Joshua Bennett
The necklaces worn by Catholics are called scapulars. They are devotional objects of popular piety, worn by Catholics to show their pledge to a confraternity, a saint, or a way of life, as well as reminding the wearer of that promise. They are usually made of two rectangular pieces of cloth, wool or other fabric that are connected by bands. One rectangle hangs over the chest of the wearer, while the other rests on the back, with the bands running over the shoulders. They can also be made of gold, sterling silver, and yellow bronze.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Scapular |
| Description | Two rectangular pieces of cloth, wool or other fabric connected by bands. One rectangle hangs over the chest, while the other rests on the back, with the bands running over the shoulders. |
| Purpose | To show the wearer's pledge to a confraternity, a saint, or a way of life, as well as reminding the wearer of that promise. |
| History | The scapular emerged from an apron-like piece of cloth worn by monks in the 7th century. By the 13th century, the brown scapular was associated with the Carmelite Order. |
| Variations | The Green Scapular, Scapular of the Holy Face, Blue Scapular of the Immaculate Conception, Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Scapular of Our Lady of Walsingham |
| Other Catholic Jewellery | Patron saint medals, rosary, crucifix or cross |
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What You'll Learn
The scapular: a symbol of salvation
The scapular is a Catholic necklace that holds deep significance for those who wear it. It is a symbol of salvation, a reminder of the wearer's devotion to their faith and their relationship with God and the saints. The necklace consists of two rectangular pieces of cloth or metal, connected by bands, with one rectangle hanging over the chest and the other resting on the back.
The origins of the scapular can be traced back to the Middle Ages when monks wore it as a protective covering during manual labour. The word scapular comes from the Latin 'scapula', meaning shoulder blade. Over time, the scapular evolved into a smaller, necklace-shaped cloth, typically about 24 inches in length. It is often made of wool, with small blocks of engraved wool material at each end, meant to slip over the head and hang down the back and front.
The most well-known and popular type of scapular is the Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. According to legend, on July 16, 1251, the Blessed Mother appeared to a man named Simon and gave him the brown scapular, saying: "Receive, most beloved son, the scapular of thy Order, a sign of my confraternity... behold the sign of salvation, a safeguard in danger, the covenant of peace and everlasting alliance." This legend has been a source of devotion for many Catholics, who view the brown scapular as a symbol of salvation and a safeguard against eternal fire.
The wearing of a devotional scapular has been described as a constant meditation or reminder of our call to emulate Christ. It signifies being clothed in the garments of Salvation and offers a tangible connection to one's faith. For some, it represents a pledge to a confraternity, a saint, or a way of life, serving as a reminder of that promise. The image or message on the scapular usually reflects the order's focus, tradition, or favoured devotion.
In addition to the Brown Scapular, there are various other types of scapulars recognised by the Roman Catholic Church, including the Green Scapular, instituted for the conversion of those without faith, and the Blue Scapular of the Immaculate Conception, which relates to Marian devotions and consecrations. Scapulars are not limited to Catholics, as they can also be found in Protestant churches such as Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, and Presbyterian denominations.
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The rosary: a powerful prayer tool
The rosary is a powerful prayer tool for Catholics. While most Catholics do not consider it a form of jewellery, some choose to wear it as a necklace to display their faith or to always keep it close for prayer. The rosary is more than just a set of prayer beads—it is a means to connect with God and meditate on the life of Jesus and the mysteries of the faith.
The rosary is made up of prayer beads that are used to recite prayers in a specific order. These prayers centre on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and repeating them helps to create a meditative state. The practice of using the rosary as a prayer tool can be traced back to the early days of Christianity, when monks and hermits would recite a specific number of prayers on a string of knots or beads. Today, keeping a rosary close by can serve as a reminder to pray and stay focused on God throughout the day.
The rosary is often mentioned in tandem with the scapular, another important symbol in the Catholic faith. The Brown Scapular, also known as the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, is a popular devotion in the Catholic Church. It consists of two rectangular pieces of cloth or metal connected by bands, with one rectangle hanging over the chest and the other resting on the back. The Brown Scapular is believed to have originated in the 13th century, when the Blessed Mother appeared to a man named Simon and gave him the scapular, promising that those who died wearing it would not suffer eternal fire.
Wearing the scapular is a symbol of devotion to the Blessed Mother and, through her, to Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder to emulate Christ in our daily lives and to deepen our connection to Mary, seeking her intercession in our prayers. The scapular is also seen as a symbol of grace and an invitation to reflect the virtues that Mary embodied in her devotion to her son. Both the rosary and the scapular are powerful tools that aid Catholics in their spiritual journey and deepen their connection to God and the saints.
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The crucifix: a symbol of Jesus' sacrifice
The crucifix is a powerful symbol of Jesus Christ's sacrifice for humanity. It represents the suffering and death of Jesus on the cross, reminding Catholics of his profound love for all people and the importance of self-sacrifice. The crucifix is a popular form of Catholic jewellery, often worn as a necklace, and serves as a constant reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and God's boundless love and grace.
The crucifix is an important symbol in the Catholic Church, and wearing it as jewellery is a way for Catholics to express their faith and devotion. It is a visual representation of the central event in Christian theology, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. By wearing a crucifix, Catholics can keep this pivotal moment at the forefront of their minds, reflecting on Jesus' self-sacrifice and the redemption it brought to humanity.
The crucifix is also a reminder of Jesus' suffering and the endurance of pain for the sake of others. This symbol encourages Catholics to embody selflessness and emulate Christ's example of putting others before himself. The crucifix, therefore, serves as a call to action, urging followers to live out their faith through acts of self-sacrifice and love for their neighbours.
In addition to being a symbol of Jesus' sacrifice, the crucifix also represents the promise of salvation. It signifies the belief that through Jesus' death and resurrection, humanity has the opportunity for eternal life. Thus, the crucifix is a sign of hope and a reminder of the promise of redemption and eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
For Catholics, wearing a crucifix necklace is more than just a fashion choice or an accessory. It is an outward expression of their faith and a reminder of their relationship with God. The crucifix necklace serves as a tangible connection to their spiritual beliefs, providing comfort and encouragement in their daily lives. It is a symbol that unifies Catholics worldwide and strengthens their bond with their religious community.
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Patron saint medals: a symbol of protection
For centuries, patron saint medals have been worn by Catholics as a symbol of protection and a way to show their devotion to their faith. These medals are not just accessories, but meaningful symbols of the wearer's relationship with God and the saints. Catholics wear religious jewellery, including patron saint medals, as a way to express their faith and seek the intercession of their patron saints.
Each patron saint is associated with a specific area of life, such as health, work, or relationships. By wearing a patron saint medal, individuals invoke the saint's intercession in their lives. For example, someone facing health issues may wear a St. Jude medal, while someone seeking employment may choose a St. Joseph medal. Others may wear a medal associated with their favourite saint or as a Sacramental connection.
Patron saint medals are believed to offer protection from harm and evil. The medal serves as a reminder that the saint is watching over the wearer, providing guidance and protection. This belief is deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, with the saints seen as intermediaries between God and humanity. The medals are often worn as necklaces, close to the heart, as a constant reminder of the saint's presence and protection.
The scapular, another popular form of Catholic jewellery, is also seen as a symbol of protection. The Brown Scapular, for instance, is believed to protect the wearer from eternal fire, serving as "a safeguard in danger". The scapular, consisting of two rectangular pieces of cloth or metal connected by bands, is meant to be worn over the head with one rectangle on the chest and the other on the back. It represents being clothed in the garments of Salvation, signifying the wearer's devotion to God and Mary.
Overall, patron saint medals and other forms of Catholic jewellery, such as the scapular, hold significant meaning for Catholics. They serve as tangible reminders of their faith, providing comfort, protection, and a deeper connection to the saints and God.
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The history of the brown scapular
The brown scapular, one of the most recognizable symbols of Catholic devotion, has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. Also known as the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, it is associated with the Carmelite Order and holds significant meaning for those who wear it.
The tradition of the brown scapular originated from a vision experienced by an English Carmelite, Saint Simon Stock, in the year 1251. In his vision, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to him and presented the scapular, a garment resembling a long, wide apron, typically made of wool or cloth. The Virgin Mary promised protection and salvation to those who faithfully wear the scapular and live a life of piety and virtue.
The brown color of the scapular is emblematic of the Carmelite habit, which is the traditional clothing worn by members of the Carmelite Order. The scapular itself consists of two rectangular pieces of cloth connected by straps and is worn over the shoulders, with one panel of cloth resting on the chest and the other on the back. Traditionally, the brown scapular is made from wool, symbolizing the simplicity and humility associated with the Carmelite Order.
Over time, the brown scapular became widely popular among Catholics, not just within the Carmelite Order. It is seen as a sign of devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and a commitment to living a virtuous life. Those who wear the brown scapular are believed to be under the special protection of the Virgin Mary and are encouraged to live according to the virtues of chastity and obedience.
The brown scapular has also been associated with several miracles and stories of protection throughout history. One well-known story is that of the 17th-century Polish nobleman, Jakub Woyna, who was saved from a fatal fall from his horse due to wearing the brown scapular. His story and others like it have contributed to the widespread devotion and belief in the protective power of the scapular.
Today, the brown scapular continues to be an important symbol of Catholic devotion, reminding wearers of their commitment to Mary and their pursuit of a holy life. While the garment has evolved slightly over the centuries, its fundamental design and significance remain unchanged. The brown scapular serves as a tangible reminder of the wearer's faith and their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
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Frequently asked questions
Catholic necklaces are called scapulars.
Scapulars are typically made of two rectangular pieces of cloth, wool or other fabric that are connected by bands. Metal scapulars are also permitted for those with wool allergies or sensitivities.
Scapulars are worn by Catholics to show their devotion to their faith and to seek the intercession of their patron saints. They are also worn as a reminder of the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made for humanity.
The most popular scapular is the Brown Scapular of the Carmelite Order, also known as the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Other popular scapulars include the Green Scapular and the Blue Scapular of the Immaculate Conception.
You can buy scapular necklaces from various online stores, including Telos Art Shop and Guadalupe Gifts.
