On 15 August, we celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a feast of profound hope and one with a special place in the life and spirituality of Carmel.

In Mary’s Assumption we celebrate our belief that, at the end of her earthly life, she was taken body and soul into the glory of heaven. Her Assumption points towards the promise held out to all who belong to Christ: that death does not have the final word and that we are called to share in the fullness of resurrection life.

Today’s Gospel takes us to Mary’s visit to Elizabeth. Carrying Christ within her, Mary goes “with haste” to be with her cousin. Elizabeth recognises her faith:

“Blessed is she who believed” (Lk 1:45).

Mary responds with her great song of praise, the Magnificat:

“The Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.” (Lk 1:49)

For Carmelites, Mary is Mother, Sister and model of the contemplative life. She listens to God’s Word, receives it within herself and allows it to shape her life. Yet contemplation leads her outward: carrying Christ, she goes to Elizabeth in loving service.

St Titus Brandsma reminds us that this is also our calling:

“We too must accept God in our hearts, carry him in our hearts, nourish him and make him grow in us.”

On this great feast, may Mary, Mother and Sister of Carmel, strengthen our hope and teach us to listen, to trust and to carry Christ into the lives of others.

May we, like Mary, breathe God’s Word into every moment of life.