July 16 is the Feast of the patroness of our parish, Our Lady
of Mount Carmel.
So what exactly are we
celebrating?
Tradition has it that on July 16, 1251, the Blessed Virgin
Mary appeared to St. Simon Stock, a Carmelite friar, presenting to him the
Brown Scapular. Years ago, children were
often given a small scapular on the occasion of their First Communion. A brown scapular is made of two small pieces
of cloth, usually with a prayer on one and an image of Our Lady on the other,
joined by two thin connecting strips of cloth or ribbon. The scapular is worn around one’s neck, with one
part hanging in front and the other in the back. Wearing the scapular daily is a sign of
devotion to Our Lady.
According to the Catholic
Encyclopedia, the feast celebrates Mary’s special care for those who are
devoted to her, and who demonstrate that devotion by wearing her scapular. A special grace of final perseverance is
granted to them.
Prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel
O
most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven,
Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my
necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein that you are my
Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God,
Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to
succor me in this my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. O
show me herein that you are my Mother. O
Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us that have recourse to thee. (3
times). Sweet Mother, I place this
cause in your hands. (3 times)
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