Our Work

The British Province of Carmelites is active in building the Kingdom of God and sharing the gifts of Carmel. We do not work in isolation; we collaborate with the wider Carmelite family and the communities we journey with and serve. Living in the midst of the people, we seek to understand, respond to the challenges, celebrate the joys, foster community and friendship.  

Our Work icon

We currently serve in the shrines at The Friars, Aylesford and Saint Jude, Faversham, running parishes; working in chaplaincy in prisons and schools; supporting young people and young adult ministry. We also support Carmelite communities and projects in other parts of the world.  

Our current areas of growth and development:

  • Accompanying young people and young adults 
  • Exploring new ways of being community and sharing our Charism
  • Working for justice, peace, and care for creation in response to current needs 
The Shrine of St. Jude
The Carmelite friar, Fr. Elias Lynch, founded the Shrine for two reasons: first, because he was responding to the needs of the post-war generation who were looking for hope, but also because the Carmelite charism is so deeply rooted in the Word of God. It is therefore fitting that there is a place dedicated to Saint Jude - the Apostle of Hope, but also because he is someone who heard the Word of God first hand as a close friend of Jesus. The Shrine is a place of prayer, peace, and hope.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Faversham
Our friendly and welcoming parish serves, supports, and witnesses to the Good News in the local community. Everyone has a place in our mission, and we welcome all who seek to grow in their relationship with God and one another. 
Aylesford
‘The Friars’ is a place of pilgrimage, home to a resident community of friars, a sanctuary for quiet reflection and a beautiful environment for a relaxing visit, picnic or walk. The priory offers events, conference and retreat spaces and residential accommodation.
Vocations
Christians believe that God calls all people to a life of holiness.  That is, a life in relationship with God and with others. This 'vocation' or calling can take different forms (religious life, priesthood, marriage, and single life). God wants the best for each of us and calls us all to a life of love and significance.
Young Adults & Youth Ministry
As a province, we have always supported and promoted work with young people and young adults. In 2021 we developed a new project to offer greater support for young people and further collaboration with young adults.
Social Justice
From the early community on Mount Carmel, Carmelites have been in tune with and respectful of the natural environment and seeking to live in peace with others. Elijah ‘Spoke truth to power’ challenging the abuses at the time and defending the rights of the people. This has shaped who we are today.   
The Carmelite Institute of Britain and Ireland (CIBI)
CIBI is a collaboration of the British and Irish Provinces of Carmelites and the Anglo-Irish Province of Discalced Carmelites. It provides formation and training offering online courses for all; it is a way of celebrating and sharing the rich heritage of our Carmelite tradition.
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Media Group, c/o Provincial Office, Aylesford, Kent, ME20 7BX
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