Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a title given to the Virgin Mary that comes from Mount Carmel in the Holy Land, a place long associated with prayer and contemplation. In the Old Testament, Mount Carmel was linked to the prophet Elijah, who defended faith in the one true God and gathered disciples who lived a life of prayer there. These early hermits saw Mary as their spiritual mother and model, and over time their community developed into what is now known as the Carmelite Order.

A key moment in devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel occurred in 1251, when tradition holds that the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Simon Stock, the Prior General of the Carmelites. During this apparition, she presented him with the Brown Scapular, promising special protection and graces to those who wear it with faith and live a Christian life. The scapular became a powerful symbol of Mary’s maternal care and a sign of belonging to her spiritual family.

Devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel emphasizes trust in Mary’s intercession and a commitment to prayer, humility, and closeness to Christ. She is seen as a guide who leads believers to her Son, especially through interior prayer and perseverance in faith. Carmelites, inspired by Mary, seek to live lives rooted in silence, contemplation, and service to the Church and the world.

The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is celebrated on July 16 and is observed by Catholics around the world. On this day, many renew their devotion to Mary, often by enrolling in the Brown Scapular or deepening their prayer life. Our Lady of Mount Carmel continues to be honoured as a loving mother and protector, inviting all Christians to draw nearer to Christ through her example and intercession.