Hermits of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel

The Hermits of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel is a branch of the religious Carmelite Order of the Ancient Observance, who originated as hermit monks and have been mendicant friars since the 13th century. The male Carmelites of this branch of the Order are not considered monastics as the cloistered Carmelite nuns are. However, Carmelite Hermits are new and separate communities of men and women living an enclosed life, inspired by the ancient Carmelite monastic life, under the authority of the Prior General of Carmelite Order (O.Carm.). The Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the principal patroness of this type of Carmelite communities.

Contents

• Male Communities
• Female Communities
• References