Carmelite life is modeled on the lives of Mary and Joseph. The religious observance, therefore, in the Carmelite Order is such as to create an environment in which the soul can expand and open out to God. It provides opportunities for coming into frequent contact with Him. In other words, the whole pattern of Carmelite life is ordered to a single end: to facilitate a life of friendship with Christ.
(Carmelite Ratio)
