The
Constitutions of the Carmelite Order stand as an expression of the ideals and spirit of the Order of
Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Foundational sources for the Constitutions include the desert
hermit vocation as exemplified in the life of the Prophet
Elijah. For the
Carmelite the contemplative vocation is exemplified par excellence in the life of the Virgin Mary, beloved to the Order under the title of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Additionally, the
Carmelite Rule of St. Albert and the
Book of the First Monks comprise fundamental points of reference in the life and spirituality of the Order.
Between the 13th and 16th centuries the Order lost much of its vigour. The reform led by
Teresa of Avila and
John of the Cross restored Carmelite life with a new joy and asceticism. The
Discalced Carmelite renewal saw the Contstitutions reaffirmed and strengthened. They were again revitalised under the directives of the
Second Vatican Council.
External Links
★
Carmelite Vocation
★
Discalced Carmelite Calendar and Saints
Internal Links
Carmelites
Byzantine Discalced Carmelites
Carmelite Rule of St. Albert
Book of the First Monks
Carmelite Rite
Hermit