The Saint Benedict Medal
A sacramental for protection, conversion, and perseverance
The Saint Benedict Medal is one of the Church’s most beloved sacramentals. Rooted in the Rule of Saint Benedict and the Cross of Christ, it’s a visible prayer for God’s protection, conversion of heart, and perseverance in good.
Meaning & Symbols
- Front: Saint Benedict holding the cross and his Rule; often the words “Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur” — “May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death.”
- Back: A large cross with letters representing ancient prayers of exorcism and trust in Christ’s victory.
- PAX: “Peace” — the hallmark of Benedictine spirituality, grounded in obedience, humility, and prayer.
Blessings & How to Use
- Have it blessed by a priest: A simple blessing is sufficient; some priests use the Benedictine formula.
- Carry or wear daily: On a chain, in a pocket, on a key ring, or attached to your rosary (common with the Combat Rosary™).
- Place with faith: At doors, vehicles, workspaces, or in a child’s room. Treat it reverently as a sacramental.
- Pray with it: Use the short Latin inscriptions as aspirations throughout the day (see below).
Note: Sacramentals don’t work by magic; they dispose us to receive grace through faith, prayer, and the sacraments.
Inscriptions (Latin → English)
On/around the Cross
- C.S.P.B. — Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti — The Cross of (our) 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.
Front motto & ring
- Eius in obitu… — “May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death.”
- PAX — “Peace.”
Prayers
Prayer to Saint Benedict
O glorious Saint Benedict, model of all virtues, pure vessel of God’s grace, behold me humbly kneeling at your feet. I implore your loving heart to pray for me before the throne of God. Shield me from dangers of soul and body; obtain for me a living faith, firm hope, perfect charity, and perseverance in good, that I may one day praise God with you in heaven. Amen.
“Vade Retro” Aspiration (from the medal)
Crux sacra sit mihi lux; non draco sit mihi dux. Vade retro, Satana! Nunquam suade mihi vana: sunt mala quae libas; ipse venena bibas.
Holy Cross be my light; let not the dragon be my guide. Begone, Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities: what you offer is evil; drink your poison yourself.
Using the Medal in Spiritual Warfare
- Trace a small sign of the Cross with the medal and pray, “Crux sacra sit mihi lux.”
- When tempted, quietly pray the Vade Retro aspiration above.
- Keep one at home and one on your person; unite it to regular Confession, Mass, and daily prayer.
- Parents: place a blessed medal above doors or cribs as a visible reminder to pray.
Common Questions (Quick FAQ)
Do I need a special “St. Benedict blessing”?
A priest’s blessing is recommended; many simply use the standard blessing for sacramentals. Some priests may use the Benedictine formula.
Is this an exorcism?
No. The medal is a sacramental, not a rite of exorcism. It disposes us to receive grace and strengthens us in resisting evil.
Can I wear it with a crucifix or on my rosary?
Yes—many wear it on a chain, keep it in a pocket, or attach it to a rosary (as with the Combat Rosary™).
Are there indulgences?
Historically, indulgences were associated with devout use. Follow current norms (see the Enchiridion Indulgentiarum) and ask your pastor for guidance.
Printable & Next Steps
- Download the one-page Benedict Medal Guide (PDF).
- Keep your medal and a small intentions card together in a pouch.
- Choose a daily time to pray the short Latin aspirations (morning, commute, or evening prayer).
Recommended Gear
- The Original Combat Rosary™ — includes the St. Benedict Medal and Pardon Crucifix.
- Saint Benedict Medal — carry or wear daily.
- Leather or Canvas Pouches — keep sacramentals protected and ready.
- Prayer Cards & Booklets — quick references for daily prayer.
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