The Power of the Scapular

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 12:46-50*

*First Reading - Zec 2:14-17*

*Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel*

*The Power of the Scapular*

*1) What is a Scapular?*

The word 'scapular' is derived from the Latin word 'scapula', or shoulder blade.

The scapular originated hundreds of years ago as two large pieces of cloth, attached at the shoulders by narrow strips, which covered the front and back of a monk's habit.

It was originally worn for the practical purpose of preserving the habit from dirt

So scapular is an instrument of protection

*2) Mother Mary and Scapular*

According to tradition, in the year 1251 a Carmelite superior general living in Cambridge, England, St. Simon Stock, was praying for heavenly intercession for his order, as the Carmelites were facing trials and oppression at the time.

On July 16th, 1251, he received a visit from Our Lady in answer to his prayers. 

When She handed over the Scapular, she communicated the following things 

*It is the special sign of my favor*

*He who dies clothed with this habit shall be preserved from eternal fire.*

*It is the badge of salvation*

*It is a shield in time of danger, and a pledge of special peace and protection*

This shows the importance and power of the Scapular

*3) Mother Mary always very active in our Life*

Every apparition of our Blessed Mother Shows that she is really concerned about us and She continuously intercedes for us

Our Lady of Mount Carmel is one of the finest example of Mother Mary protection to all of us 

Let's wear this scapular to protect us from all dangers and to live a holy life 

*4) My life Should become like a Scapular*

After wearing this scapular, our life should become like s scapular 

This means 

*My life Should be a sign favour to everyone*

*My life should help others to live a holy life and it should help to preserve life from eternal fire*

*My life should become a blade of salvation*

*My life should become  a shield in time of danger, and a pledge of special peace and protection.*

Am I ready for it?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*