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July 16
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Hermits lived on Mount Carmel near the
Fountain of Elijah (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.” They soon celebrated a special Mass and Office in honor of Mary. In 1726 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 (October 15) called Carmel “the Order of the Virgin.” St. John of the Cross (December 14)
credited Mary with saving him from drowning as
a child, leading him to Carmel and helping him escape from prison. St. Theresa
of the Child Jesus believed that Mary cured her from illness. On her First
Communion, she dedicated her life to Mary. During the last days of her life she
frequently spoke of Mary.
There is a tradition (which may not be historical) that Mary
appeared to St. Simon Stock, a leader of the Carmelites, and gave him a
scapular, telling him to promote devotion to it. The scapular is a modified
version of Mary’s own garment. It symbolizes her special protection and calls
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.
Comment:
The Carmelites were known from early on as “Brothers
of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.” The title suggests that they saw Mary not only as
“mother,” but also as “sister.” The word “sister” is a reminder that Mary is
very close to us. She is the daughter of God and therefore can help us be
authentic daughters and sons of God. She also can help us grow in appreciation
of being sisters and brothers to one another. She leads us to a new realization
that all human beings belong to the family of God. When such a conviction
grows, there is hope that the human race can find its way to peace.
Quote:
“The various forms of piety toward the Mother of God,
which the Church has approved within the limits of sound and orthodox doctrine,
according to the dispositions and understanding of the faithful, ensure that while
the mother is honored, the Son through whom all
things have their being (cf. Colossians 1:15–16) and in whom it has pleased the
Father that all fullness should dwell (cf. Colossians 1:19) is rightly known,
loved and glorified and his commandments are observed” (Dogmatic
Constitution on the Church, 66).
Patron Saint of:
Chile
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