Monday, July 16, 2018, 12:15 PM
Our Lady is a Mother, and so it’s not surprising that she has provided her children with clothing for their benefit and protection. This is the Marian devotion known as the “Brown Scapular”, which is associated with a liturgical celebration for this week: Our Lady of Mount Carmel on July 16.
What is Mount Carmel?
Mount Carmel refers to a mountainous area in northern Israel (and has nothing to do with the sweet treat we know and love). This was the site of the confrontation between the Prophet Elijah and the priests of Baal in the Book of Kings. In the time after Christ, hermits lived there, who had a special chapel for Our Lady and became known as the “Brothers of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.” This is the foundation of the Carmelite Order that continues to this day, and that has included Saints and Blesseds in its ranks: St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and others. The Order of Carmel is characterized by its contemplative charism and devotion to Our Lady.
The Brown Scapular
According to tradition, Our Lady appeared to an English Carmelite, St. Simon Stock, and gave him a brown woolen scapular (two pieces of cloth joined at the top and worn over the shoulders), saying, “This shall be a privilege for you and all Carmelites, that anyone dying in this habit shall not suffer eternal fire.” Over time, the Church has extended the Brown Scapular (in a simplified form) to all Christians who wish to be invested in it. The Scapular is a keepsake of Our Lady; it is a tangible reminder of Our Lady’s special care for us, and a continual silent prayer which we offer through her to her Son.
Be Invested in the Scapular
Scapulars will be handed out at the 12:15 PM Mass on Monday, July 16, and the special prayers for investment offered for anyone who wishes to be enrolled. For those who wear this holy garment, Our Lady requests the following conditions:
1. Wear the Brown Scapular continuously.
2. Observe chastity according to your state in life (married/single).
3. Pray the Rosary daily or recite the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin.
