Simon Stock Community: One Vision, Four Expressions
The British Province of Carmelites is developing a new initiative at The Friars, Aylesford in the heart of Kent.
We are creating a space where young people and young adults can experience community, explore faith and grow in confidence and purpose.
Rooted in the Christian tradition and shaped by the Carmelite way of life, we walk alongside one another through listening, service and friendship, providing hospitality and accompaniment.
At the heart of the project is the Simon Stock Community. Within this, a residential community lives on site, sharing daily life, prayer and ministry, and supporting children and young people through retreats and events. A wider network connects through prayer, support, volunteering and shared experiences.
We are creating a space where young people and young adults can search for meaning, grow in faith and discover their purpose.
Rooted in God and our Carmelite tradition, we journey together through prayer, community and service, seeking to live and share the Gospel in fresh and authentic ways.
At the heart of this vision is a young adult community at The Friars, Aylesford, a place of welcome and encounter, inspiring others to recognise their worth, experience transformation and walk with hope in the world.
- Accompany young people and young adults as they seek faith, meaning, and purpose, nurturing a shared journey of growth and transformation.
- Build community rooted in prayer, friendship, and shared life, where each person is seen, valued, and supported.
- Form and empower young adults for service and leadership within the Church and wider society.
- Collaborate in ministry with schools, parishes and universities, offering spaces for reflection, connection, and genuine encounter with Jesus Christ.
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Witness to the Carmelite way, drawing from its contemplative heart to inspire reflection, compassion and hope in today’s world.
We walk in the footsteps of Mary, who carried God’s presence into the world with courage and care; Elijah, who stood for truth and listened for God in the silence; and the witnesses and saints of Carmel, who show us how ordinary lives can burn with extraordinary love.
Our mission is not lived alone. We walk and work alongside Carmelite friars and other members of the Carmelite family, as well as friends and partners who share our vision.
The values guiding our mission keep us grounded, attentive to those we encounter and open to God’s call:
- Community – We commit to creating spaces of belonging, where relationships of trust, friendship and mutual support can grow.
- Love – We place love at the centre of everything we do.
- Hope – We trust in God’s future, even in times of uncertainty.
- Resilience – We remain steady, learning to adapt and move forward, asking for support when needed.
- Authenticity – We dare to be real with ourselves, with others and with God.
- Compassion – We are attentive to the struggles of others, ready to act in support.
- Presence – We keep our hearts open to the ‘more’ of life, always attentive and responsive to God.
- Peace – We seek the peace of Christ in our hearts and lives, carrying it into every situation and working for reconciliation in our world.
- Sustainability – We commit to care for creation, choosing ways of living and acting that respect and protect our common home.
Our Name
Saint Simon Stock, a thirteenth century Carmelite friar born in Kent, was a man of deep faith and vision. He inspires us through his courage and openness to the Spirit. In a time of transition and uncertainty for the Carmelite Order, he had the insight and energy to reimagine Carmel, giving it new expression in the heart of the people. Like him, we seek to help Carmel flourish today through faith, community, and service.
Our Logo: A Symbol of Faith, Growth, and Accompaniment
The central focus is the tree, representing new life and growth. Its strong roots keep us grounded, drawing on the wisdom and strength of those who came before, and reminding us that we are part of the larger Carmelite story and tradition. Some will nest here; others will pause to rest. It is a place that seeks to offer care and support.
The tree also reminds us of our commitment to caring for creation. Our community house sits within the walled garden at The Friars, Aylesford—a daily reminder that we live close to the earth, in tune with creation, and strive to live sustainably. The tree also reflects our commitment to one another as a community: rooted, growing, and flourishing together in a shared journey of faith.
Behind the tree rises Mount Carmel, symbolizing Christ and guiding our spiritual journey. A path winds up from the roots, showing both our personal journey and the support we offer each other, especially to those seeking meaning, purpose, or belonging.
The three stars represent Elijah, Mary, and our Carmelite family, guiding us forward in faith, courage, and hope. This logo invites us to walk together, grow deeply, and be transformed.
Advocates and Supporters
Become part of a growing network of advocates and supporters who share the vision and believe deeply in the value of this ministry.
Through prayer, encouragement, friendship and practical support, you can help create the conditions in which young adults and young people can flourish. Your support enables young adults to grow in faith, confidence and leadership, strengthens ministry with young people, and contributes to a visible and hopeful Christian witness rooted in prayer, hospitality and service.
Retreats and Programmes
We are always delighted to welcome schools, church communities and university groups, especially young people and children, with their teachers , chaplains and leaders. Set within 40 acres of beautiful grounds, The Friars offers a place of encounter through community, prayer, creation, history and art, rooted in the Carmelite tradition. Our emerging day programmes and retreats will create space for reflection, discovery and growth through guided input, creativitiy and shared experience. Supported by the Carmelite friars and delivered by the Simon Stock Young Adult Community, these programmes nurture wellbeing, confidence and spiritual growth in a caring Christian environment.
Volunteer Young Adult Community
The residential community is an immersive opportunity at The Friars for young adults aged 18 to 30. Volunteers are invited to live, pray and serve together, supporting retreats, programmes and events for children and young people. Rooted in the Carmelite tradition, this experience weaves together daily prayer, shared life, formation and service. Volunteers live in a young adult community , receive training and pastoral support, making a generous contribution to the life and mission of The Friars and beyond. The year offers space to grow in faith, deepen confidence and leadership, build lasting friendships, and gain rich experience of ministry and service.
Associate Community
The Associate Community offers a place of welcome and belonging for young adults aged 18 to 35. It is a non-residential pathway inspired by Carmelite spirituality, connecting those who share a desire to grow in faith, community and service within everyday life. Associates gather regularly for prayer, formation and social time, with opportunities to serve, support ministry and connect with the residential community and the wider Carmelite family. This pathway encourages discernment,
deepens prayer and nurtures authentic Christian living, while fostering friendship, shared purpose and a strong sense of belonging.