A
contradiction? No.
Here
the values of hermit and community living unite in a synthesis which is rich and
fulfilling. Carmel is a space where
one is free to give oneself completely to God in a life of prayer, accompanied
by the joyful support of other women who are responding to the same call. (c.f.
our Pages here: FREEDOM and FRIENDSHIP). Though
cloistered, its horizons are limitless. Bearing the whole human family in her
heart before God, the Carmelite's apostolate transcends time and space. "It
is like embracing the Infinite", (Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity). PRAYER
takes many forms: e.g. • silent
personal prayer in solitude and in community; • the
public prayer of the Church, the Divine Office, prayed in common several times
each day; • being
drawn ever more deeply into the mystery of Christ through the ever-new, annual
unfolding of the liturgical seasons from Advent to Pentecost. |  |
Each
day, prayer, work, relaxation with one's Sisters blend into one seamless whole,
lived simply and joyfully in the presence of God. It
is a life characterised by joy, friendship and freedom. | 
