Our Lady of Mount Carmel
A celebration of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the patroness of the Carmelite Order.
Celebrating Our Lady's Protection
The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is celebrated on July 16th and honors Mary as the patroness of the Carmelite Order. This day highlights her role as a guiding mother and protector, inviting the faithful to seek her intercession and embrace her virtues.
The title 'Our Lady of Mount Carmel' is rooted in the biblical Mount Carmel, a place of prayer and contemplation. The Carmelite Order, founded in the 12th century, has a rich tradition of devotion to Mary, emphasizing her maternal care and the call to holiness.
Origins of the Feast
The origins of the feast date back to the 14th century when the Carmelite Order began to celebrate Mary under this title. The feast was officially recognized by the Church in the 18th century, reflecting the growing devotion to Mary among the faithful.
Traditionally, the brown scapular, a symbol of Mary's protection, is associated with this feast, representing the promise of salvation and the call to live a life of virtue and prayer.
Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.
Luke 2:19Symbols & iconography
- Brown ScapularA symbol of Mary's protection and a reminder of the call to holiness.
- Mount CarmelRepresents a place of prayer and closeness to God.
Customs & traditions
Praying the Rosary
Families can gather to pray the Rosary, asking for Mary's intercession.
Lighting a Candle
Light a candle in honor of Our Lady, symbolizing her guiding light in your lives.
Sharing a Meal
Prepare a special meal together to celebrate the feast and reflect on Mary's role in your family.
About this date
This feast is celebrated on July 16th, a date chosen to honor the historical significance of the Carmelite Order's devotion to Mary.
Frequently asked
What is the significance of the brown scapular?
The brown scapular is a sign of devotion to Mary and a reminder of her protection.
How can we celebrate this feast at home?
Families can celebrate by praying together, sharing a meal, and reflecting on Mary's role in their lives.
What does Our Lady of Mount Carmel symbolize?
She symbolizes maternal care, protection, and the call to a deeper relationship with God.
Pray it as a household
Bring the feast into your family’s day
Solua walks your family through the day’s prayer together — a few unhurried minutes, shaped by the season.
Pray Together