A “Scent” of
A recent phenomenon that has been surprising a lot of people is the success of the trekkies (read: Star Trek) conventions in the 
therwise would have been considered strange or even bizarre are able to discuss the finer points of why Mr. Spock has pointed ears. As they say, “weird is relative.”
It is along the same line of thinking that I was so excited to attend the General Chapter of the Discalced Carmelite Fathers in Fatima, Portugal last April 17 to May 8, 2009. Aside from it being held only once every six years, it would probably be the only forum where I would meet more than a hundred other guys who are confronted with the same problems that I struggle with everyday. Some of these problems are so mind-boggling, you wouldn’t believe me if I told you.
The participating Provincials came in all shapes, sizes, ages, color and degrees of receding hairlines. One thing though we had in common was our struggle to be faithful to prayer. I was specially edified by the friars, who even after a long day’s work, would still find time and energy to do their private prayer in the oratory. Others woke up very early and did their mental prayer before our scheduled masses. This was quite difficult because the weather in
The Chapter lasted for three weeks and we tackled many difficult issues and problems. Some of which were left unresolved due to their complexity. The new General ( Fr. Saverio Cannistra) and his Council really ha
ve their work cut out for them. With so many changes and challenges confronting the Order at this time, I have no doubt that the next six years will be an uphill and arduous climb for all of us. However, I am also sure that with prayer as our guiding light, no problem will be insurmountable.
Ascending the heights of
