Our Lady of Mount Carmel has its origins linked to Mount Carmel, a mountain located in the region of present-day Israel and considered an important place of spirituality since biblical times. In the 12th century, a group of Christian hermits chose to live in this place in prayer and contemplation, inspired by the life of the prophet Elijah, who, according to biblical tradition, inhabited the mountain and performed miracles there in defense of the faith.

Over time, this community gave rise to the Order of Carmel, responsible for spreading devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, who came to be venerated as the patron saint and protector of the Carmelites and, later, of millions of faithful throughout the world.

Devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel spread quickly, especially after the tradition that reports the apparition of the Virgin Mary to Saint Simon Stock, superior of the Carmelite Order, in the 13th century. On that occasion, she would have handed over the Carmelite scapular as a sign of spiritual protection and commitment to the faith, promising special graces to those who used it with devotion.

Celebrated on July 16, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Day is a special occasion for the faithful to express their devotion, express gratitude for the graces achieved and renew their faith through prayers. Below, check out some options!

1. Prayer of consecration to Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Oh, Virgin of Mount Carmel, Mother of God and our Mother, I consecrate myself entirely to your Immaculate Heart. With confidence, I give you my life, my family, my works and everything I have and am. Accept me as your son and protect me under your maternal mantle. Always guide me in the paths of your Son Jesus, so that I may grow in holiness and love. Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for me now and at the hour of my death. Amen.

2. Prayer of thanks to Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Oh, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, I thank you for all the graces and blessings that, through your intercession, I received from God. Thank you for accompanying me on my journey, for protecting me in times of danger and for comforting me in times of distress.

I recognize your constant presence in my life and I thank you for your maternal love. Continue to guide me and intercede for me, so that I can live a life worthy of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

3. Prayer of request to Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Oh, Most Holy Virgin of Mount Carmel, Mother of God and our Mother, I come to you with humility and confidence to ask for your powerful intercession. You know my needs and concerns and, with faith, I ask for your help in this difficult time (place your order).

You, who are the Star of the Sea, guide me through the storms of life and lead me to the safe haven of love of your Son. Our Lady of Mount Carmel, intercede for me and grant me the grace I so desperately need, if it is God’s will. I trust in your power and your motherly love. Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us. Amen.

4. Prayer to obtain protection from Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Oh, Blessed and Immaculate Virgin Mary, honor and splendor of Carmel. You who look with special kindness on those who wear their blessed scapular. Look upon me kindly and cover me with the mantle of your motherly protection. Strengthen my weakness with your power. Illuminate the darkness of my spirit with your wisdom. Increase faith, hope and charity in me. Ornament my soul with the graces and virtues that make it pleasing to your divine Son. I watched myself throughout my life. Console me at the time of death with your kind presence. And present me to the Holy Trinity as your son and dedicated servant. And there in heaven I want to praise and bless you for all eternity. Amen.