Franciscan and Carmelite Spirituality

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I really like reading about St. Therese, she was truly a great doctor of our Church, and a great saint. She has so many insights to things… I like Carmelite spirituality because it takes one out of themselves and “things” and puts all thought and actions on God. It’s also Marian. The solitude seems to bother me some though.

However, I also like Franciscan spirituality because it closely follows the gospels and lives them. This is how God has always spoken to me. And this is what I think God is leading me towards. I am currently leaning towards Capuchin, however… I like a lot of the Carmelite spirituality, especially that of the mystics. I like contemplative prayer.

If I join a Franciscan order (Capuchin), will I also get that bit of carmelite spirituality? I like to stick with St. Therese if I can.

Feel free to post your thoughts or discuss more about either orders.
 
Be reassured that Capuchin/Franciscan spirituality isn’t exclusive regarding saints. There is a focus particular to differing spiritualities, but much common Catholic religious ground.
St Therese was a Carmelite, but she lived the gospel life faithfully, and as you may recall from her autobiography, the gospels provided her principle reading.

I know both spiritualities and have lived in both Carmelite and Capuchin parishes, and have known priests and brothers from both these Orders.
I love St Therese and she helped to form my spirituality and at the same time I am profoundly affected by my Franciscan studies and by the 'gospel way of life."
These spiritualities are entwined,
and a friend recently professed as a Franciscan, faithfully reads both Carmelite and Franciscan primary sources and finds that they complement his spiritual understanding and development.

Have you thought to contact vocational directors of both communities to discuss your concern with them?
 
someguy14 said:
Im posting a website I found interesting for Discalced Carmelite’s.

There are also many website’s for Franciscan Friar’s/Sister’s.

Capuchin Sister’s.

Capuchin Franciscan Friar’s.

I also recently contacted Fr. Tom Betz, currently in a Franciscan order. He’s enjoyable to talk with and very inviting to any question’s and interest’s people have. His email is frtbetz@yahoo.com
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Thank you very much for your information someguy14. And thank you all for posting, all very helpful! 🙂
 
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