In this “Carmelite Conversation” on 1st November 2023, Gabrielle Fogarty, Moderator of the Lay Carmelites in Australia and New Zealand and several other Lay Carmelites situate the Lay Carmelites today within the history of the Order. They share what it means to be a Lay Carmelite and witness to their own calling into the Carmelite Order.
Our history and tradition teaches us that the disciples responded to a call to follow Jesus on a spiritual path towards God. It was this continuing search to fulfil a deep desire that brought the pilgrims to the Holy Land 800 years ago where the Carmelite Order was founded, inspired by Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the prophet Elijah.
The search continues today by countless lay people. They are drawn to the Carmelite charism through many and varied openings where they begin a journey to discern God’s call towards becoming a Lay member of the Carmelite Family.
A recording of the session is available on youtube via this link.