Carmel is known above all for her priceless heritage of spirituality. For centuries, in the spirit of Elijah and the ancient prophets, Carmelites have sought to encounter the living God and to teach others the ways of prayer. In 16th century Spain, St. Theresa of Avila brought renewed vitality to this religious family by inaugurating a reform movement that became known as the discalced Carmelites, a new and fruitful branch on an ancient vine. 

First published in 1959, this book provides a concise and inspiring overview of Carmel's spiritual heritage from a Teresian perspective. Renowned Discalced Carmelite author Paul-Marie of the Cross identifies the principal texts, themes, figures, and teaching of Carmel: Elijah and Mary, the Rule of St. Albert and the Book of the Institution of the First Monks, the Carmelite understanding of Contemplation and the degrees of prayer, the message of St. Theresa, John of the Cross, and Therese of Lisieux. This classic essay, long out of print, is here updated and reprinted for a new generation of seekers longing to slake their spiritual thirst at the font of Carmel. 

Paperback, 96 pages.