The term WHITE FRIAR is composed of two words, CARMELITE and FRIAR. The Carmelites are a Roman Catholic religious order of friars founded in the 12th century on Mount Carmel in the Holy Land. They are also known as the White Friars because of the white cloak they wear over their brown habit. The Friars are members of a religious order of men who live a communal life and dedicate themselves to prayer and service. They are often found in monasteries, churches, and other religious institutions.