New OCDS Community in Limerick, Ireland

Sixteen Secular Carmelite Aspirants from a newly formed group in Limerick (Ireland) took their First Promises on  September  2^nd  2023. The group, which comprises twenty members, at various stages of formation, is under the spiritual guidance of Fr. Vincent O’Hara OCD, Prior of Clarendon Street, Dublin. Undaunted by the perils of Covid, the group held its inaugural meeting on zoom in August 2020.  It is testament to the determination and commitment of both Fr. Vincent and the group members that the monthly meetings continued on zoom for as long as was necessary. It was a joyous occasion when the members could finally come together in person, initially, briefly,  in October 2021, and finally long term in the Spring of 2022.

The monthly meetings which are held at the excellent location of the St. John Bosco Centre, Limerick. are very well attended. The spirit of Carmel is key to the formation i.e. prayer, silence and contemplation in an atmosphere of mutual friendship and love. The meetings, which are preceded by a shared time of quiet prayer in the adjoining chapel, include presentations, study of the Carmelite Doctors, sharing, and recreation.  

The members owe a huge debt of gratitude to Fr. Vincent O’Hara OCD for his encouragement, support and guidance. He recognised the depth of faith, sincerity and commitment of the members and was willing to accompany them on their journey, even though it involved something unprecedented i.e. holding the monthly formation meetings over Zoom! Fr Vincent’s belief in the power of the Holy Spirit to work through present-day technology was richly rewarded when, on September 2^nd, he presided over the Mass at which the group made their First Promises. The group was further honoured by the attendance of many presidents from other Irish Secular Carmelite groups. As the Aspirants read their First Promises, a depth of spirituality, that would have comforted St. John of the Cross, was evident. Some tears were shed as the First Promises were being signed on the Altar.

Afterwards light refreshments were served. St Therese undoubtedly smiled on everyone as they worked together, to create a blessed and memorable occasion., “doing little things with great love”. An atmosphere of joy that would delight our foundress, St. Teresa of Avila, was palpable. One could imagine her joining in the celebrations, and entertaining the group with tambourine and dancing! The celebration united the group even more closely and encouraged them to pursue the Carmelite journey with a “determined determination.”