THE FOUR WAY MEDAL
One of the most popular types of religious medals is commonly known as the Four-Way Medal (4-Way Medal). This one medal combines the bulk of four or five medals into one convenient piece. Individually the medals would be heavy to wear and costly to buy, but together they form a simply beautiful pendant. Arranged in the shape of a cross, the Four-Way medal can vary in appearance, however the most popular form includes a Sacred Heart of Jesus medal, St. Christopher medal, St. Joseph medal and the Miraculous Medal. Some Four-Way medals that are designed for First Communion or Confirmation gifts may have a chalice or dove at the center of the cross. The reverse side of the medal will often contain the inscription "I am a Catholic, please call a priest." This traditional message is included in case of emergency so first responders will know to call a priest to administer the Sacraments.
The Sacred Heart Medal - During the 1600s Our Lord appeared to Saint Margaret Mary Alocoque. In His visits He made twelve promises to those who devote themselves to His Sacred Heart. The promises include special graces, peace, and blessings. This medal is also called a "Scapular Medal" when the image of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel is on the reverse.
The St. Christopher Medal - Little is known about St. Christopher's life, but traditional stories tell that he helped travelers to cross a dangerous stream. One day he carried a child across who turned out to be the Christ Child. Jesus baptized Christopher and he became a martyr for the Faith. He is known as the patron saint of travelers and his name means "Christ-bearer".
The Miraculous Medal - During an apparition of Our Lady to St. Catherine Laboure in 1830, Mary requested this special medal to be made. She said, "All who wear it will receive great graces; they should wear it around the neck. Graces will abound for persons who wear it with confidence." Read more about Miraculous Medals.
The St. Joseph Medal - St. Joseph, chosen by God to be Christ's earthly father, is known as the patron saint of many causes, including: workers, the dying, fathers, carpenters, engineers, and unborn children.
POPULAR FOUR WAY MEDALS
Gold/Sterling Silver
Four-Way Medal
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$42.95 |
Sterling Silver 4-Way Cross w/Chalice Center
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$29.95 |
Four-Way Medal -
Sterling Silver
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$34.00 |
Sterling Silver
Four-Way Medal
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$38.00 |
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Gold/Sterling Silver
Four-Way Medal
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$39.95 |
Sterling Silver
Four-Way Medal
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$38.00 |
Sterling Silver
Four-Way Medal
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$37.95 |
THE HISTORY OF SACRAMENTAL MEDALS
A sacramental is a material object that is approved by the Church to be used by the faithful to deepen and encourage their faith. These devotional aids are not a part of the seven sacraments, but are meant to serve as reminders of the graces we receive through the practice of our Faith. Familiar examples of sacramentals are holy water, rosaries, and crucifixes. Perhaps one of the most popular sacramental is the wearing of devotional medals. These medals may be crosses and crucifixes or contain images of Christ, Our Lady, or our favorite saints.
Evidence of the use of medals in the Christian community can be traced back to the Catacombs of Rome. These were often in the form of commemorative coins on the occasion of a baptism or other important event. In the twelfth century it became customary for pilgrims to receive small medals bearing the mark of the pilgrimage site they had visited as a type of proof of their journey. Throughout time the Church has been careful to state that medals are not to be used or thought of in any magical or superstitious way. The medals have no powers of their own and should only be worn as an outward sign of our Christian Faith.
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