Stuff Catholics Like

Scapulars.

That's Scapulars not Spatulas, not Dracula, it's Scapular.


The Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

The Black and Silver Spatula of Rob's Kitchen

The small scapulars consist essentially of two quadrilateral segments of woolen cloth (about two and three-quarter inches long by two inches wide), connected with each other by two strings or bands in such a manner that, when the bands rest on the shoulders, the front segment rests before the breast, while the other hangs down an equal distance at the back. The two segments of cloth need not necessarily be equally large, various scapulars having the segment before the breast of the above dimensions while the segment at the back is much smaller. The material of these two essential parts of the scapular must be of woven wool; the strings or bands may be of any material, and of any one colour. The colour of the segments of woollen cloth depends on the colour of the monastic habit, which it to a certain extent represents, or on the mystery in honour of which it is worn. Here, however, it must be remarked that the so called Brown Scapular of the Carmelites may be black, and that the bands of the Red Scapular of the Passion must be of red wool. On either or both of the woollen segments may be sewn or embroidered becoming representations or other decorations (emblems, names etc.) of a different material. It is only in the case of the Red Scapular that the images are expressly prescribed.

Wearing of the scapular shows that you are a seriously hardcore Catholic. It doesn't get much more old-school than scapulars, well except for hair-shirts and chastity belts maybe.

Guidelines for receiving the indulgences attached to the scapular: One must be enrolled in the Scapular by a Priest. New scapulars do not have to be blessed. They should be worn at all times and only removed for short times.

A scapular is not a 'get out of jail free card'. You need to be of the right spiritual disposition to receive the benefits that go along with it.

With permission you can substitute a four-way cross, that's what I did. You just have to ask a priest. You still receive the same spiritual promises that accompanying the scapular. I find the cross and chain more practical with my running, biking and swimming. The cloth scapulars get pretty funky after awhile with all my sweating - doesn't seem very respectable.
Sterling Silver 4-way Cross


So if you see someone wearing one, don't mess them cause they've got connections in high places.