The Ecclesial Carmelite Movement (‘MEC’) was founded by Father Antonio Maria Sicari O.C.D., in 1993 in Brescia, Italy. It came about when a group of lay people approached Carmelite Friars and expressed the desire to share the richness of the ancient Carmelite charism in a renewed way for people of all states of life.
A fundamental aim of the Movement is to promote the dignity of our common Baptism and the universal call to holiness by experiencing the gift of community and the commitment of mission in the ways of the ancient Carmelite charism, following the teachings of the Church’s great Saints and Doctors: Saint Teresa of Avila, Saint John of the Cross and Saint Teresa of Lisieux.
The Movement strives to foster a deeper understanding of the Carmelite charism. This directs the person to develop the highest possible interior intimacy – that is the mystical experience of the intimacy with God deep within our soul. In particular, the Movement gives lay faithful the opportunity of experiencing the ancient Carmelite charism in whatever state of life they find themselves – including single, married, families, children, and even consecrated religious (priests and nuns).
At this time the Ecclesial Carmelite Movement is present in Italy, Lebanon, Romania, Belgium, Latvia, and the USA (Lincoln, Nebraska).
In Lincoln, our Community meets on Thursdays for a School of Christianity (study of writings from our founder), saint studies, and social or community activities. We are comprised of single people as well as families. We sponsor an annual “Carmel Walk” in the fall and host other MEC members from Italy. Members are invited to participate in the International Spiritual Exercises held every several years in Italy. If you are looking for community with a Carmelite spiritual learning dimension, the Ecclesial Carmelite Movement may be for you.
For further information and for meeting location and times, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
