Understanding the Meaning of St Simon Stock Prayer
Introduction In the Catholic tradition, prayers hold a significant place, offering solace, guidance, and support for believers. Among the many prayers, the St Simon Stock Prayer stands out as one that carries deep meaning and purpose. This article explores the essence of the St Simon Stock Prayer, its origins, and its underlying message of devotion and protection.
Origins of St Simon Stock Prayer The St Simon Stock Prayer is closely associated with the Brown Scapular, a devotional garment worn by members of the Carmelite Order. According to tradition, in the thirteenth century, the Virgin Mary appeared to St Simon Stock, a Carmelite friar, and presented him with the Brown Scapular. She promised that whoever wore the scapular with devotion and faith would be protected from eternal damnation and enjoy her powerful intercession.
The Text of the Prayer The St Simon Stock Prayer, often recited by those who wear the Brown Scapular, goes as follows: “Hail, Mary, beloved Daughter of the Eternal Father; Hail, Mary, admirable Mother of the Son; Hail, Mary, faithful Spouse of the Holy Ghost; Hail, Mary, my Mother, my loving Mistress, my powerful sovereign; Hail, my joy, my glory, my heart, and my soul; Thou art all mine by mercy, and I am all thine by justice; But I am not thine sufficiently to be wholly comforted by thee: Ther do I give myself entirely to thee as thy possession and property; And in token of this, I deliver to thee my eyes, my ears, my mouth, my heart, my entire self; Wherefore, O loving Mother, as I am thine own, Keep me and guard me as thy proper and possession.”
The Message of Devotion The St Simon Stock Prayer is a profound expression of devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It acknowledges her various roles and attributes, positioning her as an intermediary between humanity and the Holy Trinity. By addressing Mary as the beloved Daughter of the Eternal Father, admirable Mother of the Son, and faithful Spouse of the Holy Ghost, the prayer highlights her unique relationship with each member of the Holy Trinity.
Surrendering to Mary’s Care The prayer also reflects a deep sense of surrender to Mary’s care and protection. By consecrating oneself entirely to her, the believer expresses trust and confidence in her maternal love and guidance. The act of delivering one’s eyes, ears, mouth, heart, and entire self signifies a complete surrender and a desire to be guided and guarded by Mary’s intercession.
Reciting the Prayer and Wearing the Scapular Reciting the St Simon Stock Prayer is often accompanied by wearing the Brown Scapular, an outward sign of one’s devotion to Mary and the Carmelite Order. The scapular is a small piece of cloth that is worn over the shoulders, with one piece hanging down in the front and one in the back. It serves as a constant reminder of one’s consecration to Mary and the protection she promises to those who wear it with faith.
Conclusion
The St Simon Stock Prayer holds deep meaning for those who embrace it as a means of expressing devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its origins in the Carmelite tradition and connection to the Brown Scapular underline its significance in Catholic spirituality. By surrendering oneself to Mary’s care and protection, believers find solace in her intercession and the promise of eternal salvation.
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