The Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS)

The Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites, officially Ordo Carmelitarum Discalceatorum Saecularis, and formerly known as the Third Order Carmelites, is an association in the Roman Catholic Church with lay persons as its primary members but can also accept members of the secular clergy. OCDS exists to give lay contemplatives to Christ and His Church. The Secular Carmelite Order follows a specific tradition of spirituality within the Church from the doctrine of St. Teresa of Jesus and St. John of the Cross, our Carmelite parents. If you are being called to a deeper life of prayer, you are welcome to join the OCDS Community of the Holy Family (Akron- Canton). For more information, visit our WEBSITE.