Inside the Cloistered Life: Personal Letters of a Carmelite Nun

by Sr Marie Of the Trinity

“Sister Marie describes in detail the life of a Carmelite Nun and shows us by what means and in what manner rich spiritual treasure is being gathered for the benefit of all of us.”
— Thomas L. Noa, Bishop of Marquette, in the original foreword

This gem of a book is essential reading for anyone interested in knowing the hidden details of life in Carmel — “the powerhouse of prayer.” Sr. Marie, a young novice, addressed this revealing series of letters to her parents and family about her life in the Carmelite convent. Her letters provide a treasure trove of timeless information about the lives of these spiritual warriors from the moment they rise early in the morning to their praise of God at the end of each rich, joy-filled day working for His glory and souls.

In her letters, Sr. Marie answers all of her family’s questions in an endearing, conversational way and explains all aspects of her new life as a Carmelite nun. Her profound reflections and the down-to-earth, often humorous stories she tells will enable you to taste the Carmelites’ life-giving vocation and discover how you can imitate their devotion in your own daily life. As you journey on this “retreat,” you will also learn

• Adventures in the lives of the Sisters
• Fascinating customs that will enrich your Faith
• Awe-inspiring celebrations for Christmas, Easter, and every season
• The history behind devotion to the Child Jesus, the Scapular, and the Carmelite Order
• Sacred traditions, prayers, and maxims to live by
• Types of sacrifices Carmelites offer for souls in the world

A diocesan priest described the Sisters as “priests’ silent partners in saving souls — silent partners in the eyes of the world but atomic blasts at the foot of God’s throne.” Through their secret sacrifices and love, you will see how the Sisters of Carmel aid in the redemption of the world. Above all, you will be motivated to more intentionally pray and work for souls in the hidden, ordinary tasks of your own life.

200 pages, Paperback

Published June 18, 2024

Reviews

[Rebekah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a cross between nonfiction and fiction. Sr. Marie of the Trinity is fictional, but the true author, Sr. Claire Marie of the Immaculate Heart, was a true Discalced Carmelite who actually lived at the Iron Mountain, Michigan, monastery her fictional Sr. Marie went to. Her letters function as an explanation of what life was like in this monastery in the 1950s, and there were frequent footnotes to explain that things have changed and modernized since then. However, there was no real plot; the focus is really on explaining what life was like for a nun at that place, at that time. In some ways, this was very valuable; in others, it made for a boring read.

I will say that this book was almost impossible to get--I had to get a friend who works at a major university to special order it for me through their library system. It would likely be easier to purchase this volume, but I am glad I didn't; it isn't something I would want to reread.

[Rosemarie Ludwig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grateful

I am member of the Discalced Carmelite Secular/ I have a great love for Carmel. This book reminded me why I love Carmel and all the Carmelite Saints.