What Is the Green Scapular and How Do You Use It?
By The Faith Gift Shop | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Tips & Care
Discover the meaning of the Green Scapular, how to use it in daily prayer, and tips for wearing or gifting this Catholic devotional item.
Quick Answer
The Green Scapular is a Catholic devotional cloth with two medals, one featuring the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the other the Sacred Heart of Jesus. You use it by praying the specified prayer daily and wearing it or keeping it in your home, trusting in Mary's intercession.
What the Green Scapular Symbolizes
The Green Scapular, also known as the Scapular of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, is a two-piece wool and cord devotional that features the Immaculate Heart of Mary on one medal and the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the other. It is often associated with the Congregation for Divine Worship's description of the Carmel Scapular as an external sign of a special, filial relationship with the Virgin Mary.
Unlike the Brown Scapular, which is worn as part of the Carmelite order, the Green Scapular is a devotion that can be used by anyone, whether worn or kept in a home. Its green color symbolizes hope and the renewal of grace.
How It Differs from Other Scapulars
The Green Scapular is unique because it is not a habit but a devotional item. It is often given to those who are sick, dying, or away from the Church, as it is a simple way to invoke Mary's intercession. The wool and cord construction makes it lightweight and easy to wear, and its small size (1.7" x 1.4") allows it to be tucked into a pocket or placed under a pillow.
While the Brown Scapular requires enrollment by a priest, the Green Scapular does not, making it accessible for anyone who wishes to begin a scapular devotion.
Practical Considerations for Use
The Green Scapular can be worn around the neck, but some people prefer to keep it in their wallet, under a mattress, or in a place of honor in their home. It is not a magic charm; it is a sacramental that reminds you to pray and trust in God's grace.
If you are giving it as a gift, consider pairing it with a simple prayer card or a note explaining the devotion, so the recipient understands its purpose and how to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Green Scapular?
- The Green Scapular is a two-piece devotional cloth with medals of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is a sacramental of the Catholic Church that expresses trust in Mary's intercession.
- How do I use the Green Scapular?
- Wear it around your neck, or keep it in your pocket, wallet, or home. Pray the accompanying prayer daily: 'Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us now and at the hour of our death.' Set a daily reminder to pray the words, even if you cannot wear the scapular.
- Can I give the Green Scapular as a gift?
- Yes. It is often given to the sick, the dying, or those who have left the Church. Include a short explanation of the devotion and the prayer. Consider gifting it with a prayer card to help the recipient begin the practice.
- Does the Green Scapular need to be blessed?
- While any sacramental can be blessed by a priest, it is not required for the Green Scapular. A blessing can be a meaningful way to set it apart for devotional use. Ask your parish priest to bless it if you want an extra sign of dedication.
- What are the promises of the Green Scapular?
- The Green Scapular is associated with the promise of Mary's intercession for the wearer or the person for whom it is offered, especially for conversion and a good death. Trust in God's grace; the scapular is not a guarantee but a sign of prayer.
Green Scapular Details
- Green Scapular, Escapulario Verde: This Green Scapular features Our Lady of Mt. Carmel on the first medal and the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the second, made of wool and cord, measuring 1.7" x 1.4". The wool material and compact size make it comfortable to wear or carry daily, while the dual medals reflect the core symbols of the devotion.
Green Scapular, Escapulario Verde
