Priests and deacons seeking further education are invited to apply for a new bursary set up by the Carmelite Nuns of Melbourne.

The St Thérèse of Lisieux bursary, launched at the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference plenary meeting in Sydney on November 4, is being funded through the invested proceeds of the sale of the Carmelites’ property in Canberra.

Canberra’s Carmelite Sisters left the national capital for Melbourne after 50 years of service in 2024.

The Carmelite Order traces its origins to 13th century hermits on Mount Carmel in the Holy land.

In 1206, St Albert of Jerusalem gave them a Rule of Life that remains the foundation of Carmelite spirituality.

They have long upheld a ministry of prayerful support for the sanctification and pastoral effectiveness of Catholic clergy.

In keeping with this ministry, the St Thérèse of Lisieux Fund will provide bursaries to clergy in active ministry in Australian dioceses for further studies and educational opportunities that will enrich their priestly service.

Prioress Mother Angela told the plenary meeting the applications would be accepted at any time of the year but considered half-yearly in June and December.

Eligible forms of study may include extended spiritual retreats and sabbaticals, courses at recognised spirituality centres and accredited academic, vocational, or professional development programs.

All applications must be endorsed by the applicant’s bishop.

It is open to clergy incardinated in an Australian diocese, ordained Religious currently in diocesan appointments, active permanent deacons and ordained diocesan transitional deacons.

Expression of interest can be submitted here

(Image: Archbishop Christopher Prowse, Archbishop Peter Comensoli, Sister Marie Rose, Mother Angela, Bishop Greg Bennet and Archbishop Timothy Costelloe at the launch of the bursary in Sydney. Credit: Paul Osborne/Australian Catholic Bishops Conference)