Community Profile

Discalced Carmelite Nuns, Carmel of the Sacred Heart and St. Joseph Mother Marie Therese of the Queen of Carmel, O.C.D. Prioress 2201 W. Main Street Jefferson City, MO 65109 573-636-3364 dcmjc1@hotmail.com www.carmelitenunsstjoseph.org

Community Information

International? The Discalced Carmelite Order is international No. in community (professed members) 5 Year founded 1960 Generalate/ motherhouse Autonomous Province/federation St. Joseph's Federation Represented in US (Arch)dioceses Jefferson City, MO

About Us

Mission statement/description The Carmelite is one who has heard the personal invitation of Jesus Christ to become wholly consecrated to him in a life of “hidden union with God.” With Mary, the Carmelite strives to realize this call through a life of love, prayer, and sacrifice― participating in Carmel’s hidden but effective apostolate to serve the needs of the entire Church, especially priests. Saint Therese described this vocation: “In the heart of my mother the Church, I will be LOVE…” Charity is central: manifesting God’s love to the Church and world, particularly those nearest—one’s own Sisters. In union with the Magisterium of the Church, this community values the traditions and charism of Carmel as intended by Saint Teresa and Saint John. The enclosure is cherished, and it is considered a privilege to wear the Habit of Our Lady. An eremitical spirit of silence, solitude, and prayer is preserved within the loving and supportive setting of community life. As intended by Saint Teresa, community life is experienced as a loving, joyous, simple living with a family spirit. Qualifications for entry Basic requirements include a high school education; sound mental and physical health; good judgment and common sense, sufficient maturity to live the enclosed life and the ability to get along well with others in a small community: some work experience is very beneficial. Formation program Being an autonomous monastery, the formation is carried out within the monastery. Postulancy extends from 6 months to one year and novitiate for two years. Temporary vows is for three years but, may be extended for six years if necessary, followed by the Profession of Solemn Vows. Age range/limit 18-45 Consider belated vocations? No Belated/late vocations explanation ...although a special case may be considered.