Sixth Day: Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel (July 12)

MARY, A MOTHER UNTIRING SEEKER OF GOD

The Word of God: The finding in the temple (Lk 2: 41-50)

Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom; and when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, but supposing him to be in the company they went a day's journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances; and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions; and all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. And when they saw him, they were astonished; and his mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously." And he said to them, "How is it that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my father’s house?" And they did not understand the saying which he spoke to them.

Meditation

Mary and Joseph are distressed at the loss of their son, Jesus. They set out to search for him and find him after three days. In our life sometimes it seems that Jesus hides himself from us and leaves us alone. What do we do? Do we despair? Do we turn towards other goods? Or do we set out in search of Jesus so as not to lose him ever again. Mary and Joseph teach us to be untiring seekers of God, because he has made us for himself and our heart is restless until it rests in him (St. Augustine).

Novena

O Lord, you are so merciful. As such, you have reserved a place between Heaven and Hell - Purgatory, a place where we can be cleansed and purified of the lasting effects of our sins. That is where you come in, Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Part of your promises to those who wear the scapular is retrieval from Purgatory. You told St. Simon that you would descend to Purgatory each week and release all those who wore the scapular during their lifetime. I intercede today on behalf of all the holy souls in Purgatory. Please bring them quickly to Our Lord. Beg for them before your Son. I know He will not refuse your request. Release them from their bondage and usher them home to Our Lord. There, they can love Him and be joyful with Him and you for eternity. I ask that you particularly watch over any souls in Purgatory that I may know and love, especially those of my family and friends. Please also keep in mind my intentions: (State your intentions here)

Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us!

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