As some of you may recall, I posted something on the "Lay Carmelites" and promised to update this info when I could with fully accurate information . I stated this because "Carmelites" is a recurring search term. My friend told me this evening that the proper terminology for the "Lay Carmelites" is the abbreviation, OCDS, which stands for Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites. The Washington Province of the OCDS is located here . As you can see: The members of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites are faithful members of the Church, called to live "in allegiance to Jesus Christ" through "friendship with the One we know loves us" and in service to the Church. Under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, in the biblical tradition of the prophet Elijah and inspired by the teachings of St Teresa of Jesus and St John of the Cross, they seek to deepen their Christian commitment received in baptism. The OCDS Communities i