What Is a Scapular? Meaning, Types, and How to Wear One
If you've ever seen a Catholic wearing two small cloth panels connected by cords around their neck, you've witnessed one of the Church's most beloved sacramentals: the scapular. Whether you're new to the faith or deepening your devotion, this guide explains what a scapular is, why Catholics wear one, and how to choose the right one for you.
What Is a Scapular?
A scapular (from the Latin scapula, meaning shoulder) is a form of devotional clothing with deep roots in Catholic tradition. It consists of two small pieces of wool cloth, usually brown, green, red, or white, connected by cords or strings and worn over the shoulders so that one panel rests on the chest and the other on the back.
Scapulars are considered sacramentals — sacred signs and objects that the Church uses to prepare us to receive grace. They are not magical charms; rather, they are outward signs of an interior commitment to Mary and to a particular devotion or religious community.
The Brown Scapular: Our Lady of Mount Carmel
The most widely known scapular is the Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, given by Our Lady to St. Simon Stock in 1251. According to tradition, Mary promised that whoever died wearing it would be saved from eternal fire. This promise, known as the Sabbatine Privilege, has made the Brown Scapular one of the most cherished Marian devotions in Catholic history.
To receive its full benefits, the faithful are asked to:
- Be enrolled in the scapular by a priest or deacon
- Wear it continuously
- Observe chastity according to one's state in life
- Pray the Little Office of Our Lady or substitute certain other prayers with a confessor's permission
Browse our Our Lady of Mount Carmel Scapular – Braided Thread, available in XL and Large sizes.
The Green Scapular
The Green Scapular is a scapular of healing and conversion, given by Our Lady to Sister Justine Bisqueyburu in 1840. Unlike the Brown Scapular, it has only one panel and requires no formal enrollment. It is often placed near a sick person or given to someone returning to the faith, with the prayer: "Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us now and at the hour of our death."
Our Green Scapular makes a thoughtful gift for a loved one in need of healing or spiritual renewal.
How to Wear a Scapular
- Enrollment: For the Brown Scapular, seek enrollment through a priest or deacon.
- Wear it day and night: The scapular should be worn continuously. Replace it when worn out — your enrollment remains valid.
- Scapular medal option: Once enrolled, you may switch to an approved scapular medal if cloth becomes impractical.
Start or Deepen Your Devotion
The scapular is more than a piece of cloth — it's a daily reminder of Mary's maternal protection. Shop our full selection, including the Braided Thread Brown Scapular and the Green Scapular, and carry Mary's protection with you every day.