Mary, Queen of Carmel Community
of the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order
Towson, Maryland
Who We Are
We are ordinary, adult Catholic men and women of all ages, married and single, working and retired, who live fully in the world while embracing a deeper call to prayer.As Secular Carmelites, we are drawn to the spirituality and teachings of the Carmelite saints, especially St. Teresa of Ávila, St. John of the Cross, and St. Thérèse of Lisieux.If you feel so called, please contact us. We welcome new members.
St. Teresa of Avila
Our History
The Mary Queen of Carmel OCDS Community was founded in 1993 with the blessing of the Carmelite Order and the Archdiocese of Baltimore.The community held its first meeting on January 16, 1994, at the Carmelite Monastery in Towson, Maryland.The community received Canonical Establishment on October 4, 2019, officially recognizing it as part of the worldwide Carmelite family.
St. John of the Cross
Our Spirituality
We seek to live out the Teresian charism by:
Praying for our community, our priests, and our world
Morning, Evening Prayer, and, when possible, Night Prayer
Mass (Daily, Sunday, and Holy Days of Obligation)
Meditation (Prayer of Recollection, Lectio Divina, etc.)
The Carmelite Rosary
Monthly Community Meetings
Formation
Annual Retreats
St. Thérèse of Lisieux
Membership Requirements
Be at least 18 years old
Present a Baptismal Certificate
If married, have proof that the marriage is recognized in the Catholic Church
Must be an active member of the Catholic Church for at least 18 months before applying to the Secular Order.
May not be a member of another religious group that makes promises or vows.
Attend monthly meetings (currently the 3rd Sunday of the month)
St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
Formation
Throughout all phases of formation, a person should pray and discern whether a commitment to the Secular Order is right for them and their way of life.
Visitation – This visitation period can be for as long as a person needs, but not less than 3 months.
Aspirancy – classes that cover 12 sessions (at least once a month)
Preparation for Temporary Promises – classes that cover 24 sessions
Preparation for Definitive Promises – classes that cover 36 sessions
Contact Us
Do you feel called to a deeper interior life while remaining in your secular vocation? We invite you to explore this path with us. If you live within driving distance of Towson, MD, please contact us to schedule a visit.