[drstevej]

***Steve, I know that devotion to Mary is hard for Protestants to connect with. But as a Catholic, it is part and parcel of our Catholic tradition, and I am totally at ease with it***

Exactly, it is a Bible vs tradition issue at it's essence.

***As I said before, private devotions, revelations, and apparations are not required beliefs.***

Here I struggle. I understand the notion of "private devotion" (eg praying the rosary). But the statement/promise I quoted AND the linking of an indulgence with kissing the scapula go beyond private devotion.

If Mary did make that promise, why don't all Catholics follow her wishes? If she did not, or it is uncertain... upon waht basis is a pope declaring an indulgence for kissing the scapular.

It is the content -- a promise to protect from eternal flames which makes this unlike saying the rosary.

If you believe Mary said this why wouldn't you wear the scapula?

***It tells me of someone with a deep commitment to their faith and a devotion to our Blessed Mother.***

Yes, but it is more than that according to the lead article of the thread.

I am not picking on you or RCs. I am truly baffled even when trying to see this from the RC prospective.