Mount Carmel – the site of a miraculous manifestation of God's almighty power and dominion in Old Testament times – three miles south of Haifa in present-day Israel, is the place traditionally associated with the beginning of the Carmelite order around the year 1200. This is where a group of hermits formed a community on its western slope. Soon they received a "formula of life" (a Rule) from the patriarch of Jerusalem, commending daily Eucharist, continual prayer (especially the psalms) and silence otherwise, manual labor, and other forms of ascetical practices. It was a balanced life of both solitude and community, with a structure of individual cells surrounding an oratory. The order received formal papal approval in 1298. From the very beginning the Carmelites identified themselves with the Blessed Virgin Mary. The oratory was dedicated to her, and Carmelites became known as the Brothers of Our lady of Mount Carmel, who they saw as their patroness.
Today may we remember how Mary carried the Lord in her womb before his birth, as we carry him in our hearts each time we receive him in the Blessed Eucharist after his birth! And just as her heart rejoiced to overflowing when she pondered this awesome mystery and reality wondering what it all could mean; so to we must ponder the mystery of the Risen Christ living within us: what does it mean? what do I do with the Precious Gift? how can I make him known, adored and loved as he deserves and as I ought?
With the help of the Virgin Mary's prayers we will know what to do: as she speaks to us in those wondrous moments following communion when we sit in silence and contemplate so Great a Guest really present now in our souls. And then may we go out and be his mother and brothers and sisters and friends by doing what both Jesus and Mary always did: the will of the Father in spreading love and friendship far and wide!
Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it!
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