Considering Scapulars... Some Questions

[Insomniac]

Hello!

For some time now I have been thinking about becoming enrolled in a scapular. However, I have a few reservations, as well as a few questions. For one thing, perhaps I am seeking this out for the wrong reasons. Hopefully you can help me.

I think that a feeling of distinction is something that I desire… like a Jewish male who faithfully wears his yarmulke, or the Muslim female with her headscarve… beyond its sacramental benefits, I think that a scapular would help to be a constant reminder of our Faith in my daily life. It would be something that would remind me that I am not just another carbon-copy of a person in this secular society.

However, this leads me to my primary concern, which is that of spiritual pride (which is something that I struggle with anyways). I fear that by wearing a scapular (even if it is concealed under my clothing) I will feel spiritually superior to those who do not utilize this sacramental. And if it is somehow brought up in conversation, I fear that it will just be a spiritual ego stroke than a chance to witness to the Truth.

I understand that the Brown Scapular involves a devotion to Mary. As one of the greater challenges in my life is maintaining chastity, perhaps this would be another opportunity to recieve extra aid in this regard.

And, of course, at the end of my life, I’m sure that I would greatly appreciate the Sabbatine Privilege!

These are my reasons for wanting to pursue enrollment. I do not know if this are worthy reasons, etc… so please comment on them.

Additionally, a few questions (assuming I ultimately decide upon enrolling):

-I know that there are many different kinds of scapulars. What are all the kinds, and how can I find the right one for me? Admittedly, one can wear more than one, but I’d prefer to add the required devotions into my life more gradually if I wish to enroll in more than one.

-Where can I actually obtain a scapular?

-How do I arrange the initial blessing so that I may be enrolled?

-Beyond the required devotions, what are the responsibilites of a scapular-wearer?

Thank you all very much for you time and help!

 

[Dorothy]

<<-Where can I actually obtain a scapular?>>

They can be ordered from Catholic catalogs or purchased at a Catholic store.

<<-How do I arrange the initial blessing so that I may be enrolled?>>

Tell your parish priest you wish to be enrolled, and he will find the proper prayer in his book.

<<-Beyond the required devotions, what are the responsibilites of a scapular-wearer?>>

To try to be more mindful of God’s presence in your day, and a desire to please Him.

 

[Windmill]

This is my favorite scapular:

Best Brown Scapular

 

[RobNY]

Hello!

For some time now I have been thinking about becoming enrolled in a scapular. However, I have a few reservations, as well as a few questions. For one thing, perhaps I am seeking this out for the wrong reasons. Hopefully you can help me.

Sure thing.

I think that a feeling of distinction is something that I desire… like a Jewish male who faithfully wears his yarmulke, or the Muslim female with her headscarve… beyond its sacramental benefits, I think that a scapular would help to be a constant reminder of our Faith in my daily life. It would be something that would remind me that I am not just another carbon-copy of a person in this secular society.

Signs are beautiful things which our society doesn’t appreciate.

However, this leads me to my primary concern, which is that of spiritual pride (which is something that I struggle with anyways). I fear that by wearing a scapular (even if it is concealed under my clothing) I will feel spiritually superior to those who do not utilize this sacramental. And if it is somehow brought up in conversation, I fear that it will just be a spiritual ego stroke than a chance to witness to the Truth.

Pray for humility. Our Lady is the exemplar of humility. I’m sure she has some to spare for you.

I understand that the Brown Scapular involves a devotion to Mary. As one of the greater challenges in my life is maintaining chastity, perhaps this would be another opportunity to recieve extra aid in this regard.

Most definitely. Besides humility, our Lady is most associated with purity. Pray constantly to her for purity. I do. Most importantly along with this-- give up not only the sin, but the sinful affection. I’m not saying you haven’t-- I don’t know. But if you haven’t, you’re only doing part of the job. If you give up the sinful affection, or if you can’t, pray to Mary that you can, then you’ll have sin conquered in no time.

And, of course, at the end of my life, I’m sure that I would greatly appreciate the Sabbatine Privilege!

Surely. Praying the rosary daily is worth it even without the Sabbatine Privilege. As a second note, if you’re going to pray the rosary daily, then you more than meet the requirements to join the Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary. Anyone who is a member who prays the complete rosary in a week obtains the special spiritual benefit of the prayers of ALL of the other members of the Confraternity. I recommend this highly.

These are my reasons for wanting to pursue enrollment. I do not know if this are worthy reasons, etc… so please comment on them.

The best reason to do anything is love of God. Few of us start with such pure motives. God will take your motives, that is, for reward (which are acceptable motives!), and if you allow His grace to transform you, He will transform your motives into as much purity as you let Him. This is why God offers us rewards-- to start us on the right path. Once on the right path, that is when we learn to love.

-I know that there are many different kinds of scapulars. What are all the kinds, and how can I find the right one for me? Admittedly, one can wear more than one, but I’d prefer to add the required devotions into my life more gradually if I wish to enroll in more than one.

I wear the Brown Scapular. I prefer it. It has the greatest promises attached to it.

-Where can I actually obtain a scapular?

Buy a good scapular online. Don’t skimp on it and buy the ultra cheap one with the plastic. If you have to spend a couple dollars, buy one that will last. Trust me. The one windmill linked to is the best, it’s the one I have. But… look around on the 'net for a cheaper price.

-How do I arrange the initial blessing so that I may be enrolled?

Talk to your priest. He can bless it.

-Beyond the required devotions, what are the responsibilites of a scapular-wearer?

I don’t know of any obligations, besides wearing the Scapular. You *should *cultivate a devotion to Mary. The rosary is ideal. I do believe that the Sabbatine Privilege necessitates praying the daily rosary. And of course, kill two birds with one stone and join the Confraternity! Always strive for holiness.

EDIT: Read Fr. William Most’s article on the Brown Scapular. It’s my favorite.