The Virgin of Mount Carmel is one of the most beloved and venerated invocations in the Catholic Church. Her feast day, celebrated every July 16, stands out for its customs and traditions that vary in each region, but share a deep love and devotion to this Marian invocation. She is venerated as the patron saint of sailors and her influence extends across continents and cultures.
St. Josemaríathe founder of Opus Dei, had a deep devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. In one of his homilies, he said: "Let us go to Our Lady of Mount Carmel with complete confidence, for under her mantle we find refuge and protection". This testimony resonates in the hearts of many of the faithful who see in Our Lady of Mount Carmel a protective mother.
The devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel has its roots on Mount Carmel in Holy Landwhere the first Christian hermits are said to have lived. These hermits, inspired by the prophet Elijah, worshipped Mary as the Carmel Flower. The Carmelite Order, founded in the 12th century, adopted Our Lady of Mount Carmel as its patroness and spread her devotion throughout the world.
Today, Pope Francis has also spoken about the importance of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, highlighting her role as guide and protector of sailors and fishermen. In a general audience, he commented, "Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a star that guides those who seek peace and security in their faith."
The Virgen del Carmen is venerated as the patron saint of sailors, a devotion that has deep roots and a rich history. Every July 16, in various coastal towns, maritime processions are held in honor of the Virgin. These festivities are not only a show of faith, but also a tradition that unites entire communities in an act of devotion and hope.
The maritime processions are impressive spectacles where the boats are decorated and carry the image of the Virgin through the seas, symbolizing her constant protection over the sailors. The maritime procession is accompanied by the blessing of the waters and is a much awaited event in the life of the fishing communities, where for example cities like Cadiz celebrate with great fervor and community participation.
The history of the Virgin of Mount Carmel is also linked to the scapulara symbol of protection and Marian devotion. On July 16, 1251, Our Lady appeared to St. Simon Stock, superior general of the Carmelites, and gave him the scapular, promising her protection to those who wore it with faith.
Today, the use of the scapular is a very widespread devotion among the devotees of the Virgin of Mount Carmel. This small garment, reminiscent of the Carmelite habit, is worn around the neck and symbolizes that yoke which Jesus invites us to carry, but which Mary helps us to carry. Those who wear it commit themselves to live a life of prayer, devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and commitment to the Church.
Recent Popes have demonstrated a deep devotion to the Scapular, reflecting their love and faith in this powerful intercessor. St. John Paul II lived it throughout his life. "It was no secret that he wore the scapular all his life and spoke of it as an expression of his particular love for the Virgin Mary," (Fr. Miceal O'Neill, Carmelite).
The novenas in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel are common in many Catholic parishes. Where missions are also organized to visit the sick and needy, bringing the consolation and blessing of the Virgin.
If you are going to pray the novena on your own, start with a novena calendar to Our Lady of Mount Carmel that includes daily readings, prayers and reflections that bring you closer to the spirituality of this Marian devotion. The novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel is an opportunity to strengthen your faith, pray for your personal intentions and prepare to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel with devotion.
Participating in this novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel will allow you to arrive on July 16 with a renewed heart full of hope. Take this opportunity to deepen your relationship with Our Lady of Mount Carmel and prepare to live the feast in a meaningful way.
July 16 is much more than a date on the calendar: it is a day of deep devotion and celebration in honor of the Virgin Mary. Virgin of Carmen. On that day, Catholics from all over the world unite in churches, where solemn Masses become a moment of union in prayer to ask for the protection and guidance of the Virgin of Mount Carmel.
Throughout the day, floral offerings are made, processions and liturgical events that fill the streets and churches with an atmosphere of faith and hope. Therefore, July 16 is an opportunity to reflect, celebrate and act. We invite you to unite your prayer to a concrete action through your support to the CARF Foundation. Your donation is a tangible way to live your faith, extending the love of Our Lady of Mount Carmel to those who need it most.
In the words of St. Josemaría, "Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a merciful Mother who calls us to follow her Son with generosity and love. This July 16, celebrate with us leaving your mark helping to sow the world of priests and the smile of God on Earth.
Happy feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel!
