I intentionally visited the Adoration chapel after our first daily Mass during CoVid 19 on May 11, 2020 seeking guidance from Our Lady. Little did I know that she would reveal how she has clothed me in her grace through the Brown Scapular during these uncertain times.
In an article published by SpiritualDirection.com the Carmelite Sisters state: Anyone who chooses to be enrolled in the Confraternity of the Brown Scapular identifies themselves with the mission of the Carmelite Order to be in the world a prophetic sign of union with God, that is to ‘stand in the presence of God’ as a witness to his mercy in communion with our brothers and sisters.
Mary leads us on this journey to her Son.
The title ‘Queen of Peace’ delicately scrolled in gold invites adorers to enter through the arched doorway into our chapel. As I listened to the cadence of the recited Rosary in the sanctuary, I looked at Christ and He poured his love into my heart. Depicted in the two stain-glassed windows, St. Therese of Lisieux gazed upon us from behind and the Holy Family at the birth of Jesus came to life as Fr. Jess led the 3rd Joyful Mystery. I love how Fr. Jess emphasizes
“And blessed is the FRUIT of thy womb, Jesus….”.
“You are right in front of me,” I thought.
Recently, I’ve met the Carmelite saints Teresa of Avila, Therese of Lisieux and Teresa Benedicta of the Cross. Edith Stein (Teresa Benedicta of the Cross) journeyed to the way of Carmel through the ‘Queen of Peace’ Church in Cologne, Germany. I discovered through studies with my friends Dr. Elizabeth Mitchell and Claire Dwyer that I share commonalities with Edith Stein. Our family lived in Hamburg, Germany the same place she lived with her sister before her conversion and we both have been drawn into a deeper life of contemplation in sanctuaries named ‘Queen of Peace’.
Until this morning in May, I didn’t clearly understand why I enrolled in the Confraternity of the Brown Scapular.
By desiring to trust Mary through the scapular, the Rosary, and Adoration, I perceive that she is actively pursuing me. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel takes me on journeys with saints, brothers and sisters who ‘stand in the presence of God’ as witness to His Mercy that lead me to her Son especially during these uncertain times.
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This Church is beautiful! Where is it?