In 1226 Pope Honorius III issued Ut vivendi normam, recognizing for the first time the community of Carmelite hermits living on Mount Carmel and affirming their way of life based on the “Formula of Life” given by St Albert of Jerusalem. This document encouraged the hermits to remain faithful to a life centered on prayer, meditation on the Word of God, penance, obedience, simplicity, and service. The letter was an important first step in the development of the Carmelite Order, which later received its formal Rule from Pope Innocent IV in 1247 and gradually became part of the mendicant tradition.

Eight centuries later, the anniversary invites the Carmelite Family to renew its vocation rather than simply remember its history. The letter calls Carmelites today to live in allegiance to Jesus Christ through prayer, fraternity, service, simplicity, and openness to the needs of the world. In a time marked by conflict, poverty, environmental challenges, and rapid technological change, the Carmelite charism offers a witness of contemplation, peace, reconciliation, and responsible human dignity. Guided by Mary, the example of Elijah, and the saints of Carmel, the celebration is an invitation to renew commitment to the Rule and to build the future through faithful and joyful Christian witness.

  pdf Download & print the letter here.

Other resources

pdf Prior Generals Letter for 800 anniversary of Rule [PDF]                  
Five Moments of Prayer & Reflection on Carmelite Rule [PDF]