Teresian Charism
The Charism of Carmel embraces a healthy balance of solitude and community-living.
Solitude in which the soul can begin to hear God’s silent whisper and community life in which each sister will experience love and support from others who also share in the same Carmelite spirit. In community-living we come together for prayer, the liturgy, meals and recreation, and by living in a small community as envisioned by St. Teresa, we share in the joys, sorrows, and the “everyday-ness” of life.
Solitude in which the soul can begin to hear God’s silent whisper
Contemplative prayer
is the “life-work” of our community and it is our service for the Church. Prayer is our very life-breath – the essence of the Carmelite charism. Most distinguishable and a special dimension to the Carmelite charism is the relationship with Christ that we foster during prayer. St. Teresa encouraged her sisters to grow in relationship with God, striving to unite our will with His. Prayer for St. Teresa was about “being alone with the One we know loves us” (The Way of Perfection).
While we seek greater intimacy with Christ in prayer, our prayer is not for ourselves but for others…
Needs of the Church
Through our life of prayer and contemplation, we lift up the needs of the Church and of the world, remaining with Christ deep within our soul as with an intimate friend. Our commitment to the way of life here in Carmel is out of love for Christ and it is our response of gratitude to God. While we seek greater intimacy with Christ in prayer, our prayer is not for ourselves but is for others, flowing out as though from a fountain for the needs of the whole world.
Charism
- is a pure gift of God for the good of the Church…
- is a window on the gospel…
- is a framed vision of people following Jesus in a dynamic and living reality…
- has the potential to transform individuals
- is deeply rooted in healthy spirituality…
- becomes a strong plant that can be transplanted to other climates, other cultures, and other eras.