The Blue Scapular Prayer Book

30 (the scapular was also dubbed “a miniature habit”) has at all times been something positive and precious in the eyes of the Church. Blue Scapular The Blue Scapular originated in Italy, and it is connected with the person of the Venerable Servant of God Ursula Benincasa (1547-1618), who founded the Congregation of the Oblates of the Immaculate Conception of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary in the year 1583. She also founded the Hermitage of the Contemplative Nuns of the Immaculate Conception. The rule of both communities was approved by Pope Gregory XV on April 7, 1623. In 1617, in Naples, Italy, on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, Ursula, having received Holy Communion, had a vision of the Blessed Mother clothed in a white garment over which she wore another garment of azure blue. In her arms, Mary held the Infant Jesus. Our Lady was surrounded by many persons, all similarly attired. The Blessed Mother spoke to Ursula in these words: “Cease weeping, Ursula, and turn your sighs into heartfelt joy. Listen closely to what Jesus, whom I am holding in my lap, will say to you.”