September 25-27

Atlanta, Georgia

More than 470 Lay Carmelites from both North American Provinces came to the Atlanta Hilton for the 2015 convocation.

They came from all of the USA and Canada, and the Caribbean, to reflect on the theme of “Carmelite Transformation: A Lifelong Journey” Before the official opening, the provinces hosted a “Leadership Day,” with presentations on the new Community Manual, Phase II formation, record keeping, and other community matters.

The opening address was given by the Prior General of the Carmelite Order,

Father Fernando Millan, who explained that there is no “one way” for all of us;

there are many ways, each way being best suited to the individual person.

He referred to the Rule of Saint Albert, Saint Teresa of Avila,

Saint John of the Cross, and blessed Titus Brandsma in his address.

Other speakers were Fathers John Welch, Leopold Glueckert, and William Harry.

Activities during the Convocation included workshops on Carmelite spirituality,

and the call to holiness, book sales and a social “hour” with refreshments.

At the banquet luncheon, Father John Welch was honored with a skit,

“Is This Your Life?” celebrating the 50th anniversary of his ordination

to the priesthood.

The final feature was a series of short presentations by Lay Carmelites

on the ministry projects in which their communities were engaged.

Father Fernando officiated at the Sunday Mass and Father Bill Harry was the homilist.

We look forward to the next Convocation, which will take place in 2019 at Chicago, IL...