The Green Scapular
In addition to the Miraculous Medal, the Virgin Mary chose to use St. Vincent de Paul’s Daughters of Charity to reveal a second great sacramental: the Green Scapular. Mary appeared to Sister Justine Bisqueyburu in Paris, France, on Jan. 28, 1840. Actually the fifth of a series of apparitions, Justine was given the design of a new scapular. Sr. Justine was hesitant at first, but eventually revealed the devotion to her Spiritual Director Fr. Aladel (who was also the director of St. Catherine Laboure of the Miraculous Medal). After much delay, the scapulars were produced and distributed with many conversions and cures following.
The Green Scapular emphasized the theme of Mary’s Immaculate Conception. Pope Pius IX twice strongly
recommended its promotion and use.
Practices
1. Wear or carry the scapular.
2. To help another, place it in their vicinity.
3. Pray, at least daily: “Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us now and at the hour of our death.”
4. The prayer should be said for oneself and separately for each person to whom it has been given
(unless they pray themselves).
5. No enrollment of any kind is necessary, but each scapular should be blessed by a priest
(general blessing of sacramentals).
6. Have confidence in the effects of the scapular: “The greatest graces come from using the scapular but these graces come in direct proportion to the degree of confidence in me which the user has.”
Promises and Benefits
1. Conversion of those who do not have the faith.
2. Reconciliation to the Church for those who have lost/strayed from the faith.
3. Assurance of a happy death.
4. Strengthening of the faith for those already in the Church.
5. Protection from Satan for those who wear or promote the scapular.