" The present reality of the Order that reflects the present reality of the universal Church makes it very clear to see: it is not time to remain isolated; it is not time to walk alone. It is time to walk! To walk together! And it doesn't mean only giving a hand in emergency situations. It means indeed walking together sharing all experiences....it is necessary to form a mentality of walking together, sharing the joys and the sorrows of such a journey, thinking with the categories of a family, overcoming all forms of individualism and closure."

These are thoughts Fr. Rafal expressed in his inspiring and challenging presentation today which we had the privilege of hearing today.

The conferences given by the  Generalate Friars has provided us with rich food for the journey. We look forward to sharing them with you soon and continuing the dialogue in our communities begun here in St. Louis. 

After the Eucharist today, we gathered for a group photo
of 172 Carmelites. 

Mother Therese (Coordinator, St. Joseph Assoc.)
introduced our brother, Fr. Rafal today.

The dining room was prepared for our final dinner
this evening The photos that follow capture some of the
joy we shared as a family gathered around one table.

St. Joseph Association gathered for an impromptu meeting
in the lobby of the hotel. 

After an ice cream social and thank you's to all who made this meeting such a success: the Generalate, the sisters who attended in person and prayed for us at home, Mother Marya and the St. Louis Carmel, our liturgists, Provincials and delegates, Stephanie Hauge who worked with the facilitators and moderated the Q&A sessions, the hotel staff, the planning committee and last but not least: Cherry Caparas, OCDS - who put her skills in the service of all for love for the Order ...

THANK YOU ALL!!!

Please join us at the close of this meeting in thanking God and Our Lady of Mount Carmel 

as we share the singing of the Regina Coeli. 

"May they all be one." 

Amen!

Alleluia!!