believe that their mission is a call from God and that they are committed to fulfilling that call in whatever way God calls them to serve.

Gentes

The gentes in Carmel are the people who are served by the Carmelite Order. The gentes include all people, regardless of their race, religion, or social status. Carmelites believe that they are called to serve all people with love and compassion.

Carmelites serve the gentes in a variety of ways, including:

ü  Providing spiritual guidance and support

ü  Offering education and formation

ü  Providing healthcare and social services

ü  Advocating for the rights of the poor and marginalized

ü  Promoting peace and reconciliation

Carmelites believe that their service to the gentes is a way of sharing God's love with the world. They believe that their work with the gentes is a way of making a real difference in the lives of others.

The mission and gentes in Carmel are two important aspects of the Carmelite Order's identity and purpose. Carmelites are called to live a life of prayer, contemplation, and service, and to share God's love with the world through their work with the gentes.

54. Attentive to today's world in Carmel

The Carmelite Order is a contemplative religious order that was founded in the 12th century. Carmelites are known for their commitment to prayer, contemplation, and simplicity. They live a life of solitude and silence, and they dedicate themselves to the pursuit of holiness.

While Carmelites are committed to their contemplative life, they are also aware of the needs of the world around them. They are attentive to the challenges and injustices that people face, and they are committed to working for peace, justice, and the common good.

Carmelites believe that their contemplative life is not a retreat from the world, but rather a way of preparing them to serve the world more effectively. They believe that their prayer and contemplation give them the strength and compassion they need to work for justice, peace, and the common good.

55. Community discernment on mission 

Community discernment on mission in Carmel is a process by which the Carmelite Order discerns God's will for its mission in the world. This process is based on prayer, contemplation, and dialogue.

The process of community discernment on mission in Carmel begins with prayer. The Carmelites pray for God's guidance and wisdom. They also pray for the courage to discern God's will and the strength to follow through on it.

After prayer, the Carmelites enter a period of contemplation. They reflect on their own experiences, the needs of the world, and the teachings of the Church. They also listen to the Holy Spirit, who speaks to them through their hearts.

Finally, the Carmelites enter into dialogue with each other. They share their thoughts, feelings, and insights. They listen to each other with respect and openness. Through dialogue, they come to a shared understanding of God's will for their mission.

The process of community discernment on mission in Carmel is ongoing. The Carmelites are constantly discerning God's will for their mission. They are always open to new insights and new ways of living out their mission.

Community discernment on mission in Carmel is a powerful tool for making a difference in the world. By discerning God's will for their mission, the Carmelites can focus their efforts on the most important things. They are also able to work together more effectively.

The process of community discernment on mission in Carmel is also a source of hope for the world. By discerning God's will, the Carmelites can see the world through God's eyes. They can see the potential for good in every person and in every situation.

56. The communal character of the apostolate 

The communal character of the apostolate in Carmel refers to how the Carmelite Order carries out its mission of sharing God's love with the world. Carmelites believe that their mission is best fulfilled when it is carried out in a community setting, where they can support each other and work together to achieve their goals.

There are several reasons why the communal character of the apostolate is important to Carmelites.

ü  First, Carmelites believe that their community is a source of strength and support. They know that they can rely on each other for prayer, encouragement, and advice. They also know that they can share their gifts and talents with each other to benefit the community as a whole.

ü  Second, Carmelites believe that their community is a place where they can learn from each other. They can learn from each other's experiences, insights, and perspectives. They can also learn from each other's mistakes and successes. This shared learning helps Carmelites to grow and develop as individuals and as members of the Carmelite community.

ü  Third, Carmelites believe that their community is a place where they can be held accountable for their actions. They know that they are responsible for their own actions, but they also know that they are accountable to their community. This accountability helps Carmelites to stay true to their values and to live out their mission in a way that is consistent with the teachings of the Church.

The communal character of the apostolate is a way of life for Carmelites. It is an essential part of their identity and mission. It is a way for them to share God's love with the world in a way that is both effective and meaningful.

Here are some examples of how the communal character of the apostolate is expressed in Carmel:

ü Carmelites pray together regularly. They pray for each other, for the Church, and for the world. They also pray for the people they serve through their apostolic work.

ü Carmelites work together to carry out their mission. They share their gifts and talents with each other to achieve common goals. They also support each other in times of difficulty.

ü Carmelites hold each other accountable for their actions. They are honest with each other about their mistakes and weaknesses. They also offer each other support and encouragement to help them grow in holiness.

The communal character of the apostolate is a powerful force for good in the world. It is a way for Carmelites to make a difference in the world by sharing God's love with others. It is also a way for Carmelites to grow in their own faith and holiness.

57. The apostolate shared between friars, nuns, and laity 

The apostolate shared between friars, nuns, and laity in Carmel is a unique and powerful expression of the Carmelite Order's mission of sharing God's love with the world.

Carmelites believe that all members of the Order, regardless of their state of life, are called to participate in the apostolate. This means that friars, nuns, and laity are all called to use their gifts and talents to share God's love with others.

The apostolate shared between friars, nuns, and laity in Carmel is based on the principle of mutuality. This means that all members of the Order are responsible for each other and for the work of the Order as a whole.

There are many ways in which friars, nuns, and laity in Carmel share in the apostolate.

ü Friars and nuns are called to provide spiritual guidance and support to the laity. They do this through preaching, teaching, and counselling.

ü Friars and nuns are called to pray for the laity. They pray for the laity's needs, their intentions, and their salvation.

ü Friars and nuns are called to work with the laity in various ministries. They do this by teaching, serving the poor, and promoting justice and peace.

ü The laity are called to support the work of friars and nuns. They do this through prayer, financial support, and volunteering their time and talents.

The apostolate shared between friars, nuns, and laity in Carmel is a powerful way of sharing God's love with the world. It is a way for all members of the Order to live out their vocation and to make a difference in the world.

Here are some examples of how the apostolate shared between friars, nuns, and laity in Carmel is expressed:

ü Friars, nuns, and laity pray together regularly. They pray for each other, for the Church, and for the world. They also pray for the people they serve through their apostolic work.

ü Friars, nuns, and laity work together to carry out the Order's mission. They share their gifts and talents with each other to achieve common goals. They also support each other in times of difficulty.

ü Friars, nuns, and laity hold each other accountable for their actions. They are honest with each other about their mistakes and weaknesses. They also offer each other support and encouragement to help them grow in holiness.

The apostolate shared between friars, nuns, and laity in Carmel is a vital part of the Order's identity and mission. It is a way for the Order to share God's love with the world in a way that is both effective and meaningful.

IV. D. Unity of prayer – Fraternity – Mission

        58. Three aspects of an indivisible reality

Prayer, fraternity, and mission are the three fundamental aspects of the Teresian Charism. These elements are intimately interconnected and form an indivisible whole. They are not separate or distinct, but rather, they intertwine and support each other, shaping the life and spirituality of Teresian Carmelites.

Prayer

Prayer is the foundation of the Teresian Charism. It is the primary means through which Teresian Carmelites encounter God and grow in their relationship with Him. Teresian spirituality emphasizes the importance of a personal, intimate friendship with God, characterized by love, trust, and surrender. Prayer is seen as a conversation with God, a dialogue in which we share our joys, sorrows, and aspirations with Him. It is through prayer that we receive His grace and strength to live our lives according to His will.

Fraternity

Fraternity is the lifeblood of Teresian Carmelites. It is the sense of belonging, community, and shared purpose that binds them together. Teresian spirituality emphasizes the importance of living in a community, supporting one another in their spiritual journey, and sharing their gifts and talents for the common good. Fraternity is a source of love, acceptance, and mutual encouragement, helping Teresian Carmelites to grow in their faith and holiness.

Mission

The mission is the outward expression of Teresian Carmelites' love for God and their desire to share it with others. It is the act of putting their faith into action, bringing God's love and compassion to the world. Teresian spirituality emphasizes the importance of being witnesses to Christ in their daily lives, through their words, actions, and attitudes. The mission is not just something Teresian Carmelites do; it is who they are.

        59. Three elements that nourish one another

Prayer, fraternity, and mission are not merely three separate aspects of Teresian life; they are intimately interconnected and form an indivisible whole. Prayer provides the foundation for fraternity and mission, as it is through prayer that we deepen our relationship with God and receive the grace and strength to live out our vocation. Fraternity nurtures prayer, as it provides a supportive environment in which we can grow in our faith and spirituality. Mission flows from fraternity and prayer, as it is through our love for God and our relationships with others that we are called to serve the world.

The Teresian Charism, with its emphasis on prayer, fraternity, and mission, provides a powerful framework for living a life of love, service, and transformation. By embracing these three interconnected elements, Carmelites can become beacons of hope and compassion in the world, embodying the love and mercy of God.

        60. A harmony to be fostered

The Harmony of Prayer, Fraternity, and Mission is a beautiful and powerful concept that is central to the Teresian Charism. It is rooted in the belief that these three elements are not separate or distinct, but rather, they are interconnected and support each other. When we live in harmony with these three aspects of our lives, we can grow in our faith, love, and service to others.

Prayer is the foundation of our relationship with God. It is through prayer that we connect with the Divine, seek guidance and strength, and express our love and gratitude. Prayer can take many forms, from formal liturgies to informal conversations with God. The important thing is that we make it a regular part of our lives and that we approach it with humility, openness, and sincerity.

Fraternity is the community of love and support that we share with others. It is through fraternity that we find encouragement, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Fraternity can exist at many levels, from our intimate relationships with family and friends to our broader connections with the Church and community. The important thing is that we create and nurture relationships in which we can be honest, vulnerable, and supportive of one another.

Mission is the act of living out our faith in the world. It is through mission that we share God's love and compassion with others, and work to make the world a better place. The mission can take many forms, from volunteering our time to serving the poor and marginalized to speaking out against injustice and advocating for peace. The important thing is that we find ways to use our gifts and talents to make a positive impact on the world.

When we live in harmony with these three elements, we can experience a deeper connection with God, a stronger sense of community with others, and a greater sense of purpose in our lives. We can become more loving, compassionate, and effective in our service to others. (To be Continued)

                                                                                              

Prepared by 
Fr. Nicholas Macedon OCD