Catholic sacramentals · Scapularies
Historical origin: Latin Church, concession of Saint Pius X in 1910.
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 medalla- scapular was authorized by Saint Pius X in 1910 as a material replacement of certain fabric scapulars once the imposition was legitimately made. It must take on one side the Sacred Heart of Jesus and on the other the Virgin Mary. The concession responded to practical difficulties of climate, work and conservation, but did not turn a single medal into automatic access to all fraternities or all spiritual practices linked to different scapulars.
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
The medal replaces material support according to applicable rules; it does not replace preparation, imposition and spiritual commitment. A priest should be consulted in particular cases.
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
