Expert: Fr. Michael - 3/2/2008

Question
Hi Father Jerome, I was a semi-lapsed Catholic until Christmas Day when the Holy Spirit blessed me with the desire to return to mass and filled my heart with love and hope again. It was an amazing experience. I was pretty much raised and taught by the Marymount Sisters, the Reigious of the sacred Heart of Mary, I have always defended the faith, but as I grew older and became more selfish I found ways to defend some of the actions I chose to take that were counter to my religion, I felt ashamed and did not think that I would be welcome in church because I wasn't a perfect Catholic. But this has all changed for me and I am happy and at peace and grateful for the faith that has always sustained me, faith and grace given by God. All of this is just by way of an introduction.

My questions are somewhat small and unimportant, more points of curiosity than anything; I have become interested in certain Catholic scapulars, badges, and sacramentals, particulary the Agnus Dei and the Apostleship of Prayer. What I would like to know is how does the Church feel about our collecting these lovely vintage pieces, perhaps having them blessed, and giving them as gifts? Is it still okay to carry medals and keep holy cards? Why was the Agnus Dei sacramental discontinued? I cannot find much information about this particular fact anywhere on line, only that The Holy Father passed away before being able to bless them again, and then it was never done again. With regard to the Apostleship of Prayer badges -- I love the vintage ones that have been embroidered by Sisters -- I read a bit about the history, but am wondering what the one hundred days of prayer refers to. Are we meant to pray one hundred days in a row while holding the badge, or were they prayed over? Finally, I was wondering about rosaries and whether we are allowed to wear them around our necks. My Mother feels that this is sacreligious. Thanks so very, very much for any input you might have. My paris here in Los Angeles is Saint Martin of Tours and the dear Father I spoke to is so young that he had never heard of the Agnus Dei. I printed out some information and gave him a few. I hope that was okay to do. Big Warm Hugs, Jacqui

Answer
Sacramentals, including Agnus Deis, when used as devotional items to stimulate prayer rather than as "amulets," are certainly commendable, may be blessed, and given as gifts.  Rosaries should not be worn around the neck.  Apparently, you are getting some unCatholic advice from members of the New Order.  Be sure that you are attending the true Mass and have a true priest at a traditional Catholic site.  A list is given at www.traditio.com/nat.htm.