With the Carmelite family of sisters, friars, and lay associates, the Church celebrates today the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The Carmelite tradition began with a group of hermits who gathered near the well of Elijah on Mt. Carmel in Palestine. This early contemplative community was dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus, under the title of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. This feast day celebration dates back to the 14th century.
Invoking Mary’s assistance and cherishing her presence in our hearts and homes are pivotal realities for the ongoing life of the Church. Today’s feast offers the opportunity for each of us to verbalize and celebrate Mary’s place in my heart…her presence within our family and faith community…her action within the Church!
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and the hour of our death. Amen!
—the Jesuit Prayer team