A forgotten pioneer

Today is the feast day of a hugely important figure in the history of our Order, Blessed John Soreth (1391-1471), who was Prior General of the Order long before the division brought about by the Teresian Reform over the last twenty years of his life. Such is the oblivion in which this great man has fallen that it is hard to glean much solid information about him, (why the neglect?); but it seems that he was instrumental in two impressive achievements - first, the establishment of an Order of Carmelite nuns, and second, the establishment of the Lay Carmelites in the years after 1452. One source reports that 'He was unflagging in his efforts at renewal, during what was an especially critical period for both the Church and the Order. He dedicated himself entirely to the reform of the Order, travelling across Europe, making canonical visitations and promoting a more faithful observance of religious life. He wrote a commentary on the Rule and published new revised Constitutions in 1462. Among his other activities was the encouragement and establishment of the Carmelite nuns, especially following the papal bull "Cum Nulla" of Nicholas V issued in 1452.'

Intercessions: for the soul of Evelyn Rodgers, who died on 22 July. She was instrumental in founding a Secular Community in Torbay, a wise and deeply spiritual lady.