Carmel of the Immaculate Conception
Tamuning, Guam
Carmel of Guam
The Carmelite Sisters are an order of contemplative Catholic nuns who follow the reformed observance of the Carmelite Rule as defined by Saint Teresa of Avila. The Carmelites are so named because they were traditionally founded by Christian hermits on Mount Carmel in Palestine. The Carmelites are cloistered; that is, they do not leave the monastery except for medical needs and in other special circumstances, but remain within the monastery leading a life of quiet prayer and work.
The Carmelites were invited to Guam 1966. The Carmelite pioneers on Guam were sent by the Carmelite Monastery of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
The Carmelites built their monastery in Malojloj, Inarajan and began to support themselves through the making and sale of communion wafers, baptismal gowns, wedding veils, Christmas decorations, and other such products. For some years they also maintained an egg farm. Many local benefactors over the years have also assisted the nuns. The nuns were often sought after in Malojloj for intercessory prayer and spiritual guidance.
In December 2006, the community moved out of their Malojloj monastery to a house in Tamuning which was renovated into a monastery. In their urban setting today, the Carmelites hope to continue being a spiritual oasis in the midst of the commercial center of Guam.
Carmel of the Immaculate Conception
P.O. Box 315225
Tamuning, Guam 96931
E-mail: guam@carmelite-nuns.org