Saint Simon Stock was a thirteenth-century English Carmelite who served as prior general of the Carmelite Order, guiding its growth across Europe and its adaptation to life as a mendicant order in the great university cities. According to Carmelite tradition, Our Lady appeared to him and gave him the Brown Scapular as a sign of her protection. He died in Bordeaux, France, on May 16, 1265.
Simon lived a hidden, prayerful life for many years before being called to lead others, and he trusted Mary's motherly care in every trial. His example reminds us that quiet faithfulness and devotion to Our Lady can carry us through seasons of change and sorrow.
Saint Simon Stock, who rested all your hope in the tender care of Mary, pray that we and those we love may be wrapped in her mantle and led safely home to her Son. Amen.