Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena - day one

     Today starts the Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel!

     Mount Carmel, a prominent coastal mountain range in Israel, holds deep Spiritual significance. In the Old Testament, it was the setting where the prophet Elijah defended the one true God against the prophets of Baal, and prayed for rain to end Israel's drought. In the 12th century, Christian hermit's retreated to the grottos of this mountain to imitate the contemplative life of Elijah. They dedicated their first Chapel to the Blessed Virgin Mary, becoming known as "the brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel". 

     Our Blessed Mother Mary, appeared to Saint Simon Stock, in the 13th century on July 16th, 1251. She presented him with the Brown Scapular, promising that anyone who died wearing it would be preserved from eternal damnation. 

     The liturgical celebration of Our Lady of Mount Carmel occurs annually on July 16th, a date officially added to the Universal Church calendar, signifying Consecration to Mary and the commitment to a life of prayer. 

     There are many Carmelite Saints such as St Teresa of Avila, St John of the cross, and St Therese of Lisieux, who regarded Mary as their Mother, protectress and ultimate guide in Spiritual life. 

     Wearing the Brown Scapular and following Mary, our Mother in this dedication of love and trust and Her eternal protection is wise and yields Her return to us a Love and Mercy for us, with Her keeping us safe from harm as She folds us in Her Holy Mantle, protecting us as our Mother. Here is day 1 of the Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. 

     In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

     God, thank you for the Blessed Mother. You are so kind to share Her with us as a Mother. Her apparitions throughout the centuries have brought much peace to many people. And so, many people have become closer to You because of Her.

     Our Lady of Mount Carmel, when you appeared to Saint Simon Stock, you presented him with the Scapular. You promised to be with all wearers of the Scapular, especially at their deaths. You also promised to rescue all of those who wear it from a lengthy Purgatory. 

     Please watch over all those who wear the Scapular. Intercede on their behalf to your Son, Jesus. Reward them for their faithfulness in this practice by listening to their petitions. Inspire them to keep the promises they devote themselves to through this practice. 

     If you are calling me to consider wearing the Scapular myself, please also make that known to me through this Novena. 

     I also bring to you my personal intentions. (State your intentions here).

     Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us! In the name of Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

      All to Jesus, through Mary!