Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mt Carmel

What it is. First of all, a scapular is part of the religious habits of many orders. It is a long strip of cloth, the width of the body, worn over the shoulders (scapula) from the ankles in front to the ankles in back. While a very practical garment it has come to represent the special consecration of the religious life.

By analogy to the scapulars of religious–garments worn over the shoulders during work to protect the religious habit, there are small scapulars that are derived from them which represent a particular devotion or spirituality, usually associated with a particular religious community or pious association. Such a scapular is two pieces of cloth (generally about an inch square), connected by cords and worn over the head, front and back. It often has a picture or a particular color, depending on the spirituality it stands for. The name “scapular” is a reference to being worn over the shoulders (scapula). 

The best known and most highly esteemed scapular, and the one most favored by the Church and by the Blessed Virgin in many of her apparitions, is the Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. It is adapted from the scapular of the Carmelite Order and represents a special Consecration to Our Lady under the title of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. Those who are invested with the Brown Scapular are simultaneously enrolled in the Confraternity of the Brown Scapular and oblige themselves to practice a special devotion to Our Lady, involving three commitments: 

• To wear the Brown Scapular continuously as a sign of one's consecration,
• To observe chastity according to one’s state in life, and,
• To pray the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary daily.

This last obligation, however, can be commuted to the saying of the Rosary (5 decades) by any priest, such as the priest who invests a person in the scapular. Since the Little Office is not commonly known today, this commutation is frequently given. 

Enrollment. The process of being invested with the scapular and enrolled in the Confraternity begins with acquiring a brown scapular. Since the Carmelite habit is made of wool so must the brown scapular. Since some people have a wool allergy, there is a scapular medal which may be worn in its place. The medal is not an option, however, but an accommodation for those with a wool allergy.

The scapular must then be blessed by a priest, whether with a simple blessing, a blessing from the Book of Blessings, or from the older Roman Ritual. After the first scapular “wears out” subsequent scapulars do not have to be blessed; rather, the blessing transfers, as it were. 

The Scapular is placed over the head of the recipient b the enrolling priest. Again, the formula of the "Book of Blessings" may be used, or a simple prayer to Mary may be recited (e.g. Hail Mary). The person is now both invested in the scapular and enrolled in the Confraternity of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel or Scapular Confraternity. No registration or notification of anyone is needed. 

While it used to be possible for lay persons to receive the indult from the Carmelites to invest others in the scapular, using a previously blessed scapular, this indult is no longer granted. Previously granted indults remain in effect, however.

Sabbatine Privilege. Associated with the Scapular is what is called Mary's Sabbatine Privilege, that "Those who die wearing this scapular shall not suffer eternal fire," and that they would “be released from Purgatory on the First Saturday after their death.” Although historical questions have been raised regarding these promises, they has been confirmed by multiple popes, and therefore may be relied upon. It must not, of course, be understood superstitiously or magically, but in light of Catholic teaching that perseverance in faith, hope and love are required for salvation. The scapular is a powerful reminder of this Christian obligation and entrustment of oneself to the Mother of the Lord for its fulfillment, and the eternal reward which the Lord has for his faithful ones.

The Brown Scapular can be obtained from most Catholic bookstores and religious goods outlets, including EWTN Religious Catalogue. EWTN will also send a free Brown Scapular to anyone who writes EWTN Viewer Response, 5817 Old Leeds Rd., Irondale, AL 35210. (Please, no email!)