Prayer Request
In the Carmel, everything revolves around prayer. Since we are purely contemplative we have no external activities or apostolate such as teaching, nursing or social work. However, the foundation of St. Joseph at Avila reminds us of the need to be apostles in a world of crisis. The Discalced Carmelites of St. Joseph are apostles in the silence of their cells and cloisters. In the present circumstances, St. Teresa’s apostolic spirit seems necessary. St. Teresa’s summons are pressing: “Oh, my sisters in Christ! Help me to entreat this of the Lord, who has brought us together here for that very purpose. This is your vocation; this must be your business; this must be your desires; this your tears; this your petitions.
Though prayer is our main work, like any family we need to “earn our living by the sweat of our brow.” There are our daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, stitching, gardening etc. Our income is from host making, stitching frocks for babies, and dairy. We are very grateful for the help and support of our friends and benefactors that make it possible for us to continue our life of prayer for the Church and the world.
Our Holy Mother St. Teresa wanted her Carmels to be small in number so that the atmosphere of a family may be present in the community. In order to help foster an easy dialogue with each other, we have two periods of recreations each day. For a community to remain united, along with prayer sincere sisterly communication is essential. We share our family problems, joys and sorrows with the community and become one in love.
