A very nice story from the Columbus paper about third orders

(thanks, Kevin)

Like Bowen, Jodelle Lorenz of Dublin, 75, was impressed as a highschool student in Dayton when sisters and priests talked about the religious life.

Ten years ago, after retiring, Lorenz joined the Third Order of Lay Carmelites, which meets monthly at St. Andrew Church in Upper Arlington. The seven active members come from various parishes.

Lorenz, a member of St. Brigid of Kildare parish in Dublin and the mother of seven children, said members participate in prison ministry and parish activities and help the Dublin food pantry. They also are encouraged to attend Mass and pray the rosary daily.

"You benefit from that," she said. "You learn how to meditate, which is a difficult thing to do, and then on to contemplation. So spiritually, it’s very uplifting.

"And you’re an example because other people see you at church, they see you at other functions doing things. It goes with you in your work."

The Carmelites trace their roots to ancient times in the Middle East and take their name from Mount Carmel, where the Prophet Elijah is said to have lived.

Those considering entering the Third Order spend up to a year getting to know the Carmelite way of life. That’s followed by two more years of study before becoming a professed member.