Two words stand out from todays events and the catechises that we have heard, determination and generosity. Having spent the day with our Carmelite family from around the world, these words became very real to us.
After praying together in our own little Carmelite community, we made our way to the suburbs of Lisbon to attend the Carmelite day of celebration. Also determined to make this extra, important journey on top of our already busy pilgrim timetable were Carmelite friars, sisters and young people from around the world. All of us drawn to celebrate what it is to be a Carmelite in the world today. Our Prior General, Míceál O’Neill defined this for us in the context of the WYD theme ‘Mary arose and went with haste’ during his opening reflection. He spoke to us of clear discernment that leads to secure decisions, but not that we discern on our own. It is instead where we speak to others of God’s movement within our own lives so that we can properly discern our own path and commit to it, advancing into the future with haste and determination. As always, the Carmelite within us turns to Mary for an example, knowing that she made the most generous of decisions in following the path that God had prepared for her.
After this short reflection from Fr. Míceál we moved outside into the parish gardens. Here, in smaller groups, we shared our own experiences and thoughts from his talk. After lunch we shared short presentations and videos from our own countries, music and dance from Italy, Spain, the Philippines, El Salvador, Honduras and many more. Whilst the presentations were diverse, it was clear to see Míceál message throughout, and the answer to his question resonated – what am I called to do or be right now? What definite decision can I make that will direct me towards God. After today, I think my answer is simple – to be myself and to recognise the Carmelite that is within me.
Matthew Janvier O.Carm
