was the most widely known and used. It is commonly called the Brown
Scapular, and is the oldest scapular in use.
How did we get the Brown Scapular?
In 1251, the Blessed Virgin Mary handed St. Simon Stock the brown woolen
scapular and she spoke these words to him:
This shall be a privilege for you and all Carmelites, that anyone dying
in this habit shall not suffer eternal fire …It shall be a sign of
salvation, a protection in danger, and a pledge of peace.
In time, the Church extended this privilege to all the laity who are willing to
be invested in the Brown Scapular of the Carmelites, and who perpetually
wear it.
What is the significance of the Brown Scapular?
The Brown Scapular is a special garment worn as a sign of love and
devotion to Mary, the Immaculate Queen. By wearing it, we make a silent
petition for the Blessed Mother’s continual assistance. We share in all the
prayers and good works of the Carmelite Scapular Confraternity throughout
the world. It is the sign of our consecration to the Immaculate Heart of
Mary.
th century the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
The Brown Scapular
What is the Scapular?
The Scapular worn by lay persons is a miniature version of the sleeveless
outer garment that is part of the habit worn for centuries by priests, monks
and nuns. It is worn over the shoulders, thus explaining how it got its name.
By the end of the 16