The Discalced Carmelites of the Australia-Oceania region have launched a new initiative aimed at sharing their charism of prayer, silence, and community – a silent online book club.
The Carmelite Spirit Online Silent Book Club is a weekly opportunity for people to gather online with other spiritual seekers from across the globe.
Unlike most other online meetings and book clubs, the weekly gathering is mostly spent in sacred silence.
Participants read a book of their own choosing, enjoying the silent space and encouragement that the presence of the other participants gives them.
After the time of silent reading, there is an opportunity to exchange any insights that have arisen from the time of reading.
Regional Vicar of the Discalced Carmelites Fr Bernard Hancock said he is “delighted by this new and unique initiative”.
“There is such a need for silence and spiritual friendship in our world, and the Carmelite Spirit Online Silent Book Club provides the space for these precious gifts,” Fr Hancock said.
Participant Julie Redican described the book club as her “favourite hour of the week”.
“It bookmarks an hour of sacred silence with inspiring spiritual companions, both within the pages of books and online, creating a sanctuary amid the demands of work, parenting teens, and caring for my elderly mum,” Ms Redican said.
“The book club reminds me of the ‘why’, making hard things possible.”
The Carmelite Spirit Online Silent Book Club meets on Saturday mornings. It is free and requires no ongoing commitment.
Details and registrations: www.carmelite.com/retreats
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Carmelites Offer Book Club with a Difference (Discalced Carmelites)
