Eugene’s diary entry notes:
It is appropriate to recount here the privilege granted to our congregation by our Holy Father Pope Gregory XVI, in regard to the scapular or little habit of the Holy Virgin, decreed by the general chapter of 1837.
Eugene de Mazenod’s Diary, 20 August 1843, EO XXI
The 1837 General Chapter had asked that a cloth scapular of the Virgin Mary be given to every Oblate on the day of his perpetual oblation. This custom continues today, except that the cloth scapular has been replaced by a medal of Mary Immaculate.
I find myself reflecting on this lovely practice of the scapular, which I saw in a picture along side of an actual scapular which was yellowed with age as it sat in a small showcase.
I must confess that the medal is a lovely idea and one that I would attach to my Rosary beads. Like the cloth scapular it will be our own and a part of our personal rosaries. And while it may not be seen by others it is felt deep within us. And as our Mother of Mercy watches over us, she is close to us in our many sorrows and joys.
I think once again of Mary’s words: “Let it be done unto me according to your words.” Her response to the angel Gabriel. “To seek out new ways for the Word of God reach their [the poor] hearts often calls for daring… Awareness of our own shortcomings humbles us yet God’s power makes us confident as we strive to bring all people – especially the poor – to full consciousness of their dignity as human beings and as sons and daughters of God.” (C 8)
Mary, our Mother of Tenderness and Mercy is not merely an “add on” to our faith. She is fully a part of who we are as Christians, as members of the Oblate Family and as sons and daughters of Eugene de Mazenod. She welcomed not only the learned and three kings/Wise Men, but also the young shepherds to meet her newborn Son.
Like the poor shepherds we are invited to join together as we continue our Advent journey.