Welcome to Carmel Calls
We are the Congregation of the Apostolic Carmel, a community of women dedicated to living out the Gospel through a life of prayer, contemplation, and active service. We invite you to explore our rich history, our ministries, our way of life, and the spiritual foundation that guides us.
The Apostolic Carmel was founded in 1868 by Mother Veronica, a courageous and visionary woman who sought to combine the contemplative spirit of Carmel with an active apostolate. Inspired by the Carmelite tradition and the teachings of St. Teresa of Avila, Mother Veronica established the congregation to provide education and spiritual formation, particularly for young girls, in India. Today, our presence has expanded globally, continuing her legacy of faith, love, and service.
Rooted in the charism of our founder, the Apostolic Carmel is committed to various forms of ministry that reflect our mission to serve God and humanity:
Education: We operate schools and educational institutions that nurture intellectual growth and spiritual development.
Healthcare: Our sisters provide compassionate care in hospitals, clinics, and other health services, reaching out to the sick and marginalized.
Social Services: We are actively involved in social justice initiatives, working with the poor, advocating for human rights, and fostering community development.
Through these ministries, we strive to be instruments of God’s love and mercy, making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.
Life in the Apostolic Carmel is a harmonious blend of prayer, community living, and apostolic work. Our daily routine is centered on the Eucharist, communal prayer, and personal contemplation. We live together as a family, supporting and encouraging one another in our spiritual journey and mission.
Key aspects of our lifestyle include:
Prayer: Daily Mass, the Liturgy of the Hours, and personal meditation.
Community: Sharing meals, recreation, and responsibilities within our convents.
Apostolate: Engaging in our various ministries and outreach activities.
As Apostolic Carmelites, we embrace the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience:
Chastity: Living a celibate life dedicated to God, enabling us to love more freely and universally.
Poverty: Embracing simplicity and detachment from material possessions, fostering trust in God’s providence.
Obedience: Surrendering our will to God’s will, as discerned through the guidance of our superiors and community.
These vows are the foundation of our commitment, guiding us in our quest for holiness and service.
Our spirituality is deeply rooted in the Carmelite tradition, drawing inspiration from St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. Central to our spiritual life are:
Contemplative Prayer: Seeking a profound union with God through silent, interior prayer.
Devotion to Mary: Honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary as our mother and model of perfect discipleship.
Scriptural Reflection: Regular meditation on the Word of God, allowing it to shape and transform us.
Through these practices, we aim to grow in intimacy with God and to radiate His love to the world.
Join Us
If you feel a calling to explore this way of life, we invite you to journey with us. The path to becoming an Apostolic Carmelite is one of deep discernment, guided by prayer and the support of our community. We are here to accompany you as you seek to understand God’s plan for your life.
Thank you for visiting Carmel Calls. May God bless you as you discern His call.
Thank you for visiting Carmel Calls. May God bless you as you discern His call.