Saint Simon Stock and the Prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel

The prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, also known as the “Flos Carmeli” (“The Flower of Carmel”), was composed by St. Simon Stock (c. 1165-1265). The Saint was a Christian hermit known as a Carmelite. They were called the Carmelites because he and other members of his order lived atop Mount Carmel in the Holy Land. The Blessed Virgin Mary visited Saint Simon Stock on July 16, 1251, at which time she bestowed upon him a scapular, or habit, (commonly called “the Brown Scapular”), which became part of the liturgical clothing of the Carmelite order.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the title given to the Blessed Virgin Mary in honor of her visitation, and she is considered the patroness of the Carmelite Order. July 16 is also the day that Catholics celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which often begins with a recitation of the prayer. It can, however, be recited at any time for any need, usually as a novena, and can also be recited in a group as a much longer prayer known as the Litany of Intercession to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein that you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succor me in this my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein that you are my Mother.

O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us that have recourse to thee. (Repeat three times)

Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (Repeat three times)

Daily Reading, Saints

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