Enjoy today's Minute Meditations about the humility of St. Francis! 🙌
Hello John,
In today's Saint of the Day, we learn of the Carmelites' deep devotion to Mary, as well as the profound impact she has had on the order's saints and theologians. Their special connection to Mary is evident in the celebration of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, as well as in the tradition of the scapular, which symbolizes her special protection. This demonstrates the enduring influence of Mary within the Carmelite tradition and the wider Church. If you appreciate meaningful content like this, please consider supporting Franciscan Media with a donation. Your contribution will help ensure the continuation of insightful stories and spiritual resources that inspire people worldwide. Donate today! |
Saint of the Day for July 16: Our Lady of Mount Carmel The Story of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Hermits lived on Mount Carmel near the Fountain of Elijah in northern Israel in the 12th century. They had a chapel dedicated to Our Lady. By the 13th century they became known as “Brothers of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.” They soon celebrated a special Mass and Office in honor of Mary. In 1726, it became a celebration of the universal Church under the title of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. For centuries the Carmelites have seen themselves as specially related to Mary. Their great saints and theologians have promoted devotion to her and often championed the mystery of her Immaculate Conception. Saint Teresa of Avila called Carmel “the Order of the Virgin.” Saint John of the Cross credited Mary with saving him from drowning as a child, leading him to Carmel, and helping him escape from prison. Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus believed that Mary cured her from illness. On her First Communion day, Thérèse dedicated her life to Mary. During the last days of her life she frequently spoke of Mary. There is a tradition—which may not be historical—that Mary appeared to Saint Simon Stock, a leader of the Carmelites, and gave him a scapular, telling him to promote devotion to it. The scapular is a modified version of Mary’s own garment. It symbolizes her special protection and calls the wearers to consecrate themselves to her in a special way. The scapular reminds us of the gospel call to prayer and penance—a call that Mary models in a splendid way. Reflection The Carmelites were known from early on as “Brothers of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.” The title suggests that they saw Mary not only as “mother,” but also as “sister.” The word sister is a reminder that Mary is very close to us. She is the daughter of God and therefore can help us be authentic daughters and sons of God. She also can help us grow in appreciation of being sisters and brothers to one another. She leads us to a new realization that all human beings belong to the family of God. When such a conviction grows, there is hope that the human race can find its way to peace. Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the Patron Saint of: Chile
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In honor of the National Eucharistic Conference taking place July 17–21, Enjoy 30% off the book Eucharistic Adoration: Reflections in the Franciscan Tradition. Today only! (Use promo code Eucharistic30, applied at checkout) |
The Humility of Francis To describe God as “humble” may seem outrageous or even scandalous. Who could stake one’s life on a humble God? Yet, it was precisely the humility of God that caught Francis’ attention—no, even better—to which he devoted his life. This is how Thomas of Celano describes Francis: Humble in manner,
he was more humble in opinion,
and most humble in his own estimation.
This prince of God
could not be identified as a prelate,
except by this sparkling gem:
he was the least among the lesser.
…There was no arrogance in his mouth,
no pomp in his gestures,
no conceit in his actions.
He learned by revelation
the meaning of many things,
but when he was conversing among others
he put the opinions of others ahead of his own. When we understand the God of poor and humble love, then we understand Francis’ poor and humble life. —from the book The Humility of God: A Franciscan Perspective,
by Ilia Delio, OSF |
Discover this Franciscan classic! Ilia Delio, OSF, shows how the Franciscan way can offer all Christians an intimate and wholehearted approach to prayer. Franciscan Prayer: Awakening to Oneness with God |
The Sacred Wisdom of the Elderly Reflect In Western culture, sometimes there is a lack of respect and care for the elderly among us. All too often we have become a “throwaway culture”—we disregard human life that does not appear to be productive. There is such wisdom, virtue, and strength of character we can learn and appreciate from the generations older than us. Pray Loving God,
We give thanks for the lives and wisdom of the elderly among us—
grandparents, neighbors, parents, retirees.
Help us to cherish their stories, their experiences,
and not take their lives for granted.
When I encounter an elderly person,
may I approach them with kindness and respect.
Amen. Act Consider the people in your life or who you encounter on a given day. Is there a senior citizen in your life you could bless, do an act of kindness for today? Be the loving presence of God to one of these individuals today. Today's Pause+Pray was written by Patricia Breen. Learn more here! |
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