On the occasion of the Day of the Virgin of Carmen, which is celebrated on July 16 every year, we are going to explore the meaning and history of the scapular of the Virgin of Carmen, also known as the Carmelite scapular.
What is a scapular
Traditional scapulars are very popular symbols of devotion and protection among the Catholic faithful. Each scapular is associated with prayers specifics, history and symbology.
Among the scapulars that arouse the most devotion among the faithful are the Carmelite Scapular or Scapular of the Virgin of Carmel, the Scapular of Saint Benedict and the Scapular of the Holy Trinity.
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Types of Scapulars
Before getting into the topic, it is important that we know that there are two types of scapulars: the monastic and the devotional.
Monastic
This scapular is a cloth garment worn over the shoulders and hanging in front and behind the person wearing it. It is a piece of clothing used by some monks, which is where its name comes from.
Among the best-known monastic scapulars are those used by the orders of Carmelite, Trinitarian, Mercedarian and Dominican monks.
What does the Monacal Scapular represent?
For monks it is a symbol of the yoke of Christ, indicating that they have agreed to lead a life dedicated to Christ, with the obligations, responsibilities and discipline that entails.
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am meek and lowly in heart; and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke it is easy, and my burden light."
Gospel of Matthew (11:29-30)
devotional
The devotional scapular is derived from the monastic one. The difference is that it is much smaller and is usually worn around the neck.
This is perhaps the one most of us are most familiar with. It consists of two pieces of fabric connected by a long ribbon. One of the pieces is worn in the front, and the other in the back.
What does it mean to wear a scapular?
Wearing a scapular is a way to express and make visible your spirituality. That a way of life has been adopted. Each scapular is usually associated with a specific devotion. Many worshipers believe that wearing a devotional scapular can provide spiritual protection, special benefits, and a deeper connection to spirituality.
Scapular of the Virgin of Carmen or Carmelite Scapular
The history of the Carmelite Scapular dates back to the 13th century, when the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Simon Stock, Prior General of the Order of Carmel, and gave him a scapular as a special sign of protection.
You can read here about the history, prayers and novenas to the Virgin of Carmen
Scapular design
Its characteristic color is brown – coffee for those of us who live in countries like Mexico – and it is made with two pieces of cloth.
One of the pieces has an embroidered image of the Virgin of Carmen, the other side usually has an embroidered image of the Sacred Heart, or some other religious symbol.
Saturday Privilege
The scapular of the Virgin of Carmen is known for its “Saturday privilege.” According to tradition, those who die with the Holy Scapular and expiate their sins in purgatory will be able to reach heaven as soon as possible, or at the latest, on the Saturday following the date of their death.
What do the colors of the scapular of the Virgin of Carmen mean?
Although the designs between scapulars may vary, we can find 4 colors that are almost always present:
- Brown: represents humility, penitence, simplicity and sacrifice.
- White: associated with light, purity, virtue and the Virgin Mary.
- Red: love, sacrifice, and ardor of faith.
- Blue: sky, divinity, and the mantle of the Virgin Mary.
The brown or coffee color is the predominant color in the Carmelite scapular. It is a color that is related to humility and simplicity. It is an earthy color that reflects the simple and austere life to which the Carmelites have committed themselves as a mendicant order.
Being related to penance and sacrifice, wearing it on the neck is a reminder of repentance for sins and acceptance of making sacrifices on a daily basis.
Finally, the Carmelite scapular is one of those considered “sacramental” by the Second Vatican Council. This means that it is one of the sacred signs approved by the Catholic Church to help faithful devotees live a full life of devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Let us know in the comments if you use scapulars, and if you would like us to write more about them.
Sources: Wikipedia
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