The Power of the Scapular

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Saturday*

*The Power of the Scapular*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 22:46-50*

*FIRST READING - Zech 2:14-17*

*1) Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Scapular*

July 16, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, would be a good time to begin wearing the Brown Scapular again and to reflect about the importance of it 

Pope John Paul II, recalls how he wore his Scapular from about age 10.  When in May 1981 he was shot, he insisted doctors not remove his Scapular. 

Pope John Paul II says *Never leave home without it.*

John Paul II says  that “the most genuine form of devotion to the Most Holy Virgin, expressed by the humble sign of the Scapular, is the consecration to her Immaculate Heart.*

*2) The important Message of the Scapular*

*A) It shall be a sign of salvation*

This is what we read in the message given by our Blessed Mother, when she gave the Brown scapular to Simon Stock

So this scapular given by Our Blessed Mother works as a instrument of salvation. That is why one Should wear it 

*B) It is a instrument protection in danger*

It works as a instrument of protection especially from the snares of the Devil 

Protection from the desire for worldly things 

Protection from sin and destruction of our Spiritual life 

*C) It Works as a pledge of peace*

All of us desire peace and at times we work for peace 

By wearing this brown scapular of our Blessed Mother, a atmosphere is created to lead a peaceful life 

*D) Whosoever dies wearing this Scapular shall not suffer eternal fire*

This something very special to the Scapular

It works as a instrument to attain eternal life, by protecting us from the eternal Fire 

The above 4 things show us the power of the scapular, and the need of wearing it in our day today life  

*3) About Scapular - Some saying*

*“Many times we’re protected from the Evil One through the scapular.”*

*“The Scapular is such a symbol to the people of Mary’s guidance and protection,”*

*The very fact of a Scapular around one’s neck is a reminder Mary is present with us,”*

*The whole custom of wearing a brown Scapular brings us closer to devotion to Christ*

*4) Feast of the Scapular*

This feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, is also can be called as the Feast of the Scapular

As we celebrate this feast today, May this Holy instrument, help us to live a authentic Christian life and to become more close to Jesus, through our Blessed Mother.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*