About

In 1955, Noel Sullivan, brother of Mother Agnes of the Santa Clara Monastery, came to the help of the Discalced Carmelites. Noel donated $60,000 to purchase the vacant mansion and 29 acres of the surrounding property. Noel died in 1956, leaving a further bequest to the Carmelites for the building of the present chapel. Paul Ryan was the architect.

     The altar of our Lady of Mt. Carmel in the chapel is a memorial to Noel Sullivan. A marble plaque recalls, in Latin, the memory of this great benefactor.

    " In loving memory of Noel Sullivan, most generous benefactor of the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mt. Carmel. Revered for his great love of God, of mankind and of all living things, in which he poured out great largess and kindness. Born December 25, 1890-died September 15, 1956."

     The Oakville monastery served as the novitiate for the California region for many years. Here, candidates for the Carmelite Order received their initial formation, before going on for further studies, to San Jose, founded a few years later. Hence Oakville could be called the cradle of the future Carmelite province.

     In 1981, when the novitiate was transferred to the San Jose Monastery, The mansion was designated as a house of prayer and retreat center. And that is the chief apostolate of the community at the present time.

Carmelite House of Prayer