How to Become a Carmelite Nun

Carmelite nuns live in monasteries around the world.

Carmelite spirituality is a sector of the Roman Catholic church with monasteries all over the world. Here priests and nuns live in environments of service towards God and others in the community. Carmelite nuns follows strict rules such as occasional fasting, vows of silence and regular praying throughout the day. Those called to this vocation have a strong belief that God wishes them to follow the path to becoming a nun.

Instructions

1. Become a practicing Roman Catholic if you are not already one. Speak with the local Catholic Church about this process, as it is a necessary step towards becoming a Carmelite nun.

2. Speak with your local church priest, college chaplain or the prioress of a Carmelite nun community. Tell them your reasons for wishing to become a nun and they will be able to advise and counsel you on whether this is a plan that will work for you.

3. Write a letter of inquiry to the Carmelite community that you wish to join. They will help you set up a meeting and a visit. You must be female, not married and have no dependent children to be considered.

4. Attend your meeting and visit at the community or monastery. Explain your reasons for wanting to become a Carmelite nun and spend a few days learning about the dedication and practice of the nuns. At the end of your time, you will hopefully be invited back for a longer future stay. This is only if the nuns deem you serious and a good candidate.

5. Stay at the monastery for an extended period of time and follow the practices of the nuns. After a certain amount of time and the advice of the prioress, ask to become accepted as a postulant, or beginning nun. After this time you and the prioress will determine if you are a good fit and whether you can stay indefinitely.

6. Make your profession to becoming a Carmelite nun after a period of study that is determined by the prioress. Attend all ceremonies.

References

• Carmelite Monastery in Wolverton: Page 6
• The Carmelite Monastery of the Holy Spirit and Our Lady of Peace, Dolgallau, Wales