ABOUT US

A Discalced Carmelite Secular (OCDS) is a lay member of the Catholic Church who feels called to live out the Carmelite spiritual tradition in their daily life within the world. They strive for holiness through prayer, community, and service, inspired by the teachings of St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. They are not monks or nuns, but rather laypeople who integrate Carmelite spirituality into their existing lives. 

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Key Characteristics:

• Lay Members:

  OCDS members are laypeople, meaning they are not members of religious orders like friars or nuns, but rather individuals living ordinary lives within the world. 

• Carmelite Spirituality:

  They are drawn to the spirituality of the Discalced Carmelites, a branch of the Carmelite Order known for its emphasis on contemplative prayer, simplicity, and union with God. 

• Evangelical Life:

  They seek to live out the Gospel's teachings in their daily lives, embracing the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, even within their secular state. 

• Community Life:

  They belong to local communities or study groups where they meet regularly for formation, prayer, and fellowship. 

• Service:

  They seek to serve the Church and the world through their vocations, integrating their prayer life with their daily work and relationships. 

• Mary's Example:

  They follow the example of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, meditating on God's word and striving to live in accordance with His will. ​

In essence, Discalced Carmelite Seculars are ordinary people seeking a deeper relationship with God through the unique lens of Carmelite spirituality, living out their faith in the midst of their everyday lives.