Rooted in Mary’s care: Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Erie
By Allison Mosier07/09/2025
Nestled in the Grandview neighborhood of Erie, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church has long been a spiritual home for those seeking the guidance and protection of the Blessed Mother. Established in 1960, the church took its name from one of the most beloved titles of Mary: Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
This title has deep roots in Catholic tradition. It originates from Mount Carmel in the Holy Land, a place long associated with prayer and contemplation. In the 13th century, the Blessed Virgin is said to have appeared to Saint Simon Stock, a Carmelite friar, and entrusted him with the brown scapular. This simple garment became a powerful symbol of Mary’s protection and a call to live a life centered on Christ. Devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel has flourished ever since, and July 16, the day of her feast, remains a treasured date on the church’s calendar.
At Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Erie, this feast has always held special meaning. It is a day that draws the community together in prayer, gratitude and renewed devotion. Masses celebrated in honor of Our Lady invite the faithful to entrust their lives to her care and to seek her help in drawing closer to Jesus. In past years, parishioners have gathered for special liturgies, recited the rosary and participated in moments of reflection centered on Mary’s example of faith and trust in God.
The heart of this feast lies in Mary’s promise of spiritual protection. The scapular, often worn as a sign of devotion, reminds the faithful to turn to her in times of need and to strive for holiness in everyday life. At Our Lady of Mount Carmel, this message has shaped the identity of the parish from the beginning. Even through changes, the community has remained steadfast in its commitment to live under Mary’s mantle of love.
In 2024, the parish entered a new season when it became part of a shared community with St. Luke Parish. While leadership and operations now serve both locations, Our Lady of Mount Carmel continues to offer Masses and sacraments at its Grandview home. The spirit of devotion that has always marked the parish remains strong, especially as the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel approaches each July.
This feast is more than a commemoration of a historical event. It is a living celebration of Mary’s role in the life of the church and a reminder that she continues to walk with the faithful. For those at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Erie, it is a time to rejoice in her presence, renew their commitment to her Son and give thanks for the church that bears her name.
Below you will find a prayer card for the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel: 
-