Antique books, so-called Karmelitana in the collection of the monastic library in Czerna

Waldemar Graczyk

Abstract

The monastery-hermitage of the Discalced Carmelites in Czerna, created in the seventeenth century, collected books related to the history and spirituality of the Carmelites, and the legislation of that Order from its inception. That was due to the fact that the Carmelites, especially in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, had a significant impact on the development of Marian, patristic and ascetic spirituality. Eminent people from the circle of Carmelite feathers left behind works that today inspire the development of spiritual and mystical theology. Carmelite literature focused primarily on four thematic groups: the theology of the inner life, the controversial theology, Mariology and broadly defined preaching. Concern for the last one was clearly visible in the pastoral activities of the Discalced Carmelites from the beginning of their presence in Poland. Numerous treaties, studies, Spanish translations of mystics’ writings and sermons preserved in the library of Czerna are the sign of theological and preacher’s activity of the Carmelites. Preserved to the present day in the library of the former monastery-hermitage of Czerna, they show the signs of use over the past centuries. They served the monks, above all in the pursuit of their religious vocation, and thus deepening their spiritual lives.