Stained Glass Scapulars-Reflections on the Secular Carmelite Rule

Section VI: The Tertiary Habit

1.  The large Brown Scapular shall continue to be given as the habit of the Secular Order at the time of admission to Formation.

2.  A smaller Brown Scapular may be worn for everyday use if the member so desires.

3.  If a Carmelite member wishes to be buried in the full habit of the Order, or with the Scapular worn externally, prior arrangements should be made with the member's family or closest associates.

Sometimes, as Secular Carmelites we forget that we are truly a part of the Carmelite Family-a canonically established religious Order within the Church. We are not Carmelite wanabees! When we were accepted into formation with our local community we were clothed in Our Lady's garment: the Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.

In our community, we have discussed that it is important for a member to tell family members and one's pastor of his desire to be buried in the full habit or with the large Scapular.  Many times we have heard stories of elderly members who are not able to attend meetings, they pass away, and are not even given a Mass of Christian Burial by their families. With this in mind, our community made available to our members, a form they can complete that explains their final wishes. A copy can be given to family, the pastor, and kept in the local community files.

Let us thank Our Lady for her holy habit that we wear. It is a sign of her great love for Carmel and for each of us individually. May we wear it with great devotion and humility.

Here is a beautiful link to the Carmelite Nuns in Iceland.  A young woman enters Carmel and receives the habit of Our Lady.  Enjoy the beautiful photos.

The Carmel of Iceland

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Peace be with you!
Rosemarie
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