Feast Day: Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Our Lady of Mount Carmel continues to be a significant part of my BVM life. History tells the story of Hermits who lived on Mount Carmel in the 12th century and later of miracles attributed to Mary saving John of the cross leading him to Carmel. Carmelites were known in their early days as Brothers of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel has a personal meaning for me. Mary has made herself known to me at Mount Carmel. She has revealed herself through the many relationships I have had with my sisters in community. I have experienced both as Mother and as Sister in my reflections.
I see her as a person who could withstand any hardship with the ones she loved around her. Maybe that comes from the sense of Carmel. The hardships the men and women experience there. I have relied on the courage she portrays. I have counted on my sisters to give me support when times are dark and to celebrate with me in times of joy.
We have celebrated vows on the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. We continue to celebrate on her feast. I continue to hold her as strength, love, compassion and charity in my life.
Artwork: Janet Staples, BVM
Thanks for sharing this. It is lovely getting to know your heart more.
Beautiful reflection. She sustained me during my formation days as well as my ministry at Carmel Catholic High School. Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us.
Kathy, I so appreciate your heart-felt sharing of the significance of Mt Carmel. Jean
A special day for me, too. I made my Final Vows on July 16, and later spent 12 years at Carmel High School in Mundelein. Also, Mount Carmel in Dubuque continues to be the gathering space for our BVM Sisters. Just had an amazing Liturgy there on Sunday.
Thank you, Kathy, for sharing this thoughtful and heartfelt reflection on our Lady of Mt. Carmel. She is indeed a model of faith and wisdom for all of us BVMs!
What a nice surprise to find you and your reflection on RFC’s Facebook page for today. Thanks so much for sharing this dimension of your story and the BVM tradition with all of us! Carol
Kathy, I just re-read your reflection and am grateful for your revealing thoughts about our treasured
feast. Mary Lantry, BVM taught us “Virgin Mary of Mt. Carmel” in high school days in Des Moines and
that began my connecting with the title for Mary.