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Seeking a deeper life of prayer in everyday life?
Seeking a deeper life of prayer in everyday life?
Lay Carmelites (TOCarm) are ordinary Catholic men and women called to grow closer to Jesus Christ through prayer, community, and service.
We are one of several Lay Carmelite communities serving the Greater Toronto Area.
WHO WE ARE
WHO WE ARE
We are ordinary people—working, raising families, living in the world—who have heard a quiet invitation from God to live a life of deeper prayer, joyful community, and loving service.
As Lay Carmelites (TOCarm - Third Order Secular Carmelites), we follow Christ in the spirit of the Prophet Elijah and the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Carmel is a centuries-old spiritual tradition that began with hermits on Mount Carmel who sought to live in God’s presence through prayer and simplicity of life. Over time, this way of life has taken root in the Church and continues today among friar priests, friar brothers, contemplative nuns, active sisters, and lay people.
It is a path to holiness that has been lived by many saints and blesseds, including St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and St. Titus Brandsma.
Today, Lay Carmelites continue this tradition—seeking God in prayer, living in community, and serving with love in everyday life.
ROOTED IN CARMEL
ROOTED IN CARMEL
St Elijah the Prophet
St Elijah the Prophet
“The Lord lives, in whose presence I stand.” (1 Kings 17.1)
The Prophet Elijah is our spiritual father. He teaches us to live in God’s presence, to listen in silence, and to remain faithful with courage and trust.
Blessed Virgin Mary
Blessed Virgin Mary
“Let it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1.38)
Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, is our model. She shows us how to receive God’s word with openness, and to carry Christ into the world with love.
Together, Elijah and Mary guide us in the Carmelite way: to stand before God in prayer and to live His love in our daily lives.
THE CARMELITE WAY
THE CARMELITE WAY
Prayer
Prayer
A deep, personal relationship with God, rooted in silence, listening, and loving attention.
Community
Community
A welcoming community where we support one another in faith, and walk the journey together.
Service
Service
Living the Gospel in everyday life—bringing Christ’s love to our families, parishes, and communities.
IS THIS FOR YOU?
IS THIS FOR YOU?
You might feel drawn to Carmel if:
You desire a deeper life of prayer
You feel called to something more in your spiritual life
You are drawn to silence, reflection, and God’s presence
You are seeking authentic Catholic community
You don’t need to have everything figured out—only a willingness to listen and respond.
YOUR FIRST STEP
YOUR FIRST STEP
The first step is connecting with us.
We begin with a simple conversation so we can get to know you, answer your questions, and help you discern whether this path is a good fit.
COMMUNITY AND LOCATION
COMMUNITY AND LOCATION
We are the Lay Carmelite community serving Toronto, Markham, Scarborough, North York, and surrounding areas. Our Lay Carmelite community meets monthly in Thornhill, Ontario.
Monthly Meeting:
1st Saturday of the month
8:30 AM Parish Mass
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM Meeting
Where:
St. Luke’s Church
39 Green Lane, Thornhill, ON
Meetings are by invitation, and after initial conversation.
ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
Part of a Larger Family
Part of a Larger Family
Our local community is part of a wider Carmelite family:
Region (CENY):
We belong to the Canada East–New York Region, made up of several Lay Carmelite communities, many located in the Greater Toronto Area.
Province (PCM):
We are part of the Province of the Most Pure Heart of Mary, which includes communities across Canada and the United States.
Worldwide:
Lay Carmelites are present around the world, united in the same vocation and spiritual tradition.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Whether you are simply curious or feel a deeper call, we invite you to reach out.
We are one of several Lay Carmelite communities serving the Greater Toronto Area.
If you are searching for Lay Carmelites near you, or Carmelite spirituality, we welcome you to connect with us.
Prayer. Community. Service. Carmel.
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