FIRST PROMISES
We are excited to welcome Deirdre O’Sullivan a member of the Elijah of Mount Carmel Community Avila, who took her first promise on September 28th 2024 during their monthly meeting, Fr. Felix Okolo presided. It was a special moment for Deirdre and the Elijah community; a first step in a meaningful journey, this is more than just words—it’s a commitment to growth, Congratulations on reaching this milestone and the whole Community of OCDS welcomes Deirdre among their number
New OCDS Community in Limerick, Ireland
The Little Flower Community
Sixteen Secular Carmelite Aspirants from a newly formed group in Limerick (Ireland) took their First Promises on September 2nd 2023. The group, which comprises twenty members, at various stages of formation, is under the spiritual guidance of Fr. Vincent O’Hara OCD, Prior of Clarendon Street, Dublin. Undaunted by the perils of Covid, the group held its inaugural meeting on zoom in August 2020. It is testament to the determination and commitment of both Fr. Vincent and the group members that the monthly meetings continued on zoom for as long as was necessary. It was a joyous occasion when the members could finally come together in person, initially, briefly, in October 2021, and finally long term in the Spring of 2022.
The monthly meetings which are held at the excellent location of the St. John Bosco Centre, Limerick. are very well attended. The spirit of Carmel is key to the formation i.e. prayer, silence and contemplation in an atmosphere of mutual friendship and love. The meetings, which are preceded by a shared time of quiet prayer in the adjoining chapel, include presentations, study of the Carmelite Doctors, sharing, and recreation.
The members owe a huge debt of gratitude to Fr. Vincent O’Hara OCD for his encouragement, support and guidance. He recognised the depth of faith, sincerity and commitment of the members and was willing to accompany them on their journey, even though it involved something unprecedented i.e. holding the monthly formation meetings over Zoom! Fr Vincent’s belief in the power of the Holy Spirit to work through present-day technology was richly rewarded when, on September 2nd, he presided over the Mass at which the group made their First Promises. The group was further honoured by the attendance of many presidents from other Irish Secular Carmelite groups. As the Aspirants read their First Promises, a depth of spirituality, that would have comforted St. John of the Cross, was evident. Some tears were shed as the First Promises were being signed on the Altar.
Afterwards light refreshments were served. St Therese undoubtedly smiled on everyone as they worked together, to create a blessed and memorable occasion., “doing little things with great love”. An atmosphere of joy that would delight our foundress, St. Teresa of Avila, was palpable. One could imagine her joining in the celebrations, and entertaining the group with tambourine and dancing! The celebration united the group even more closely and encouraged them to pursue the Carmelite journey with a “determined determination.”
Another joyous occasion
Patricia Deighan and Serena Connelly of the St Colmcille Community Derry, N Ireland. Make their first promises on March 17th 2024. below Patrica and Serena share with us their individual journey to Carmel, all OCDS community’s welcome and extend warmest congratulations and heartfelt blessings to Patricia and Serena, in their moment of celebration, as they continue to walk the path of Carmel.
In the picture from left Spiritual assistant Fr. Cajetan, Betty McNicholl their Formation Director, Patricia Deighan and Serena Connolly
My first experience of Carmelite Spirituality was when I attended St. Joseph’s Carmelite Monastery (Termonbacca, Derry), to take part in a Cursillo weekend. The friars gave beautiful talks on the Carmelite saints and their spiritual lives. I felt a great need to know more and to become closer to God. I was inspired by the devout lives of the Saints to whom I was introduced.
A short while later, I went on a silent weekend retreat with the friars as I was discerning to join the Secular Order. Within a few months, I was officially introduced to the Order and became a “Visitor” for 6 months. During this time I continued to discern what God wanted from me. I knew it was the right thing for me to do and there followed a period of 2 years in Formation.
On Sunday, 17th March, I made my First Promise during Mass in front of my community. I received the Brown Scapular and blessing from Fr. Cajetan. I was now a Carmelite. What a beautiful feeling that was! So many hugs and gifts followed from my community and, of course, the cup of tea and a bun.
I have made a commitment to follow Jesus and do what God wants me to do. I want to grow closer to God through service and bringing others to Him. I want to know, love, and serve God through prayer, meditation, contemplation, and study.
In three years time, with God’s blessing, I will make my Definitive Promise. I will pray to Our Blessed Mother Mary, St. Joseph, St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, and St. Therese of Lisieux for help and guidance along the way. I know that my community will also be there to guide me as I continue my Formation.
St. Teresa’s words have always inspired me:
“May today there be peace within
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us”
I intend to live now, as an official Carmelite,
in the way St. Teresa described. -Patricia Deighan
I have always been interested in Carmelite spirituality and the lives of its great saints. In discerning my call from the Lord, to draw ever closer to Him, I felt that the Carmelite life of prayer and beatitude was where He was leading me.
Making my first promise on the 17th March in the Secular Order of Carmel is the result of several years of spiritual formation and growth within my Carmelite family. This God willing, will be renewed in three years’ time, where with God’s grace and blessing I will make my definitive promise. This promise involves a commitment to strive for evangelical perfection in the spirit of the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty and obedience along with the Beatitudes.
As I continue my journey to climb the mountain of God I pray that I will be ever more faithful to the call of Carmel in my commitment to a life of prayer and recollection in my daily life and to be a living flame of love in this world.
-Serena Connelly
A joyous occasion
December 16th 2023! marks a important occasion as we came together to joyfully extend our warmest greetings to Imelda, who has made her first promises before our spiritual assistant, Fr. Jim Noonan, Sisters of the Tallow Community, our President Con Lucy, and our gathered OCDS community.
It is with immense joy that we embrace Imelda as she takes this significant step in her spiritual journey, affirming her commitment and dedication to the Carmelite spirit before the members of our community. This occasion is a testimony to the spirit of unity, faith, and shared values that define our Tallow OCDS community.
May this celebration serve as an inspiration for all of us, reaffirming our faith and commitment to support one another on our paths of faith and spiritual growth. Together, let us rejoice in this special moment and extend our heartfelt congratulations and warmest welcome to Imelda as she embarks on this meaningful chapter within our Carmelite OCDS community.
