The Symbolism Behind Common Catholic Medals

Catholic medals have been a significant part of the Faith for centuries, often worn as expressions of devotion and symbols of protection and divine grace. Each medal holds unique symbolism and reflects our faith, devotion, and beliefs when we wear it. Let’s explore the symbolism behind common Catholic medals to more meaningfully connect with the saints and figures they represent.

The Miraculous Medal

The Miraculous Medal, also known as the Medal of the Immaculate Conception, was designed following the visions of St. Catherine Labouré in 1830. The front of the medal depicts the Blessed Virgin Mary standing on a globe, crushing a serpent under her feet, with rays of light emanating from her hands.

This depiction of the Blessed Virgin illustrates her sinlessness and her victory over the devil, represented by the serpent. The rays of light emanating from her hands signify the graces she bestows upon those who seek her intercession. The words “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee” encircle the image.

On the reverse side, there is a cross and an M intertwined, with two hearts—the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary—and twelve stars representing the Apostles. The Miraculous Medal is often worn to seek Mary’s intercession and as a testament to faith in her protection and grace.

The Saint Michael Medal

Saint Michael the Archangel is known as the leader of the heavenly armies and our protector against evil. His medal usually features him wielding a sword or spear, standing triumphantly over Satan, represented as a dragon or serpent. This powerful imagery symbolizes Saint Michael’s victory over evil and his role as a defender of the faithful.

Wearing a Saint Michael medal is a call for his protection against the snares of the devil and a reminder of the spiritual battle between good and evil. It is especially popular among police officers, soldiers, and those in dangerous professions who seek courage and protection in their line of duty.

The Saint Benedict Medal

The Saint Benedict medal is rich in symbolism and is known as a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare. It has its own special blessing in the Roman Ritual that includes powerful prayers of exorcism. One side of the medal displays Saint Benedict holding a cross and the Rule of Saint Benedict. These words encircle the saint: “Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur!” (“May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death!”)

The letters found on the opposite side of the medal represent a powerful prayer against the devil. They include:

• C S P B: Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti (The Cross of the Holy Father Benedict)
• C S S M L: Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux (May the Holy Cross be my light)
• N D S M D: Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux (Let not the dragon be my guide)
• V R S: Vade Retro Satana (Begone, Satan)
• N S M V: Nunquam Suade Mihi Vana (Never tempt me with your vanities)
• S M Q L: Sunt Mala Quae Libas (What you offer me is evil)
• I V B: Ipse Venena Bibas (Drink the poison yourself)

This is a powerful prayer of protection against evil. We wear this medal with faith in Saint Benedict’s intercession and to invoke God’s blessing over our lives.

The Saint Christopher Medal

Saint Christopher is known as the patron saint of travelers. His medal typically shows him carrying the Christ Child across a river, symbolizing his strength and dedication. This imagery is tied to the legend of Christopher carrying travelers across a dangerous river. Once, he carried a child who revealed himself as Christ.

The Saint Christopher medal is a popular choice for those embarking on journeys, whether by road, sea, or air, and seeking Saint Christopher’s blessing for safe passage.

Advice for Choosing Saint Medals

Choosing a Catholic saint medal involves reflecting on the specific virtues or patronages for which you seek guidance or protection in your life. Consider selecting a saint whose life story or attributes resonate with your personal experiences or aspirations.

It’s also helpful to think about the areas of life where you feel you need support, such as health, travel, or work, and choose a saint known for their intercession in those areas. Lastly, trust your personal connection to a particular saint, as this can enhance the spiritual significance and comfort you find in the medal.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Medal

A scapular is a religious garment consisting of two small pieces of cloth, often bearing religious images or text, connected by strings and worn over the shoulders. It is a miniature version of a much larger article worn by professed religious. This smaller scapular symbolizes devotion and commitment to a particular saint or religious order, and serves as a sign of faith and a reminder of the wearer’s spiritual obligations.

The most popular scapular is the Brown Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, who is revered for her role as the patroness of the Carmelite Order and her promise of salvation to those who wear the Brown Scapular.

The scapular medal is a popular alternative to the traditional brown woolen scapular. Like its cloth counterpart, it often depicts Mary holding the Child Jesus, offering the Brown Scapular. This medal symbolizes Mary’s maternal care and her promise to lead the faithful to salvation. It is worn as a sign of devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel and a reminder of the wearer’s commitment to live a life of virtue and prayer.

The Sacred Heart Medal

The Sacred Heart medal is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and illustrates His divine love for humanity. The image of the Sacred Heart typically depicts a heart pierced and bleeding, encircled by a crown of thorns—imagery that recalls the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus for humanity’s sins. Flames often emanate from the heart, representing His divine love for all people. The cross atop the heart signifies the Crucifixion, highlighting the depth of His love and the redemption offered through His sacrifice.

This medal is worn to foster a deeper devotion to Jesus and to seek His compassionate love and mercy. It serves as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice and the greatness of His love and encourages the wearer to imitate Him in their own life.

The Four-Way Cross Medal

The four-way medal combines four distinct medals: the Sacred Heart at the top, Saint Christopher on the right, the Miraculous Medal at the bottom, and Saint Joseph on the left. This medal encapsulates the protection and blessings associated with each of the individual medals—Our Lord, Our Lady, and the saints—making it a comprehensive symbol of faith.

The reverse side of the four-way medal often bears the inscription “I am a Catholic. Please call a priest.” These words serve as an important identifier in emergencies, ensuring that the wearer receives the sacraments in critical situations. It reflects our belief in the importance of receiving Last Rites and spiritual support when death is imminent.

The symbolism behind common Catholic medals serves as a constant reminder of the spiritual support and guidance that our heavenly protectors long to give us. Wearing these medals deepens our devotion to Our Lord, Our Lady, and the saints and keeps their example always before us, inspiring us to imitate their virtues in our own lives.