Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

This year in our monastery chapel at the Little Rock Carmel was one of the most well attended Novenas we have had! Most nights the chapel was full, and on the last night–for the solemn Mass of the feast day–it was so full we had to add folding chairs in the back! Our Lady must have been so happy that so many of her children came to honor her and draw closer to her and her Divine Son. Many people participated in the whole nine days of Masses, which is quite admirable. Throughout the nine days our sisters prayed continually for those attending and for all who were not able to attend, and for the petitions we received. How could Our Lady refuse any good request she was given in love and faith? Most assuredly she did not, and we only trust the mercy of God to provide the answers to all our needs, according to His good and holy will!

Rev. Joseph de Orbegozo was our Novena preacher this year. He is one of our “very own” diocesan priests and currently the rector of our local cathedral in Little Rock, the Cathedral of St. Andrew. He gave poignant reflections each night on the Mass readings from the old testament that spoke of Jacob and his sons, as well as other highlights. Our Blessed Mother’s example was revealed even there, in a foreshadowing that would one day be manifested in her Son, the Savior of all mankind.

It is the tradition to offer at the end of the Novena Enrollment in the Brown Scapular. The Brown Scapular was given to St. Simon Stock in a vision of the Blessed Mother:

Simon was elected Superior General of the Carmelite Order as it wrestled with numerous challenges from within and without. In turmoil, Simon beseeched the Virgin Mary for a sign of her favor to strengthen the Order. According to tradition, on July 16, 1251, he had a vision of Our Lady, who gave him the Brown Scapular and promised final perseverance in grace to those who remained faithful to Carmel until death.
(See more: St. Simon Stock receives the Brown Scapular)

The nuns were happy that so many of our homemade Scapulars were placed upon so many shoulders on the solemnity of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. Now, she has many more of her children clothed with her very own garment of maternal love and protection.

May all of us know the love of Mary, Queen and Beauty of Mt. Carmel, and wear her Scapular with filial devotion, that she may keep us close to herself and her Son.