Constitutions of the Carmelite Order
The Constitutions of the Carmelite Order stand as an expression of the ideals and spirit of the Order of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Foundational sources for the Constitutions include the desert hermit vocation as exemplified in the life of the Prophet Elijah. For the Carmelite the contemplative vocation is exemplified par excellence in the life of the Virgin Mary, beloved to the Order under the title of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Additionally, the Carmelite Rule of St. Albert and the Book of the First Monks comprise fundamental points of reference in the life and spirituality of the Order.
Between the 13th and 16th centuries the Order lost much of its vigour. The reform led by Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross restored Carmelite life with a new joy and asceticism. The Discalced Carmelite renewal saw the Contstitutions reaffirmed and strengthened. They were again revitalised under the directives of the Second Vatican Council.
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