Temporary 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:  
 A minimum of 36 Sessions in three years. This period can be extended for 3 years (OCDS Stat III;4)

Way of Life:

1. Attend and participate in monthly community meetings and   formation sessions
2. Practice meditative/ silent 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.

Materials:

• The Book of Her Life, Volume One of The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila
  
• The Story of a Soul
  
• The Ascent of Mount Carmel, the Collected Works of St. John of the Cross (one volume)
  
• The Interior Castle, Volume One of The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila
  

Requirements to make Final (Definitive) Promise:

1. Interview with Council
2. Letter of Intent (Why the person wants to make Final (Definitive) Promise

 

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Course of Studies

Year One:

• The Book of Her Life - November to April
  
• The Story of a Soul - May to October

Year Two:

• The Ascent of Mount Carmel - November to October
  

Year Three:

• The Interior Castle - November to October