Exploring the inculturation of the Carmelite Spirituality in Africa

Abstract

Carmel, in the context of biblical and historical texts is not something new in the land of Africa. Even before the Egyptian sojourn of  the Holy Family (Matt. 2, 13-15), the Prophet Elijah had already encountered the God of Hosts on Mount Horeb, in Africa. (1Kings 19,11-14) However, one must wait until the end of the Middle Ages to see the Order, in its juridical form, begin again on this dark  continent and this was in 1594 in the Kingdom of the Congo, but the experience was short lived. The twentieth century would see a  new wave which would do better. So, how would this Carmelite spirituality be experienced and incarnated in Africa? This Africa, with  its cultures that were so different and varied? In order to give a perspective on the situation, we have chosen three axes:  Firstly, the historical one present in certain aspects, which often are seen negatively regarding Africa, hindering its values. Then comes the axis of the reality  which shows what Carmel is in these countries and giving prominence to the relationship of the actual aspirations of the peoples,  notably the thirst for justice and the contribution that the Order offers through the uplifting experience of the Prophet Elijah. Finally, it  addresses the figures of Teresa of Avila, Isidore Bakanja and Titus Brandsma as a foundation leading to a reflection on the potential  inspiration given by the Order and would be of great benefit for Africa.