Sacramentals, as opposed to Sacraments, are not channels of grace themselves but rather are “sacred signs which bear a resemblance to the sacraments” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1667). They can be thought of as spiritual tools, and when used with a faithful heart, they prepare us to receive grace and help us cooperate with it. Let’s talk about three of these powerful objects that every Catholic should consider keeping on hand—either in their bag, wallet, or purse—to stay connected to their faith, no matter where they are.
The Holy Rosary: Your Pocket-Sized Prayer Group
What is it?
The Rosary is a prayerful meditation that involves the repetition of prayers and the reflection on specific events in the lives of Jesus and Mary. This powerful prayer has been cherished by countless saints and laypeople alike.
Why You Should Carry It
The Rosary isn’t just a necklace; it’s a prayer that engages both the mind and body. Praying the Rosary helps us meditate on the mysteries of our faith.
What the Church Says
The Rosary is highly recommended by the Church. Pope St. John Paul II called it “a compendium of the Gospel.” The Catechism underscores the importance of prayer in the Christian life and, although not mentioning the Rosary explicitly, notes that “prayer and Christian life are inseparable” (CCC, 2745).
Biblical Roots
The Rosary is filled with prayers from the Bible. For example, the “Our Father” is taken directly from Matthew 6:9-13, and the “Hail Mary” begins with the angel Gabriel’s greeting to Mary in Luke 1:28.
The Brown Scapular: Wearing Mary’s Promise
What is it?
The Brown Scapular is a piece of brown cloth worn over the shoulders, connected by strings. It’s a sign of devotion to Mary and an expression of trust in her motherly protection.
Why You Should Carry It
Even if you’re not wearing it, keeping a Brown Scapular in your bag can be a constant reminder of Mary’s protection. Many saints and theologians have seen it as a symbol of being in Mary’s care.
What the Church Says
The Church approves the use of the Brown Scapular and has enriched it with various indulgences. However, the Church also clarifies that the Scapular is not a “magic talisman” but a sign of devotion. It should be a reminder to live a Christian life, reflecting the virtues of Mary. The Catechism talks about the veneration of Mary as being intrinsic to Christian worship (CCC, 971).
Biblical Roots
While the Scapular itself isn’t directly from the Bible, the idea of seeking Mary’s intercession and protection has biblical roots. In John 19:27, Jesus entrusts Mary to John, and John to Mary, which the Church has seen as symbolic of Mary’s spiritual motherhood for all Christians.
A Crucifix or Cross: The Sign of Our Salvation
What is it?
A Crucifix is a cross with an image of the crucified Jesus on it. A Cross, on the other hand, is empty.
Why You Should Carry It
Carrying a Crucifix or a Cross can be a vivid reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice for us. It can serve as a point of focus during prayer or a source of strength during challenging times.
What the Church Says
The Crucifix has a special place in Catholic liturgy and devotion. It is considered the principal sacramental used in public worship, notably during the Mass. The Catechism states that “by the sacramental, signs are instituted not by Christ but by the Church” (CCC, 1677). It continues that sacramentals “prepare us to receive grace and dispose us to cooperate with it” (CCC, 1670).
Biblical Roots
The importance of the cross is deeply rooted in the Bible. St. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 1:18, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
Conclusion
While carrying these sacramentals isn’t a substitute for the Sacraments or for living a Christian life, they serve as powerful reminders of faith. They are aids to devotion and can help prepare our hearts and minds to receive God’s grace. As Catholics, keeping these items close at hand can offer us tangible ways to remain rooted in our faith, no matter where we go.