The Carmelite order is a religious order of the Catholic Church that has been around since the 12th century. The members of this order are known as friars, and they are devoted to a life of prayer and contemplation. St. Teresa of Avila was a prominent member of the Carmelite order in the 16th century, and she is known for her writings on the spiritual life. Theresa of Lisieux was another important figure in the Carmelite order, and she is known for her writings on the spiritual life and her devotion to the Virgin Mary. Edith Stein was a Jewish convert to Catholicism who joined the Carmelite order and was later canonized as a saint. Finally, nuns are members of the Carmelite order who take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.