Green Scapular: A powerful Devotion

The Green Scapular is a single piece of green felt and braid with an image of Mary on one side and Her Immaculate Heart pierced by a sword and dripping blood on the other side. Her Heart is surmounted by a cross and encircled by the words: “Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us now and at the hour of our death.”

This piece of sacramental has been confirmed by many, as an aid to the conversion of sinners and healing of ailments.

History has it that ten years after the manifestation of the Miraculous Medal to Sister Catherine Laboure in 1830, the Blessed Mother entrusted the Green Scapular of the Immaculate Heart to Sister Justine Bisqueyburu on the feast of her nativity September 8.

The Green Scapular was approved by Pope Pius IX in 1870. It is called a scapular due to its appearance but is not descended from the scapulars that form part of the habit worn by religious orders. It can be more accurately described as a “cloth medal”.

The Blessed Virgin indicated the manner in which the scapular should be used.
An investiture is not necessary since it is not the emblem of a confraternity but simply a double image attached to a single piece of cloth. The only requirement is; that the Green Scapular be blessed by a priest and worn or carried by the person wishing to benefit by it. If however, the person in need of grace is obstinate, the Green Scapular may be placed secretly inside his clothing, home or possessions, and the giver should say the prayer instead.

Read also: Different types of scapular

The only prayer necessary, which may be said many times daily, but should be said at least once a day is: “Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us now and at the hour of our death.” Although many graces are obtained, they are proportionate to the confidence with which it is given.

Some of the most common types of miracles associated with the Green Scapular include healing of people on the brink of death and, most importantly, quiet or drastic changes of heart which lead to a restoration of faith in the Catholic Church or conversion for non-Catholics.