The Scapular

Part of making First Holy Communion for most children is receiving the scapular, two pieces of brown or green cloth tied together with a band so that one hangs over the chest, and the other, over the back.  It's a mini-version of the larger scapular which resembles a two-sided apron which hangs in front and in back of the person wearing it.  In 1251, it  was given in a vision to St. Simon Stock, a Carmelite hermit on Mount Carmel, which rises above Haifa, Israel.  All Carmelites, male and female, wear it, as do many other religious in other congregations.   The scapular is an external sign of he filial relationship established between the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother and Queen of Mount Carmel, and the faithful who entrust themselves totally to her protection,  who have recourse to her maternal intercession, who are mindful of the primacy of the spiritual life and the need for prayer  (Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy, #205).  The scapular reminds the wearer of Mary's protective role as mother and the separation from noise and busyness  that silent contemplation demands.  It is also seen as a shield against the onslaughts of the Evil One through the glitter of "the world."  The view of the Mediterranean from Mount Carmel is breath-taking, and no wonder why, in addition to its role in the ministry of Elijah the Prophet, it was chosen as a place for contemplation. We might imagine ourselves on that mountain today, and ask Mary to help us find time for prayerful, quiet pondering of the significance of the scapular and her role as mother in our lives.
Bro. Rene