Wearing the Scapular: Spiritual Significance – Jul 16 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence

 

Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, Jul 16, 2024, on how Our Lady of Mount Carmel gave us the brown scapular and how wearing this symbolizes devotion to Mary and promises her protection and grace to those who sincerely strive to serve God, reminding us of our spiritual duties and the hope of salvation.

Jesus gave us Mary as our mother from the cross, and St. John took her into his home. Wearing the brown scapular shows our devotion to Mary and her promise of protection.

The scapular, two small pieces of cloth, symbolizes our desire for Mary’s help, not as a magical object but as a sign of our faith. This promise was made to St. Simon Stock and recorded in the 14th century, showing a long tradition of Marian devotion in the Carmelite Order.

Initially worn by monks and nuns, the scapular devotion spread to laypeople in the 15th century with the sabbatine privilege, which promises quick release from purgatory. The Holy Office in 1613 allowed preaching this privilege, highlighting Mary's intercession.

The scapular represents our commitment to follow God's commandments, pray daily, attend Mass, receive sacraments, and fulfill our duties. It’s a sign of seeking Mary’s protection and grace, giving us confidence in our spiritual journey.

Mary helps us receive grace and assures us of perseverance, encouraging us to be worthy children of God and shortening our purgatory.

00:00 – Introduction
00:09 – Mary as Our Mother
00:26 – Significance of the Scapular
01:32 – Promise to St. Simon Stock
02:45 – Historical Accuracy of Apparition
03:49 – Spread of Scapular Devotion
04:55 – Sabbatine Privilege
06:04 – Requirements and Practices
07:35 – Symbolism of the Scapular
08:26 – Scapular as Source of Grace

CCC 971 - Marian devotion supports worship of Christ - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/0971.htm
CCC 2677 - Prayer to Mary as intercessor - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/2677.htm

Ave Maria!

Mass: Our Lady of Mount Carmel - Opt Mem - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carmelites
Readings:  - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/071624.cfm
1st: zec 2:14-17
Resp: luk 1:45-55
Gsp: mat 12:46-50

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1109

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