← [[ocds-fh-07|Charism of the Order]] | [[formation-handbook-toc|Table of Contents]] | [[using-the-syllabus-fh|Using the Syllabus]] → # The OCDS Syllabus The OCDS Syllabus is designed to convey the Gospel message based on the writings of the Carmelite saints, Church documents, and the Catechism of the Catholic Church (see Const. 32-35). It involves the process of transformation within the context of active and passive purification that leads one to the glorious union with God: It is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me (Gal. 2:20). This will lead to prayer and union “as an attitude of life, that will ‘always and everywhere recognize God … seek his will in every event, see Christ in all people whether they be a relative or a stranger, and make correct judgments about the true meaning and value of temporal things both in themselves and in their relation to mankind's final goal.’ Thus, they will achieve a union of contemplation and action in history, integrating faith and life, prayer and action, contemplation and Christian commitment” (Const. 20). Initial formation involves many important facets of life in Carmel that help candidates to advance in prayer and discernment. One such essential element in formation is the “study” of the OCDS legislative documents, Church documents, and most central, the writings of our Carmelite Doctors of the Church. This “study” is a pondering and internalizing; it is meant to be transformative. The discussions are a mutual accompaniment, each aiding each on their spiritual journey. (See Fr. Deeney’s article on the role of study, below.) The Study Editions have been assigned because the explanatory notes provide valuable insights and are an important tool for additional information related to the assigned chapters. However, the explanatory notes are not meant to replace the main book written by the saints. Formators and candidates are responsible for attentively reading the actual writings of the saints when preparing for the formation sessions. The syllabus presented for each formation cycle (12 sessions) states the objectives and lists the essential materials. The formator’s full participation is crucial in presenting the materials, the theme of each session, the assigned chapters, and the brief review of the essential points to discuss. --- **Source:** [[maps/bibliography#^biblio-ocds-fh|OCDS Formation Handbook]]