Reforming the Carmelite Sisters

“During the retreat, Reform led the sisters in how to implement Reform’s nine wellness pillars. We prayed, helped the sisters to reflect on the current state of their health, and guided them in identifying the areas in their lives most in need of reform. In some very joyful moments, we danced and sang, and shared health meals together. “

Recently, Reform Wellness led the Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart in their renewal retreat in Los Angeles, CA. It was a special opportunity to help to heal and strengthen the Body of Christ, particularly the women who are His brides. 

It was a unique moment for the community, as their 115 sisters—age 21-95—were all gathered together. 

Mother Gloria Therese, Superior General, shared that no matter their age, all of the sisters had “an openness to receive again a message that would help them to become more alive in Christ.” 

During the retreat, Reform led the sisters in how to implement Reform’s nine wellness pillars. We prayed, helped the sisters to reflect on the current state of their health, and guided them in identifying the areas in their lives most in need of reform. In some very joyful moments, we danced and sang, and shared health meals together. 

In reflecting on St. Teresa of Avila’s masterpiece The Interior Castle, Mother shared that when we break through the things that are closing us in and restricting us, we become like butterflies who have stretched beyond their cocoon and can say, “My life is all Christ. This is what happens with Reform—my life is all Christ.”

Some of the Carmelite Sisters also shared feedback about their experience with Reform:

“This Reform Wellness retreat reinforced my call to be totally His.”

“All of the retreat was beneficial for me, but the greatest was Jackie and Dr. Bridget, living the walk, and sharing their experiences, the handouts and all of the visuals were beautiful and so helpful!”

“This was a wonderful and inspiring experience. God reward Reform Wellness for the time and preparation you all put into your presentations. Thank you also for allowing the sisters to ask questions and share, and providing the time (without hurrying us), to share with the community.”

“Thank you for pouring yourselves out for the Lord and for us! Your witness was powerful! Your ministry is so needed.”

“Having battled autoimmune issues for 12 years and receiving yet another similar diagnosis this summer, I have been struggling against hopelessness. Reform Wellness gave me the boost I needed to continue to pursue wholeness in Christ.” 

“Everything was presented in a very beautiful and well-integrated way! It was deeply inspiring and filled my own heart and soul with great hope and encouragement.”

“Thank you for a wonderful retreat! It was so helpful to hear laywomen talk about wellness in a way that is totally Christ-centered! Truly, it inspired me to live my vocation to consecrated life more fully by being more aware of all aspects of life, from nutrition to use of technology! All very helpful and insightful!”

“It was very evident to me that the Holy Spirit was at work.”

“I like that its not a 'program' per say but a way of life and it speaks very much to our life and spirit of Carmel a way of reformation and entering deeper into the fullness of life of the person with God, body and soul...we begin in Carmel on earth what we will be forever in eternity!”

“It was refreshing to discover the many other positives of sunlight, play, sleep, drinking water, proper nutrition in order to come closer to Christ.”

“I deeply appreciated the retreat and feel it will help me grow and heal in my whole person. I am excited to see how the Lord will use this for my formation.”