This Question-and-Answer Series was begun in the attempt to clarify questions and/or concerns that came up during the 2019 Lay Carmelite Convocation in Chicago, IL.
Cindy A. Perazzo, T.O.Carm., Coordinator of Lay Carmelites
for the Province of the Most Pure Heart of Mary
In the past we were told not to invite persons who are not in formation to a Day of Reflection or Retreat. The reason being that since they do not have an understanding of our Carmelite charism that their questions or comments would be disruptive.
Actually, I believe in general it is a good idea to expose potential inquirers to a Day of Reflection or Retreat. Of course, as at a regular monthly meeting where you would not allow a visitor who is discerning whether or not to apply for entrance into the Phase I program or even someone in PI or PII formation monopolize the conversation in ongoing formation or attempt to take over the meeting, you would likewise not allow this to happen at another type of Lay Carmelite Event. Perhaps you could assign a professed member to accompany this person for the day in the effort to explain anything that needed clarification and to get feedback from her/him about their experience.
Is it ok to have a former director on council without being elected to council?
As long as the former Director was appointed to some specific duty (i.e., Secretary/Treasurer/Formation Director) and she has not already been on the council 12 years or more it would be acceptable.
