The Carmelite Family Encounter gathered more than 200 participants at the Carmelite school of El Melón. The day started with the prayer of Lauds and the exposition of the Most Blessed Sacrament, followed by the words of welcome of the general coordinator, who highlighted the history of Chilean Carmel and the spirit that unites the country’s communities.
The first formative moment was led by Sister Adriana Montenegro, CMT, who reflected profoundly on the pillars of Carmel, which led to group work and plenary expositions. After lunch in community the attendees participated in a moment of prayer inspired by St. Teresa of Los Andes and listened to testimonies on the Carmelite life.
The scholar Myriam Dúchenos led the second formative moment, focused on the presence of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Chile. The afternoon continued with religious dance, expression of popular piety and Marian devotion.
The Encounter concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist presided by Monsignor Mario Salas Becerra, stressing Carmel’s mission as a sign of hope. The day reaffirmed the communion, spiritual identity and pastoral commitment of the Chilean Carmel under the theme “Pilgrims of hope with Carmel”.
