Vocations

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Q.  If I am single when I become a Carmelite Secular, can I still get married later?
    A. Yes. A vocation as a Secular Carmelite does not impede any change in your marital status. The Secular’s promise of chastity requires chastity according to your state of life (which may change) and is not a vow of celibacy.

  2. Q.  Can married people become Discalced Carmelite Seculars?
    A. Certainly! So long as being a Carmelite does not create friction in your marriage (your primary vocation) or interfere generally with your married life, you may pursue a vocation to Carmel as a married person.

  3. Q.  May non-Catholics become Discalced Carmelite Seculars?
    A. The Eucharist and sacramental life are fundamental to the life of a Carmelite Secular. Thus, to become a Carmelite Secular, you must first become a member of the Catholic Church and able to receive the Eucharist in good conscience in accordance with the laws of the Church.

  4. Q.   Can I still be a Carmelite if I do not say the Rosary every day and do not attend daily Mass?
    A. Yes, you can.  A Secular is asked to attend daily Mass, as able.  The daily Rosary is not a requirement.  However, members are expected to “cultivate a filial devotion to Mary as their model of interior prayer, discipleship, and service.” (Statutes Section IV:1)