A reader writes:
Are scapulars solely for Catholics? Also, what are the requirements/requests associated with the Saint Michael the Archangel scapular?
The wearing of scapulars has become much less common in recent years, but as the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (July 16) approaches, now is a good time to take a closer look at this venerable Catholic practice. But first, what is a scapular?
A scapular is composed of two small pieces of fabric, an inch or two square, connected by strings or flat pieces of fabric. It is a miniature version of a part of the monastic habit, from which it takes its name.
There are many different scapulars, but the most famous is the Brown Scapular--the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. According to tradition, it was given to St. Simon Stock on July 16, 1251 (hence, the date of the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel). Pious tradition holds that those who wear the scapular faithfully, while practicing devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, will be granted the grace of final perseverance and will, through Saint Mary's intercession, be released from Purgatory early.
While the wearing of the Brown Scapular (and all other scapulars) is a Catholic practice, there's nothing to prevent a non-Catholic Christian from adopting the practice, so long as he believes in what the scapular represents and faithfully carries out any requirements of the devotion. Non-Catholics (and Catholics as well), however, need to understand that any promises that are attached to the wearing of a scapular are not some sort of magic. Rather, the scapular itself is an external sign of the faith of the wearer, and it is that faith, rather than the physical scapular, that saves.
As for the specific practice of the Scapular of Saint Michael the Archangel, there is a ritual that a priest performs to enroll the wearer. While each parish should have a copy of the Book of Blessings in which the ritual appears, copies of the ritual are usually included with the scapular. Devotion to Saint Michael strengthens us against the temptations of demons.
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