History & Biographies

Our Lady of Mount Carmel: Patroness of the Carmelites

Our Lady of Mount Carmel holds a revered place as the Patroness of the Carmelite Order, a religious community that traces its origins to the beautiful promontory of Mount Carmel in Israel, facing the Mediterranean Sea. Since the time of the prophet Elijah, around 850 BC, Mount Carmel has been considered a holy place and a symbol of fidelity to the Lord. It was here that Elijah assembled the people of Israel to demonstrate the supremacy of God over Baal, as recounted in 1 Kings 18:22-29.

The Foundation of the Carmelite Order

In 1150, St. Berthold founded the Order of the Carmelites on Mount Carmel, placing it under the patronage of the Mother of God. The rule of the order was severe, emphasizing poverty, abstinence from meat, and solitude. This strict lifestyle aimed to cultivate a deep spiritual connection and unwavering commitment to God.

Transformation and Expansion

The Carmelite Order underwent significant transformations after the Crusades. St. Simon Stock reorganized the Carmelites as mendicant friars, enabling them to engage in a more active apostolate. This shift allowed the Carmelites to reach out to the broader community while maintaining their spiritual discipline.

The Division into Two Branches

During the 16th century, the Carmelite Order split into two independent branches:

  1. Calced Carmelites: This branch observed the mitigated rule of St. Simon Stock, allowing for some relaxation of the original strictness.
  2. Discalced Carmelites: This branch followed the reforms of St. John of the Cross, returning to a more austere and contemplative way of life.

The Carmelite Nuns

Among the several orders of Carmelite nuns, the best known is the Order of Discalced Carmelites, founded by St. Teresa of Avila in the 16th century. St. Teresa’s profound spiritual insights and reforms significantly shaped the contemplative and mystical focus of the Discalced Carmelites.

The Scapular of Mount Carmel

One of the most significant aspects of Carmelite devotion is the Scapular of Mount Carmel. This devotion is based on a Marian revelation to St. Simon Stock on July 16, 1251. The Blessed Mother appeared to him and gave him the brown scapular, promising special protection and heavenly graces to those who wear it. This promise led to the widespread devotion to the Scapular throughout Europe.

The Feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

The feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is celebrated annually on July 16th. This day commemorates the apparition of the Blessed Mother to St. Simon Stock and the bestowal of the brown scapular. The feast is a significant occasion for the Carmelite Order and its devotees, marked by special Masses, processions, and other devotional activities. The faithful often renew their commitment to wearing the scapular and reflect on the spiritual benefits and protections promised by the Blessed Mother. The feast day serves as a reminder of the deep connection between the Carmelite Order and the Blessed Virgin Mary, reinforcing their dedication to a life of prayer, penance, and service.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel continues to inspire and guide the Carmelite Order and its devotees worldwide. The profound spiritual heritage of the Carmelites, rooted in their origins on Mount Carmel and enriched by the revelations and reforms of their saints, remains a testament to their enduring fidelity and devotion to God and the Blessed Mother. The Scapular of Mount Carmel symbolizes this deep connection, offering a tangible sign of faith and divine protection. Celebrating the feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel reaffirms the spiritual bond and commitment of the faithful to a life of holiness and devotion.