Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16

Today’s feast dates back to the 14th century, when it was instituted by the Carmelite order in celebration of the pope’s approval of its name and consitutions. It is celebrated on July 16th because Carmelite tradition states that Our Lady appeared to Simon Stock and gave him the scapular on that day.  Hermits lived on Mount Carmel in northern Israel in the 12th century and by the 13th century they became known as the “Brothers of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.” The Carmelites have a long standing reputation for being especially devoted to Mary and have promoted devotion to her throughout the centuries. Saint Teresa of Avila even called them “the Order of the Virgin”. The scapular they wear, and invite all of us to wear as well, symbolizes her special protection and calls us to prayer and penance. Now this feast is celebrated all over the world, from Spain to Peru and beyond. Our Lady lovingly covers us with her mantle of protection and calls us into a deeper relationship with Our Lord. Let us answer that call today.
—Tami Urcia