The Diocese of Erie celebrated the feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on Saturday by telling people about the significance of the scapular.

“Today is the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel,” the diocese posted on Facebook. “On July 16, 1251, Mary gave the Brown Scapular to St. Simon Stock. Scapulars are worn by both laypeople, and those in religious orders, particularly Carmelites. The scapular is a sign of our belief that with the intercession of the Blessed Mother, we will have eternal life in heaven.” 

Mount Carmel is in northern Israel near the Fountain of Elijah, Franciscan Media says. 

Hermits lived there since the 12th century, and in the 13th century the group of hermits became known as the Brothers of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Legend has it, Franciscan Media adds, that Mary appeared before Carmelite leader St. Simon Stock, and gave him a scapular. Scapulars symbolize Mary's protection and encourage the wearer to devote himself to her. Scapulars also serve as a reminder of our call to prayer and penance, which Mary demonstrated throughout her life. 

Mary is the subject of many feast days throughout the year, according to the Marians. During May, Catholics celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima on May 13 and the Visitation on May 31. Other notable feast days include the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, which is celebrated on Jan. 1; the Annunciation, which is celebrated on March 25; Mary's Assumption into Heaven, which is celebrated on Aug. 15; and the Immaculate Conception, which is celebrated on Dec. 8. 

Mary holds a special position in Catholicism. As a human, she is included among those in need of God's saving, but as the Mother of God, she has received the gift of God's grace to an extent that surpasses all others, according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Mary demonstrated a willingness to cooperate with God's plan, and that cooperation places her in a crucial role in salvation. Catholics view Mary as a role model of discipleship and often ask for her intercession.