(to whom the Carmelite Rule was addressed) by Father Leopold Gluckert, O. Carm. How does one write a biography of someone whose known data consists of no more than his initial? The “Brother B†to whom the Carmelite Rule is directed remains shrouded in the mystery of the ages, even though some fanciful stories developed [...]
by Father Leopold Gluckert, O.Carm. In the context of the Middle Ages, Andrew Corsini stands out as one who was ahead of his time as a church reformer and a saintly example of what a leader should. In the calamitous 14th century, bishops tended to comport themselves like feudal nobility, commanding armies and administering their dioceses like [...]
by Father Leopold Gluckert, O.Carm. In a world known for its callous disregard for the poor and downtrodden, the example of Angelo Paoli is a refreshing breath of air. Angelo cared so well for his unfortunate brothers and sisters that he was known as “Father Charity†or “Father of the Poor.â€Â Fortunately, he did more [...]
by Leopold Gluckert, O.Carm. All things considered, it’s hard to imagine how the Mantuan Reform of Carmel could have produced a finer example of excellence than Battista Spagnoli. During the difficult days before the Protestant Reformation, most religious orders had fallen into a spirit of lethargy and laxity, and in some cases, into frightful abuses. [...]
Many Carmelite saints have come from colorful backgrounds, but very few from the highest ranks of the nobility. Frances d’Amboise is one of the exceptions. Frances was born in 1427, daughter of Louis d’Amboise, Prince of Talmont, and his wife Louise-Marie de Rieux. She grew up as a lively, attractive girl, but could not escape [...]
[pdf version] by Leopold Gluckert, O.Carm. John Soreth is a Prior General who dramatically changed Carmelite life for the better. Some even credit his reforms for enabling the Carmelite Order to survive the spiritual earthquake of the Reformation. John was born near Caen in Normandy in 1394. He entered the Carmelites in that city, and [...]
by Leopold Gluckert, O. Carm In a world like our own, where factionalism and deep religious and political divisions poison our relationships, a saint like Peter Thomas is like a breath of fresh air. His life as a devout Carmelite and a diplomatic healer and trouble-shooter reminds us that reconciliation and common ground are always [...]
