OCDS of the CA-AZ Province of St. Joseph
Phoenix Chapter
ABOUT US
Carmelite tradition traces its origin to a community of hermits on Mount Carmel. The Order is considered to be under the special protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and has a strong devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
The charism (or spiritual focus) of the Carmelite Order is contemplation. Carmelites understand contemplation in a broad sense encompassing prayer, community, and service. These elements are at the heart of the Carmelite spirit.
As members of the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order (OCDS), we embrace this way of life.
Our Community's Mission Statement:
The St. Joseph Community of Secular Discalced Carmelites embraces humility, obedience, and fraternal love, guided by the Holy Spirit, through contemplative prayer, under the mantle of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, and the apostolic zeal of our founders, St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross.