Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Image Courtesy: Archbishop Jose Gomez
(Franciscan Media) Hermits lived on Mount Carmel near the Fountain of Elijah in Northern Israel in the 12th century, they had a Chapel dedicated to ‘Our Lady’ by the 13th century, they became known as ‘Brothers of Our Lady of Mount Carmel’ and soon celebrated a Special Mass and Office in Honor of Mary. In 1727 it became a celebration of the universal Church under the title of, ‘Our Lady of Mount Carmel.’
For centuries, the Carmelites have seen themselves as specially related to Mary, their Great Saints and Theologians, have promoted devotion to her and often championed the mystery of her Immaculate Conception.
St. Teresa of Avila (Feast Day: 15 October) called Carmel, ‘The Order of the Virgin.’ — St. John of the Cross (Feast Day: 14 December) credited Mary with saving him from drowning as a child, leading him to Carmel and helping him escape from prison.
St. Therese of (Lisieux) the Child Jesus believed that Mary cured her from illness. On her first Communion day, Therese dedicated her life to Mary. During the last days of her life, she frequently spoke of Mary.
There is a tradition that Mary appeared to St. Simon Stock (Feast Day: 16 May) a Leader of the Carmelites and gave to him a Scapular, telling him to promote devotion to it. The Scapular was a modified version of Mary’s own garment and symbolized her ‘special protection’ and called the wearers to consecrate themselves to her in a special way. — The Scapular reminds us of the Gospel call to prayer and penance, a call that Mary models in a splendid way.
Related: (Video) The Brown Scapular Against the Forces of Evil
For Today’s Bible Readings for the ‘Memorial of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Visit: -USCCB