A group of Lay Carmelites gathered at Sts. Peter and Paul’s chapel in Winter Park to honor the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on July 16. Wearing their distinctive brown scapulars, they renewed their vows, symbolizing a commitment to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Maria Balisado, coordinator of the Third Order Carmelites (T.O. Carms), expressed enthusiasm about the community's growth after challenges posed by the COVID pandemic. "As soon as I entered the basilica, I felt electric," Balisado said after visiting the Basilica of St. Elijah of Mt. Carmel in Israel. She returned determined to revive her local Carmelite community.

Balisado's personal journey includes overcoming significant hardships with faith as her anchor. “I trust them implicitly with my life,” she stated about her devotion to Jesus and the Blessed Mother.

The Carmelite tradition follows the Rule of St. Albert, emphasizing contemplation, community, and service through practices like daily Mass and scripture meditation. Balisado remarked on how simple gestures can bring hope: “Even just a smile or a ‘Hello’ brings hope.”

Kathleen Richardville, overseeing visitation for communities in Florida and other states, shared insights into Carmelite spirituality: “It has intensely deepened my relationship with Jesus Christ.” She mentioned that there are seven active Carmelite communities within the Diocese of Orlando.

Michelle Castiblanco, another member in formation, highlighted how prioritizing prayer is essential for her role as a mother and person: “It’s really a glue for me.”

Richardville invites others who have a deep love for Jesus Christ to explore joining the Carmelite way: “If they want to become Carmel... then the Carmelite way is their way.”

For those interested in learning more about joining this spiritual path, contact Kathleen Richardville at 407-421-7769 or krville@cfl.rr.com.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff