Catholic sacramentals · Scapularies
Historical origin: Paris, 1840; Daughters of Charity.
What is and what is not
This object or practice belongs to the field of Catholic piety and must be understood from the general doctrine of the sacramentals. The sacramentals are sacred signs instituted by the Church who, by their prayer, prepare to receive grace and sanctify the circumstances of life. They do not confer grace in the same way as the seven sacraments and do not act automatically. Matter, color, or form have no magic power.
History
The so-called Green Scapular is related to Sister Justina Bisqueyburu, Daughter of Charity, and with private experiences started in Paris in 1840. Unlike the two-dipped scapulars, it is usually a single green piece with images of the Immaculate Heart and an invocation. It was extended as a prayer aid for conversion and trust. His account belongs to the field of private revelation: he adds nothing to the Gospel or forces the faithful.
Its development is inserted into a broader Christian history. From the first centuries, the faithful used the sign of the cross, blessings, water, oil, clothing, pilgrimage and images to keep alive the memory of Baptism and the communion of the saints. In the Middle Ages, the cofradies and reduced forms of religious habits grew; the Modern Age multiplied rituals, medals and sanctuary memories. The contemporary liturgical reform called for a review of these practices so that they lead to the liturgy, sprout from it and avoid superstitions.
Christian use and blessing
It can be blessed as a pious object. It does not force the conversion of another person or operate in secret as magic; prayer respects freedom and is accompanied by witness and charity.
The blessing must be done with a rite approved and by the competent minister. The faithful responds to that prayer by living the Gospel: faith, hope, charity, participation in the Eucharist, confession when necessary and works of mercy. A sacramental does not replace a medical consultation, a prudent decision or moral duty.
doctrinal sources for deepening
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1667-1679
- Code of Canon Law, 1166-1172
- Directory on popular piety and liturgy
