Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a title for the Virgin Mary, highlighting her connection to Mount Carmel in Israel, where the Prophet Elijah lived. She is especially venerated as the patroness of the Carmelite Order, a Catholic religious community dedicated to prayer and contemplation. The feast day, July 16, or July 16–17, commemorates her giving the Brown Scapular—a symbol of her protection and promise of spiritual growth—to Saint Simon Stock. Devotees believe wearing the scapular encourages faith, prayer, and perseverance, reinforcing trust in Mary's maternal care and intercession.