The Brown Scapular: History and Promise
The [Brown Scapular](/guides/brown-scapular-promise)
The Brown Scapular is one of the most popular sacramentals in the Catholic Church. It is a sign of consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and a powerful protection against the fires of hell.
The Vision
In 1251, Our Lady appeared to St. Simon Stock, the Prior General of the Carmelite Order, in Cambridge, England. She handed him a brown woolen scapular and said:
"Receive, my beloved son, this habit of thy order... Whosoever dies clothed in this shall not suffer eternal fire."
The Promise
This promise is not a "get out of jail free" card. It means that Mary will intercede for the person to receive the grace of final perseverance—meaning they will die in a state of grace (friendship with God) or will be given the grace of repentance before death.
The Sabbatine Privilege
There is a secondary tradition that Mary will descend into Purgatory on the Saturday after the wearer's death to release them. To obtain this, one must:
- Wear the scapular faithfully.
- Observed chastity according to one's state in life.
- Recite the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary (or the Rosary daily, if permitted by a priest).
Enrollment
Any priest can enroll you in the Brown Scapular. It involves a short blessing and the placing of the scapular over your shoulders. Once enrolled, you are a member of the Scapular Confraternity for life. If your scapular breaks, you just buy a new one—you don't need to be re-enrolled.
How to Wear It
It must be worn over the shoulders, with one part hanging in the front and one in the back. It is a silent prayer, a constant reminder that we belong to Mary.