Pronunciation: [səlˈɛstiːnz] (IPA) 
The word "Celestines" is spelled with a soft "s" sound at the end, pronounced like "z" or "zuh." In IPA phonetic transcription, this sound is represented by the symbol /z/. The rest of the word is pronounced as it appears, with stress on the second syllable. "Celestines" refers to a religious order of hermits founded in the 13th century, known for their devout and contemplative life.
Celestines refers to members of a religious order known as the Celestine Order or the Order of Celestines. Originating in 13th-century France, the Celestines are an offshoot of the Benedictine Order. The term "Celestines" is also used to describe the followers, adherents, or associates of this religious order.
The Celestines are particularly known for their emphasis on contemplative prayer and solitude. Their name comes from the Latin word "coelestis," which means "heavenly" or "celestial." Their primary objective is to seek a closer connection with the divine through a dedicated life of prayer, humility, and simplicity. This order values seclusion, practicing a monastic life of austerity and contemplation while living in small, self-sufficient hermitages.
The Order of Celestines has historically included both monks and nuns, with separate communities for each gender. They are characterized by their distinctive white robes and often taking on a vow of silence, dedicating themselves to solitary meditation and spiritual devotion.
While the Celestines have experienced fluctuations in popularity and membership throughout history, they have left a lasting impact on Christian spirituality through their commitment to personal spiritual growth and intimate communion with God. Their devout practices and teachings have influenced numerous individuals seeking a deeper spiritual connection, making the term "Celestines" synonymous with those who value seclusion, meditation, and a quest for spiritual enlightenment.
The word "Celestines" has its origins in the name of the religious order known as the Order of the Celestine Monks, officially called the Order of Saint Celestine. The name derives from the Latin word "caelestis", which means "heavenly" or "celestial". This name was chosen to reflect the order's focus on seeking spirituality and attaining union with God. The Celestine Monks were founded in Italy in the 13th century by Pope Celestine V, who became a hermit after resigning from the papacy. The name "Celestines" subsequently became associated with the monks of this order.
