Feast of St Elijah

"With zeal I am zealous for the Lord God of hosts." 1 Kings 19:10
July 20 is the Feast of St Elijah in the Carmelite calendar. This is a major feast for all Carmelites since Elijah is considered the founder of the order.

"For those first Carmelites, and for their successors throughout the centuries, Elijah was truly their leader and father, and the image of this life can be seen clearly in theirs." ~ from Journey to Carith: The Sources and Story of the Discalced Carmelites by Peter-Thomas Rohrbach

Let's pray for zeal for the Lord and a greater outpouring of the spirit of prophecy on this feast.

Intercessions from today's morning prayer:
God our Father spoke in former days through the prophets, but today he speaks to us in his Son, through whom he wishes the whole world to be joined to him. Let us humbly pray: R: Lord, draw us to yourself.
Lord, you revealed yourself to the prophet Elijah in silence and solitude;
--- help us to put aside all that prevents us from hearing your voice, so that we may seek and find you. R:
When he was thirsty, you gave Elijah refreshing water at the torrent of Karith;
--- may we drink at the living springs of love and contemplation. R:
As he walked to Mount Horeb, you filled Elijah with strength;
--- may we who are strengthened by the Body and Blood of Christ press on unwearied in our journey to you. R:
Lord, you revealed yourself to Elijah in the whisper of a gentle breeze;
--- in attentive silence and with an obedient spirit may we receive every inspiration of the Holy Spirit. R:
Lord, you raised up Elijah like a fire and made him zealous for your glory;
--- may we too burn with the fire of your love, to serve the Church and our brethren in all our work. R: