The Brown Scapular is a special devotion in the Catholic Church that traces its roots to the Old Testament with Elijah on Mount Carmel. Elijah was a faithful servant of God who helped the people of his day find happiness in loving God and following His laws. Those who followed Elijah's example became known as Carmelites.

Centuries later, the Virgin Mary became the mother of Jesus. Mary was very holy, and her heart was immaculate, meaning pure, because she did not commit any sins. She loved God with all her heart and, like Elijah, was a ‘handmaid’ or faithful servant of the Lord (Luke 1:38).

In 1251, the Virgin Mary appeared to the leader of the Carmelites, showed him a Brown Scapular, and said, “This shall be a sign to you and to all Carmelites: whosoever dies wearing this Scapular shall not suffer eternal fire [hell].” 

The Brown Scapular, traditionally a part of the Carmelite habit, became a symbol of the Virgin Mary’s special promise to protect all her spiritual children and show them the easiest way to get to Heaven. 

The Brown Scapular that the Carmelites wear is a large brown cloth that covers the front and back of their religious habit. Today, many laypeople wear a smaller Brown Scapular under their clothing as a sign of their dedication to Mary. Anyone can wear a Brown Scapular and become part of the worldwide family of Carmelites who try to imitate the Virgin Mary’s love for God.

In 1917, the Virgin Mary appeared again at Fatima, encouraging everyone to wear the Brown Scapular.

By consecrating or dedicating ourselves to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we are asking her to help us love God with all our hearts.

Background Photo Credit: Vienna - Fresco of Madonna in Carmelites church by sedmak from Getty Images

When attending a Catholic Mass, we can ask the Virgin Mary to place our hearts spiritually with Jesus on the paten (little plate) the priest holds. Then, when the priest offers Jesus to God the Father in Heaven, our hearts will be offered with Jesus. We can give God everything through the intercession of the Virgin Mary. 

In Fatima, the Virgin Mary promised that her Immaculate Heart would triumph. By wearing a Brown Scapular and praying the Rosary daily, Mary will help us become ‘handmaids’ or faithful servants of the Lord (Luke 1:38). We will triumph over evil and become saints!  Her Immaculate Heart of love will triumph! That will glorify God because He wants all people to be with Him in Heaven!