Stained Glass Scapulars-Reflections on the Secular Carmelite Rule

Carmelite Rule-Article 9

The primitive Church, the members of which were "of one heart and soul" (Acts 4:32) is the model upon which the Secular Order bases its community life. The Secular Carmelite should cultivate fraternal relations with the other members of their religious family, and bear in mind that, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, their fidelity to their vocation affects the spiritual welfare of each of them.

This excerpt from the Rule speaks of the working of the Holy Spirit in our life to help us be faithful to our promises and to each other and to the Order.

This excerpt also refers to the early Church, and how they knew each others' needs, because they were united by a common vision of living out the Gospel as was handed down to them by the Apostles.

How do we know the needs of our brothers and sisters in our local community unless we spend time with them and get to know them? Meeting together once a month is not enough time to form deep bonds of spiritual friendship.

Let's challenge ourselves to truly get to know our brothers and sisters in Carmel.

Here are a few suggestions:

*Call or email a member in between meetings. Encourage them if they are having personal problems.

*Participate in an online community discussion.

*Meet for lunch or dinner.

*Meet for daily mass and get-together afterward.

*Pray for the living and deceased members of the community.

Sometimes we meet with people for years and do not even know the name of their spouse or how many children they have. We do not know their occupation and the things they are interested in.

Let us make an effort, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to truly have our community become "One" in the Body of Christ. A "oneness" so complete that we are willing to discover and share the joys and sorrows of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Peace be with you!

Rosemarie,OCDS