Seventh Day: Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel (July 13)

MARY OUR MOTHER, A VIRGIN

The Word of God: Blessed are the breasts you sucked (Lk 11: 27-28)

As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, "Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!" But he said, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!"

Meditation

It may seem that Jesus belittles Mary's part, preferring his disciples. But if we read the text carefully, we will see that Jesus is really praising his mother. She is the woman who listens to the Word of God and keeps it all the time. She is an attentive disciple who keeps in her heart her Son's words and day after day keeps them. She points the way to us so that we too may imitate her if we wish to be truly her devotees.

Novena

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, when you gave the scapular to St. Simon Stock, you promised to especially watch over all those who wear it. You said, “It shall be a sign of salvation, a protection in danger, and a pledge of peace.” My Lady, there are so many people who are suffering in this world. So many people are physically sick. So many people are mentally distressed. And so many are spiritually ill. Today, I bring them all before you. Please hold them in your loving embrace. Give them the peace and protection you mentioned to St. Simon. Bear them before Our Loving God and ask for their healing. Intercede to end to their suffering. I especially pray for all those I know who are sick or suffering. Please also keep in my mind intentions: (State your intentions here). God, I know that all things are in Your Hands. Please hear my prayers on behalf of all those who are sick and suffering. Allow me to offer up my own trials for their sake!

Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us!

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