Formation
Aspirancy
Preparation for reception of the ceremonial Brown Scapular
Goal:
Aspirancy is the time to present an overview of what it means to live out and understand the charism and spirit of Carmel as a lay person.
This includes an introduction to the Order's history and traditions, its legislation and its spirituality within the context of the Catholic Church and the local OCDS community. Aspirancy should assist the candidate and community in the discernment of a vocation.
Duration:
12 Sessions in a year
Requirements:
1) Participate in monthly meetings of the community
2) Participate in monthly aspirancy classes
3) Begin a regular time of daily silent/mental prayer
4) Begin to pray at least part of the Liturgy of the Hours
5) Participate in daily Mass as far as possible.
Formation for Temporary Promise
Goal:
To prepare candidates for making the Temporary Promise through an understanding of the Teresian Carmel, a deeper study and experience of prayer in the Teresian tradition, a detailed study of the OCDS Legislation (Rule of St Albert, Constitutions and Statutes) in order to provide a thorough understanding of the promise they are aspiring to make.
Duration:
24 Sessions in two years
Requirements:
The candidates will work toward gradually implementing these requirements in their lives, practicing them consistently by the time they make their Promise.
1) Attend and participate in monthly community meetings and formation sessions
2) Practice silent/mental prayer daily for at least 30 minutes
3) Pray Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours. Night prayer is encouraged.
4) Participate in daily Mass as far as possible.
5) Participate frequently in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
6) Engage in a daily examination of conscience.
7) Fast on the vigils of the Carmelite feasts listed in our Statutes
8) Wear the small brown scapular or scapular medal daily.
9) Participate in the community apostolate.
Formation for Definitive Promise
Goal:
To prepare candidates for making the Definitive Promise through a deeper immersion in the spiritual tradition of Teresian Carmel as exemplified by the Carmelite Doctors of the Church; St Teresa of Jesus, St. John of the Cross, and St Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face. The candidate will work to integrate this Carmelite spirituality into their lives as a lay person.
Duration:
36 Sessions in three years
This can be extended for 3 years (Provincial Statues III, #38)
Requirements:
The candidates will strive to maintain consistency and regularity in the practices begun in the prior level of formation.
1) Attend and participate in monthly community meetings and formation sessions
2) Practice silent/mental prayer daily for at least 30 minutes
3) Pray Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours. Night prayer is encouraged.
4) Participate in daily Mass as far as possible.
5) Participate frequently in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
6) Engage in a daily examination of conscience.
7) Fast on the vigils of the Carmelite feasts listed in our Statutes
8) Wear the small brown scapular or scapular medal daily.
9) Participate in the community apostolate.
10) Share in the duties and responsibilities of the community as designated by the local council.
Ongoing Formation
It is the responsibility of the local council and each definitely professed member to assure that definitely professed members receive and participate in Ongoing Formation with other community members. Such formation involves a lifelong study of solid spiritual material that will enhance our Carmelite vocations, offering us opportunities to share live and grow in accord with God's grace and the insights received from each other.
It is important to frequently return to foundational materials: the major writings of our Carmelite Doctors of the Church (Sts. Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, and Therese of Lisieux) and to Church documents. In addition, sampling the writings of our Carmelite Saints and exploring recent scholarship on Carmelite topics can be helpful.