(c.1165-1265) Saint Simon from Aylesford, County Kent, England, lived as a hermit in a hollow trunk of an oak tree early in life. Later in life, he was the sixth General of the Carmelites and helped spread the order throughout England and Europe. Mary appeared to him and gave him (and us) the tradition of the brown scapular.

The saints turned to other saints for prayer and inspiration. The need for community and fellowship is constantly present in their stories. Living as they did inevitably leads to love and service. A burden shared is a burden lightened. Let us do that with and for others in our fellowship.

“O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity [mention your intention]. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me in this that thou art my Mother” (Saint Simon Stock, The Flower of Mount Carmel Prayer).

Reflection by Brad Farmer