Homily: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel (Mt. 11:20-24) “To See Clearly”

The feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel is a feast that celebrates the history of the Carmelite order. The Carmelite Order began in the Holy Land in the 12th and 13th Century. The first members were hermits who lived on Mt. Carmel. On that mountain they built a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.

The Carmelites migrated to Europe (England) at the time of the crusades. They evolved from being an order of hermits to being an order of friars. This meant they became an order that had a ministry among the people of God. We know they are great educators for example. But they are mostly known for being traveling preachers.

One of the things they are most noted for is for promoting the brown scapular The Carmelites always wore a habit (religious dress) that was brown. The scapular is a part of that habit. This is a long piece of cloth that is draped over the top of a cassock. The head fits through the cloth and a hood is attached.

Lay people were interested in the spirituality of the Carmelites. The order began to encourage people to wear a small version of the scapular that consisted of two pieces of cloth that hung down from a cord on the chest and back. The cloth is a sign of dedication to God and Carmelite spirituality.

The Carmelites believe that Mary is a model of what we all should be as Christians. She was the model of all contemplatives. We read in Sacred scripture in several places that she was one who pondered what she experienced. Pondering is a word that reminds us that we are not supposed to jump to quick conclusions about life experiences, but we are to withhold judgement until we pray and reflect. That way we will respect the mystery of the life we live with God.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Do I move quickly from experience to experience in my life? Do I miss the significance of things?

2.   What does it mean to ponder things? Can I look to Mary to be a model for me?

 Dear Parishioners,

          I would like to thank all those that helped with vacation Bible school last week. I had the closing liturgy and there was great joy among the families who were involved. I especially thank Debbie Patronagio who coordinated the activities during the week.

         I would also like to thank all those who assisted with Coffee Café and donuts on Sunday. It seemed like people had a lot of time to sit and visit. Summer is a time when life is a little less hectic.

         Both these events helped build community in our parish. This is a wonderful thing to see.

         May Our Lady of Mt. Carmel pray for us,

         Fr. Mark