The delicate lacework of the arches spanning the ceiling, the gold arches glistening across the blue backdrop of the sky, remind the monk of the closeness the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Queen and Beauty of Carmel. This little chapel, nestled in the midst of hermitages, calls to mind the ancient traditions of Mount Carmel, where Our Lady dwelt in the midst of her brothers.
It is fitting that the Chapter House especially should reflect this, for as the seat of governance of the monastery, it reinforces that Carmel, unlike other orders, has never had an abbot or abbess. The Blessed Virgin herself is the true Abbess of Carmel. It is in this same Chapter House that the monk will profess his vows to God and to the Blessed Virgin. It is here that young men seeking this life wholly dedicated to the salvation of souls will be clothed in the Holy Habit of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Everything revolves around our Blessed Mother, who always leads us by the swiftest and shortest path to Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Chapter House Progress
Progress has not been wanting on the construction work. Since our last update regarding the Chapter House much has been accomplished. A skilled team of local painters meticulously finished the windows and the ribbed arches spanning the ceiling. Afterwards they carefully applied the gold stars which now glisten above one’s head, raising the heart and mind upwards to contemplate divine things. Work now continues on the marble flooring below which will be completed in the next few weeks. Photos to follow!
