The Carmelite Directory of the Spiritual Life

Despite the name Carmelite in the title, this book is an excellent read for all Catholics, even those not drawn to a particular Order.

This is a large book (from my point of view) with small print that covers the religious life in general and the Carmelite religious life in particular. It was produced in 1940 by the O.Carm community and is somewhat dated but I was glad to have my copy (I'm OCDS). It isn't the type of book I would necessarily use for bedtime reading but I find it useful to take it in small "bites" and to use it as a reference work. It has very good explanations and admonitions of the spiritual life as practiced interiorly and even external behaviors. Its theological principles can be a problem for a reader not schooled in theology but those parts can be put to the side or found with simpler explanations on many Carmelite websites. It might have been used in the past as a seminary textbook and does have that textbook flavor.

Informative

The book came in great shape and even though it was used, it looked new. The price was also great.

I am not finished getting through this, but so far this book is exactly what I had hoped it would be. It is easy to digest and understand the Carmelite Way. This was written for those in the order, but their spiritual ways could benefit anyone. As a very new aspirant to the secular third order of Carmelites, this book in invaluable and a real treasure.

Comprehensive and systematic treatment of the training schedule for Carmelite novices prior to the Second Vatican Council. It is a good compendium of basic Catholic theology and spirituality and summary of the teachings of great Carmelite saints (both O.Carm and OCD).

If you are a Carmelite this is a much needed manual for both sides of the family of Carmel. Written for the members of the Order of Carmel no reaseon it can not be use the ODC.

It was received promptly and in excellent condition. Thank you Marilyn Howard

A must read for anyone with connections to the Carmelite Order, or for those who have an interest in Carmelite Spirituality. For those who haven't come across the Carmelite Order yet, most will find it an inspirational read. Highly recommend!

For those wanting a guide on progressing in the spiritual life I highly recommend this book.