The Lay Carmelite Convocation took place from June 27–29, 2025, at The Catholic University of America (CUA) in Washington, D.C.

Liturgical celebrations included morning and evening prayer, Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on Friday afternoon and Sunday morning, and Mass on Saturday celebrated on the CUA campus.

It was a wonderful event, both informative and a meaningful opportunity to connect with our sisters and brothers in Carmel from the two North American provinces. Several Lay Carmelites shared heartfelt testimonials about their journey to Carmel and what their Carmelite vocation means to them. A short preview of some of the comments is shown in the video above and the other testimonials will soon be available here on the website and on our social media platforms!

The Convocation theme, “The Carmelite Family: A Timeless Tapestry,” was explored during the general sessions by Carmelite Prior General Fr. Míceál O’Neill, O.Carm., Fr. Mario Esposito, O.Carm., Fr. Craig Morrison, O.Carm., and a closing panel composed of both Carmelite friars and Lay Carmelites. Saturday afternoon workshops, led by Lay Carmelites from both provinces, featured sessions on icons, the meaning of community, and a pilot program aimed at sharing Carmelite spirituality with parish youth.

The youth program, JUCAR, was presented by Ana Hernandez, T.O.Carm., who was joined by several youth participants. Each spoke about their experience and shared testimonial videos reflecting their personal journey with the program. One of these videos is included below and others will soon be featured in Carmelite Review and on our social media.

To ensure you are notified of the posting of additional Lay Carmelite & JUCAR testimonials, use the form below the video to subscribe to Carmelite Review and follow us on social media!