A founder figure

Yesterday was the Feast of St Brocard, a leading figure in the early history of the Carmelite Order, but unfortunately little is known for certain about him. It is believed that he was born in France. Brocard joined the monastic community on Mount Carmel, where his fervent devotion and leadership skills quickly gained recognition, leading to his appointment as the prior of his house. During his time as prior, around the year 1210, Brocard sought to establish a formal Rule for the community, which would provide a guiding framework for their religious life. Recognizing the need for an authoritative Rule, Brocard approached Saint Albert, the patriarch of Jerusalem at the time, requesting him to write one for the monks of Mount Carmel. Saint Albert, understanding the importance of this request, responded positively and composed a Rule that incorporated the core values and principles of the Carmelite way of life. This Rule became the foundation for the Carmelite Order and played a crucial role in shaping its distinct spirituality. However, when Brocard introduced the Rule to the wider Church, it faced opposition. Pope Honorius III objected to its use, as it had not received his prior approval. In response to this disagreement, an extraordinary event occurred. The Pope received a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who appeared to him in a dream and supported the rule and its implementation. Convinced by this divine revelation, Honorius granted his approval for the Rule of Saint Albert to be adopted by the Carmelites. Saint Brocard subsequently governed his Carmelite community on Mount Carmel for an impressive 35 years. His exemplary adherence to the Rule and unwavering commitment to the religious life earned him immense respect, not only from the members of his order but also from the surrounding Muslim population. He died peacefully in 1231 from natural causes, leaving behind a lasting legacy within the Carmelite Order. His dedication to the Rule of Saint Albert and its eventual approval by the Pope played a crucial role in establishing the Carmelites as an official religious order within the Catholic Church. His beatification occurred in 1564 when his name was added to the Carmelite breviary, officially recognizing his sanctity and inviting the faithful to seek his intercession. Through his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, Saint Brocard left an indelible mark on the Carmelite Order, shaping its spiritual charism and guiding generations of men and women toward a deeper union with God.