"Carmel Teaches the Church how to Pray." - Pope Francis

Youth Voices of Carmel @ CCHS

Group of high-school students seated in a church chapel, listening to two friars, with a blue banner reading 'What brings you joy?' and a Carmel crest logo on the left.

This collaborative project seeks to flip the script. Rather than presenting a scripted message to young people, Religious and Lay Carmelites are invited to listen first, allowing youth to lead the conversation through their own questions, experiences, and perspectives. Together, these conversations open a dialogue centered on what it means to live Carmel in the 21st century through the eyes and voices of today’s youth.

JUCAR Testimonials

Testimonials from members of the Joliet Our Lady of Mount Carmel JUCAR program.

As they grow in Carmel, Carmel grows in them.

I recently had the privilege of spending time with a vibrant group of young adults from the JUCAR (Juventud Carmelita) youth group at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Joliet, Illinois. Right away, I was struck by their joy—real, tangible joy—and their deep love for Carmel. It wasn’t just something they talked about; it radiated from who they were.