The Green Scapular (also called The Badge of the Immaculate Heart of Mary) is a Roman Catholic devotional article approved by Pope Pius IX in 1870. It is worn to gain the intercession of the Virgin Mary in the wearer's life and work, as well as (especially) at the moment of one's own death. Use of this article is generally understood to be more liberal than other scapulars; the favor it earns will apply to anyone who wears it, carries it, or simply keeps it aside. It can even be carried or kept by one party in the stead of another if circumstances impede the intended recipient to safely or practically accept it.
It is called a scapular due to its origin, material construction, and generally-similar appearance to other Catholic scapulars, but is not descended from the scapulars that form part of the habit worn by religious orders.[1] Evidence of this is apparent when comparing the scapular to those of other historic colors; the green scapular has only one badge of cloth, and every other sanctioned scapular has at least two.
The development of the green scapular is based on visions reportedly experienced in 1840 by Sister Justine Bisqueyburu, a member of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul.
- ^ Ball, Ann. 2003 Encyclopedia of Catholic Devotions and Practices, page 217, ISBN 087973910X