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History of the Order

Saint Teresa of Avila Cleveland CarmelSaint John of the Cross Cleveland Carmel
The Order of Carmel, in its desire to follow the Lord Jesus, takes its title and inspiration from Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Carmelites also feel one with the prophet Elijah. In this prophet, who listened attentively and then acted on the word of God, Carmelites recognize their vocation. Centuries later Saint Teresa of Avila initiated a reform which eventually established the Discalced Carmelites as a separate Order.

See also: History of Cleveland Carmel Timeline

1888

Theresa Martin enters the Carmel of Lisieux. France.

During her years in Carmel, she wrote Story of a Soul.


The Maryland community made a foundation

in Saint Louis, Missouri.

1863

1790

First community of women religious was founded in the new nation.

Daughters of American settlers and an English woman who entered a Carmelite monastery in Belgium sailed to the United States and settled in Maryland, founding the community which continues to this day as the Carmel of Baltimore.


Saint John of the Cross is canonized a saint.

1726

1622

Saint Teresa is canonized a saint.


Saint Teresa began the first Discalced Carmelite Monastery

for the friars with Saint John of the Cross.

1568

1562

Saint Teresa of Avila began the reform of the Carmelite Order

and established the first Discalced Carmelite Monastery for women. She was a prolific writer whose texts still assist people on the spiritual journey.


Nuns became part of the Carmelite Order.

Blessed John Soreth is recognized for his efforts in promoting the growth of the nuns and the Third Order.

1452

1300

Hermits of Carmel migrated to Europe

because of political unrest.


Hermits on Mount Carmel receive the Carmelite Rule from Albert, Patriarch of Jerusalem.

This Rule is still lived out today.

1209