- Modular course designed to complement the Initial Formation of candidates wishing to embark upon a religious life in Carmel.
- Intended to be part of a community Initial Formation Programme
- Students choose from an extensive range of modules
- Part-time and fully online
- Certified by the Carmelite Institute of Britain and Ireland (CIBI)
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This course can also be tailored to meet the requirements of a community or candidate.
Course Overview:
The Initial Formation course provides an introduction to various aspects of Carmelite Spirituality, Tradition and History at a more relaxed pace than our other courses.
It is designed as a part-time course, to complement the Formation programme of the Carmelite community, and enables candidates to read and reflect on individual modules, in a structured yet flexible manner.
Students study as many modules as they require, selected from the suite available in the Discovering Carmel programme.
There are two entry points to the course, one at the start of each semester
- Semester 1: September – December
- Semester 2: January – April
Course Delivery:
The course is delivered in the form of a phased release of reading material, which encourages a reflective approach to study and learning. The content is accessed online, and support is available through the team in CIBI.
Students usually register for one module at a time and it generally takes 12 weeks to complete a module.
Each module comprises 5 units of content to be read and reflected upon. The units are text-based and written by an expert in the field. The content of one unit is equivalent to approximately that delivered in a 45 minute lecture.
Reflective questions are included in each unit that focus on the candidates spiritual development. We recommend keeping a Reflective Journal to record responses to these questions, which is for personal use only and not shared with CIBI.
At the end of the five units there is a simple questionnaire based on the module. Answers are reviewed and comments provided so that the candidate can deepen their understanding, and have the maximum learning and development experience.
Module Details:
There are a wide variety of modules available. It is usual that the choice of modules would be made between the Candidate and the person responsible for their formation. However, it would be wise to include modules from the Traditions section, the History section and the Saints and Spirituality section.
O.Carm tradition:
OCD tradition:
Carmelite History and Tradition:
Significant Carmelites:
Aspects of Carmelite Spirituality:
Certified Course:
The Carmelite Institute of Britain and Ireland (CIBI) certifies all completed modules.
Course Fees:
The current fee is €35 per module.
Please contact us to arrange community participation at [email protected]