Was my scapular enrolment valid?

[mndatabs]

I just got my scapular blessed today by a priest but he didn’t say the official prayers from the enrolment formula. What he said was shorter and something like: “May you be able to benefit from the promises of Mary with this scapular” and some other stuff including “In the name of the father, son and the Holy Spirit.” I read on some past forums that something similar to the above is valid but I am not sure. Is my blessing a valid enrolment?

 

[GioG12]

Welcome to CAF @mndatabs !

Maybe @carmelitequotes can answer this? If not, try to talk to a Carmelite priest or maybe just a normal priest.

 

[mndatabs]

Thank you! I’ll try them out. If anyone else has any insight on this, it would be greatly appreciated!

 

[mndatabs]

I’m sorry! I’m a new user. Is there any way that I can private message them or do I have to just type out their username in a reply like you did?

 

[BartholomewB]

Is there any way that I can private message them

First, click on their avatar and then on the blue rectangle marked “Message.” If it’s a member who has blocked access to their profile, it’s a bit more complicated but you can still do it.

 

[mndatabs]

Yh I think they are blocked. Thanks anyways! Do you have any idea about my scapular though?

 

[GioG12]

@carmelitequotes can respond to this thread because I already called his/her attention by typing his/her username.

 

[mndatabs]

Thank you very much!

 

[BartholomewB]

Do you have any idea about my scapular though?

Sorry, no, I don’t, but there are several CAFers who are very well informed about these matters. You’ll get your answer. Don’t worry!

 

[TK421]

I just got my scapular blessed today by a priest but he didn’t say the official prayers from the enrolment formula. What he said was shorter and something like: “May you be able to benefit from the promises of Mary with this scapular” and some other stuff including “In the name of the father, son and the Holy Spirit.” I read on some past forums that something similar to the above is valid but I am not sure. Is my blessing a valid enrolment?

“Valid” and “invalid” doesn’t apply to devotions (sacramentals), but if you want to follow the formula precisely you can always go again to another ordained minister.

Peace.

 

[Tis_Bearself]

“Valid” and “invalid” doesn’t apply to devotions (sacramentals), but if you want to follow the formula precisely you can always go again to another ordained minister.

This is correct.
I think based on the discussion I just had with carmelitequotes, that there is a difference between being enrolled in the Brown Scapular (which you may have been) vs. being enrolled in the Scapular Confraternity (which doesn’t sound like you were), but carmelitequotes knows better than me and can explain to you.

 

[carmelitequotes]

Is my blessing a valid enrolment?

Welcome, @mndatabs I hope the following is helpful to you and others. Benedicamus Domino!

Here is a simple way to describe the relation of the lay faithful to the scapular:

1. Devotion to the Scapular of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel
2. Enrollment in the Scapular of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel
3. Reception into the Confraternity of the Scapular of Carmel

But let’s first understand the Brown Scapular as a sign and a pledge. I highly recommend this wonderful video by Fr Nicholas Blackwell, O.Carm., who discusses The Brown Scapular & Our Mother’s Embrace.

Devotion to the Brown Scapular for many of the faithful occurs when they seek to obtain a blessed Brown Scapular and begin to wear it faithfully as part of their devotion to our Blessed Mother. As Father Kieran Kavanaugh, OCD wrote, the scapular is a “sign of belonging to Mary; a pledge of her motherly protection, not only in this life but after death.”

Enrollment in the Scapular of the Blessed Virgin “implies affiliation to the Carmelite Family.” The rite of enrollment explains further:

This Scapular is a sign of communion with the Order of the Brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel dedicated to the service of our Lady for the good of the whole Church. With this Scapular you express the desire to take part in the spirit and life of the Order.

• You can view the complete rite of enrollment here. There are two formulas suggested for enrollment. No matter which formula the presider chooses to use, "the spiritual meaning of the graces attached to the Scapular of our Lady of Mount Carmel [should] be expressed, as also the obligations assumed through this sign of devotion to the holy Virgin."

Reception into the Confraternity of the Scapular of Carmel is the ‘next step’ for those who wish to enter more fully into the life of the Carmelite Order and follow the way of perfection. The Carmelite Order’s Scapular Confraternity website explains:

The Scapular Confraternity of Carmel is an association of the faithful who strive for the perfection of charity in the world in the spirit of the Carmelite Order. Through their free commitment, they participate in the life of the Order and its spiritual benefits in an intimate communion of thought, ideals and works, together with Mary.

If you or anyone has questions about Carmel, its devotions, and its saints, never hesitate to mention me and ask!

NDMC, OPN

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[mndatabs]

Thank you so so much for the clear and detailed answer! With this, I can prepare for a proper enrolment with a Carmelite priest once the pandemic clears up. Cheers!!!