Carmelite vs. Cistercian

Attribute	Carmelite	Cistercian
Founding Order	Carmelite Order	Cistercian Order
Founder	St. Berthold	St. Robert of Molesme
Year Founded	12th century	11th century
Monastic Focus	Contemplative prayer	Manual labor
Monastic Habit	Brown scapular	White habit

History

The Carmelite Order, also known as the Order of the Brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, was founded in the 12th century on Mount Carmel in the Holy Land. The order was established by a group of hermits who dedicated themselves to a life of prayer and contemplation. The Cistercian Order, on the other hand, was founded in the 11th century in France by a group of monks led by Saint Robert of Molesme. The Cistercians sought to return to a more strict observance of the Rule of Saint Benedict.

Lifestyle

Carmelites are known for their emphasis on prayer, contemplation, and community life. They follow the Rule of Saint Albert, which outlines a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Carmelites also have a strong devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Cistercians, on the other hand, follow the Rule of Saint Benedict, which emphasizes manual labor, prayer, and simplicity. They are known for their commitment to a life of austerity and self-sufficiency, often living in remote monasteries.

Spirituality

Carmelites are known for their spirituality of prayer and contemplation. They seek to deepen their relationship with God through silence, solitude, and meditation. Carmelite spirituality is often described as mystical and focused on the interior life. Cistercians, on the other hand, emphasize a spirituality of work and simplicity. They believe that manual labor is a form of prayer and seek to find God in the everyday tasks of life.

Monasticism

Carmelites live in monasteries or friaries, where they come together for communal prayer, meals, and recreation. They also spend time in solitude and silence, reflecting on their relationship with God. Cistercians, on the other hand, live in monasteries that are often located in rural areas, away from the distractions of the world. They follow a strict schedule of prayer, work, and study, with an emphasis on self-sufficiency.

Architecture

Carmelite monasteries are often characterized by their simplicity and focus on prayer. They may have chapels or shrines dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, as well as gardens or outdoor spaces for contemplation. Cistercian monasteries, on the other hand, are known for their austere and utilitarian architecture. They typically have large, open spaces for work and prayer, with minimal decoration or ornamentation.

Community Life

Carmelites place a strong emphasis on community life, coming together for prayer, meals, and recreation. They also support each other in their spiritual journey, offering guidance and encouragement. Cistercians, on the other hand, value solitude and silence, often spending long periods of time in individual prayer and reflection. They come together for communal prayer and work, but also value time alone with God.

Devotion

Carmelites have a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, often referring to her as their spiritual mother. They seek her intercession and guidance in their spiritual life, believing that she leads them closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. Cistercians, on the other hand, have a strong devotion to the Eucharist and the liturgy. They believe that the Mass is the source and summit of their spiritual life, drawing them into deeper communion with God.

Conclusion

While both the Carmelite and Cistercian Orders share a commitment to a life of prayer, contemplation, and simplicity, they differ in their emphasis on spirituality, monasticism, architecture, community life, and devotion. Carmelites focus on prayer and contemplation, with a strong devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, while Cistercians emphasize work and simplicity, with a devotion to the Eucharist and the liturgy. Both orders offer unique paths to holiness and spiritual growth, inviting individuals to deepen their relationship with God in different ways.