The spirituality of the scapular

[AngelicDoctor]

I have for some time felt an attraction to the Brown Scapular. I do have a devotion to our Lady–the Rosary, Angelus, etc. I do usually wear a miraculous medal.

However, I was always a little hesitant about the Scapular. I know that it is a sacramental that has been approved for centuries by the Church. However, I once read that one of the promises for those who wear the Scapular would be that, upon death, they would be released from purgatory on the Saturday after they died (am I just imagining having read this, or is this really one of the promises)?

Anyways, hearing of such a promise makes me uneasy. I understand devoting oneself to Mary as she is the perfect disciple of Christ and can aid us in our discipleship. However, when I hear of her granting promises that we would not otherwise have through Christ,… I get uneasy … or at least I** would like a clarification on the mariology at work here… is it Christocentric, in otherwords?**

Could anyone give me some insights on the spirituality of wearing the scapular? Thanks!

PS: I did see this website which is helpful:
carmelnet.org/scapular/brown/brown.htm

 

[Genesis315]

We know that the merits of Mary and the saints (as well as Christ) can be applied to those in Purgatory–this doctrine is called the “Treasury of Merit” and it is where indulgences are drwn from. As one Body, we can share in the merits of our brethren. Plus, Jesus would never decline a request from His mother–for one because she is His beloved and immaculate mother, but also because in Heaven her will is always aligned with His. Therefore, if she were to make such a promise, it would be with His approval.

Many mystics who have seen visions of Purgatory have seen Mary bringing the souls there refreshment. This could be literally true, or it could symbolically refelect how her intercessory prayers brings them relief.

 

[water]

I have for some time felt an attraction to the Brown Scapular. I do have a devotion to our Lady–the Rosary, Angelus, etc. I do usually wear a miraculous medal.

However, I was always a little hesitant about the Scapular. I know that it is a sacramental that has been approved for centuries by the Church. However, I once read that one of the promises for those who wear the Scapular would be that, upon death, they would be released from purgatory on the Saturday after they died (am I just imagining having read this, or is this really one of the promises)?

Anyways, hearing of such a promise makes me uneasy. I understand devoting oneself to Mary as she is the perfect disciple of Christ and can aid us in our discipleship. However, when I hear of her granting promises that we would not otherwise have through Christ,… I get uneasy … or at least I** would like a clarification on the mariology at work here… is it Christocentric, in otherwords?**

Could anyone give me some insights on the spirituality of wearing the scapular? Thanks!

PS: I did see this website which is helpful:
carmelnet.org/scapular/brown/brown.htm

From the link above, it says that:

*  follow Jesus like Mary:
* be open to God and to his will
* be guided by faith, hope, and love
* to pray at all times
* to discover God present in all that happens around us.

So, wearing the scapular won’t guarantee us anything, but wearing and following what Jesus teaches are what Virgin Mary emphasized.