What you are about to read is my story, my journey, my destination, and my heaven on earth. I have been a secular Discalced Carmelite since the spring of 1988, living in the world, and spending the last 49 years as either a social worker or teaching in Catholic schools.
Members of the third order/Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites live our vocations in the world rather than in a monastery. Having the freedom to be physically present to others in our families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and parishes, we bring the fruit of our prayer to the world. We share the same universal CALL to holiness and Teresian Carmelite charism and traditions as those in religious life. We come from all walks of life: single, married, widowed, deacons, and diocesan priests. Whatever our situation may be, we strive to live in the presence of God and promote awareness of God’s love and mercy to everyone we meet.
Third Order Discalced Carmelites Formation Program
The third order/secular order of Discalced Carmelites has a formation program commencing with attendance at a minimum of 3 community meetings, followed by Aspirancy (12 sessions/1 year).
During Aspirancy, basic instruction to the Discalced Carmelite Order is covered: its history, charism, and legislation.
Next are the First Promises (24 sessions). During these 24 sessions, our objective is to deepen our life of prayer and knowledge of Teresian Carmel. Final Promise is a 3-year study preparing oneself for a lifetime commitment to Carmel, and a promise to live the evangelical counsels and spirit of the Beatitudes for life.
Ongoing formation is a lifelong program through communal study at monthly meetings.
My Journey Began With An Invitation
My journey began with an invitation from a co-worker to attend a monthly community meeting. This was the beginning of three years of study leading to Aspirancy, and the taking of my first promises.
Our Lady Star of the Sea Group is the only third order/secular order Carmelite group in the Diocese of Madison. It is my prayer that this group would continue to grow, and multiple in the Diocese of Madison, Wisconsin.
If you feel you are being CALLED to a deeper relationship with our Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST, feel free to contact me. ( Information provided at the bottom of this article)
LEARN MORE
Practicing Roman Catholics, who are in full communion with the Church, may be admitted to Formation in the Third Order/Secular Order provided they are:
- At least 18 years of age
- Able to provide documentation of Sacraments received.
- Are not already members of any other group that requires promises or vows.
- Living the Catholic faith for a minimum of 18 months after Baptism.
Our Lady Star of the Sea Group
Our Lady Star of the Sea Group is one of 145 communities located in 23 states, DC, and the Virgin Islands, and is considered part of the Washington Province. I am one of 3,800 members living out my vocation in the Washington Province.
For the location of a Third Order/Secular Order OCDS community near you, visit the comprehensive website at www.ocdswashprov.org.
May you all know in your heart the deep and everlasting love that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has for you. May you hear his call. Say yes to His request. Take up your cross and follow him. Be part of his mission. He has a job for you that only you can fill.
This is a guest post written by Nancy J. Everhard, OCDS, CSW, BA.
Image: Photo by Olivia Snow on Unsplash
