The Hermitage as a means to union with God
The Hermitage is the antechamber of heaven. What that means is that it is the space in the monastery that is purely for God and the soul to commune. It is where the mysterious and beautiful work of the Holy Spirit of sanctifying the Carmelite will take place.
Solitude
The monks strive to remain near or in their hermitage when they have free time. This helps them keep their focus on union with God. St. John of the Cross explained that “a solitary and austere place is highly beneficial for a sure and direct ascent of the spirit to God without the impediment or detainment caused by visible things.” The primary work that happens in the hermitage is the work of the heart. It is by supernatural acts of faith, hope and charity that the Carmelite communes with God in his hermitage. Our great need is to be silent before God who hears best the silent language of love.
The layout of the Hermitage
There are 24 hermitages in the monastery. The hermitages are built according to the Carmelite Rule, individual and separated. They include an Ave Maria, which is the vestibule where we prepare to enter. The monks pray to Mary to help them in their solitude. Then there is an open chamber with a bed, desk and wood stove. There is likewise a bathroom. The Choir monks have their mass in their hermitage daily which requires a separate chapel in the rear of the hermitage.
Devotion to Mary in the Hermitage
There is likewise a large image of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel for the monks to give her honor as their special patroness. The Carmelite imitates the contemplative life of the Blessed Virgin. Like her, it is through His union with God that he is able to obtain grace for priests and for the conversion of sinners.