Fr. Jeffrey Kirby, STD. A Journey to Mount Carmel: A Nine-Day Preparation for Investiture in the Brown Scapular of Our Lady. Manchester, NH: Sophia Institute Press, 2022. Paperback. $17.95. 192 pages. Available from the publisher.
“Whosoever shall die wearing it [the scapular] shall not suffer everlasting fire.” (Our Lady of Mt. Carmel’s words to St. Simon Stock)
Mary is a Lady-Warrior in the fight against the enemy and a champion for your salvation. As the first and greatest disciple, the Blessed Mother is our model in faith and intercedes for us. This portable retreat is a nine day novena to help you renew and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus through Mary and prepare you to receive the Brown Scapular of Our Lady.
In A Journey to Mount Carmel: A Nine-Day Preparation for Investiture in the Brown Scapular of Our Lady, Fr. Jeffrey Kirby, STD attests that the scapular is not a good luck charm, but a powerful witness to ‘put on Christ.’ Readers will understand the sacrament of Baptism like never before, how the Holy Spirit is busy at work in their lives, and their call as children of God.
Fr. Kirby relates the importance of Our Lady’s intercession for holiness. “The Brown Scapular is not jewelry, religious sentimentality, or a misplaced act of superstition. The scapular, which is a simple collection of two pieces of cloth, is a declaration that you have put on Christ and seek to follow his way in imitation of Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel.”
Each chapter unpacks our baptismal promises and call to imitate Our Lady through three sections:
- Preparation – opening prayers and goals
- Teachings – a compelling real-world story, catechesis, Marian connection, and reflection questions
- Optional Spiritual Exercises – short Ignatian meditation, Stations of the Cross and Rosary meditations, examination of conscience, and traditional prayers
Let Mary help you “fan into flame” your baptismal graces. When we take refuge in the arms of Our Lady, she teaches us to cherish the Christ Child within our souls and caress Him with her love. Wear the scapular and give one to your family members and loved ones to wear. This book will help you wear the scapular with devotion and confidence in your Heavenly Mother.
Reviewers reflected that Fr. Kirby’s writing is: “Simple and direct, but full of wisdom and clarity.” “Insightful, thought provoking, engaging, and spiritually uplifting!”
Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of A Journey to Mount Carmel, and/or to schedule an interview.
