Members of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS) are faithful members of the Catholic Church, called to live in allegiance to Jesus Christ, through friendship with the One who loves us and in service to the Church. Under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, in the biblical tradition of the prophet Elijah, and inspired by the teachings of St. Teresa of Jesus and St. John of the Cross they seek to deepen their Christian commitment received in baptism. (Const. I, 3)
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Mental prayer is in my opinion nothing else than an intimate sharing between friends; it means taking time frequently to be alone with Him who we know loves us. (St. Teresa of Avila)
To be taken with love for a soul, God does not look on its greatness, but the greatness of its humility. (St. John of the Cross)
For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; a simple look toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy. (St. Therese of Lisieux}
Flos Carmeli
Flower of Carmel,Tall vine blossom laden;
Splendor of heaven,
Child-bearing yet maiden,
None equals thee.
Mother so tender,
Who no man didst know,
On Carmel's children
Thy favors bestow.
Star of the Sea.
Strong stem of Jesse,
Who bore one bright flower,
Be ever near us
And guard us each hour,
Who serve the here.
Purest of lilies,
That flowers among thorns,
Bring he help to the true heart
That in weakness turns
and trusts in thee.
Strongest of armor,
We trust in thy might:
Under thy mantle,
Hard pressed in the fight,
We call to thee.
Our way uncertain,
Surrounded by foes,
Unfailing counsel
You give to those
Who turn to thee.
O gentle Mother
Who in Carmel reigns,
Share with thy servants
That gladness you gained
And now enjoy.
Hail, Gate of Heaven,
With glory now crowned,
Bring us to safety
Where thy Son is found,
True joy to see. Amen
Contact Information: info@steubenvilleocds.com
~Do you have a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary?
~Do you feel inspired by the writings of Saint John of the Cross, Saint Teresa of Avila, and Saint Therese of Lisieux?
~Do you long for communion with other like-minded Catholics?
~Do you desire to become holy, while living in the world?
