" As the Father has sent me, I also send you" (John 20:21)

Mission is something that grips a person rather than what anyone may do or wish to do. It is a participation in the zeal of Christ of whom it was written, "Zeal for Thy house will consume me". (John 2:17). Mission, then is not something we have chosen but it is a greatness that has been thrust upon us.

"You did not choose Me, no, I chose you and I commissioned you to go out and bear fruit, fruit that will last." (John 15:16)

Having experienced God as our All, we participate in the life-giving mission of Christ in the Church and the world, with --- burning zeal and creative fidelity to our Charism. To be a Carmelite is to be apostolic as were Elijah, Teresa of Avila, Thérèse of Lisieux and a host of others from earliest times to this very century and in a special way we imbibe a new thrust and vision, from our foundress, Mother Veronica who said,

"As for myself I was not afraid of anything . I was ardent and full of zeal to begin my work among the people whom St. Francis Xavier had evangelized." (The Seed Time)

Moved from within by the power of the Spirit, we read the signs of times and commit ourselves joyfully to bring about a New Heaven and New Earth involving the transformation of society where justice, peace and love prevail.

We re-orient our life and Ministries through constant discernment so as to be alive and relevant to the changing needs of the society and the world at large. We see out Educational and Health Ministries as great opportunities to

• -- identify with our people and their cultural heritage
• -- empower the poor, oppressed and marginalized
• -- build up the faith commitment of the youth and families.
• -- uplift women and the girl-child to exercise their rights with dignity and power
• -- ensure a right and responsible use of land and natural resources

We look to Mary, Queen of Carmel, who is our guiding light and pray for new missionary forces in a larger number of vocations knowing that our reward is - "God Alone Suffices".

References:

• General Chapter 2002 draft text
• Commentary on the Apostolic Carmel Constitutions.