Our Lady of Mount Carmel is one of the most cherished titles of the Virgin Mary, closely associated with the Carmelite Order, which began on Mount Carmel in the Holy Land during the 12th century. The early hermits who lived there honored Mary as their spiritual mother and protector.
The most well-known tradition linked to Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the Scapular Promise. On July 16, 1251, the Blessed Virgin appeared to St. Simon Stock, a Carmelite prior in England, and gave him the brown scapular, saying:
"Whoever dies wearing this scapular shall not suffer eternal fire."
Since then, the brown scapular has become a sign of Mary's care, a call to live a holy life, and a symbol of her promise of salvation for those who entrust themselves to her.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel is especially honored as a powerful intercessor and spiritual protector, and her feast is celebrated on July 16 each year.
