Cloistered Carmelites

The first Carmelites were a group of Hermits gathered on Mount Carmel, in the 12th century. After the example of Mary, their Patroness, they devoted themselves to prayer and contemplation, in a simple austere life of solitude and silence.

Blessed John Soreth (1394-1471), was instrumental in establishing the Order of Cloistered Carmelite Nuns. In the 15th century the monasteries of Cloistered Carmelite Nuns were reformed by St. Teresa of Avila, the great Mystic and Doctor of the Church.

Mary is the model of every contemplative life. One of the great symbols of Carmelite spirituality is the Scapular. 

Two essential elements of the Teresian Charism:

a) – a life of personal prayer and intimacy with God,                                        
b) – the Ecclesial and Apostolic aim of serving the needs of the Church more effectively by a life of penance, fasting, observance of the Rule and virtuous life.
   
The Cloistered Carmelites are in this Parish since the year 1965, at the invitation of late Cardinal Valerian Gracias. They make Altar-Bread for many parishes in the city of Mumbai.

Parishioners are welcome to meet with the Cloistered Carmelites and share their problems and difficulties.  In turn the Carmelites pray with them and speak to them of God’s love and mercy.  The Carmelite Chapel is a peaceful retreat for unburdening oneself.