The Laity
Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS) is a catholic association of lay people and an integral part of the Discalced Carmelites Order. Its character is essentially secular, diocesan priests may also become members of OCDS.
Part of the Carmelite Order
Carmelite Seculars, together with the Friars and Nuns, are sons and daughters of the Order of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St Teresa of Jesus. As a result, they share the same charism with the religious, each according to their particular state of life. It is one family with the same spiritual possessions, the same call to holiness and the same apostolic mission. Secular members contribute to the Order the benefits proper to their secular state of life.
Called to prayer in the world
The members of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites are faithful members of the Church, called to live “in allegiance to Jesus Christ” through “friendship with the One we know loves us” and in service to the Church. Under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, in the biblical tradition of the prophet Elijah and inspired by the teachings of St Teresa of Jesus and St John of the Cross, they seek to deepen their Christian commitment received in baptism.
The fulfilling of the Secular Carmelite vocation is based on the “Rule of St. Albert of Jerusalem”, “Constitutions” approved by The Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life and “Statutes” approved by the General Definitory.
Provinces in Poland
There are two independent Provinces of the Discalced Carmelites in Poland: Warsaw’s Province and Cracow’s Province with Provincial Councils of the Secular Order related to them, associating Communities according to territorial division.