​The Medal or Cross of Saint Benedict
Use of the Medal
The exact time and date of the making of the first Saint Benedict Medal are not clear, however, it is likely that may have initially had the form of a cross. Catholic tradition holds that as a young Benedictine, Pope Leo IX attributed his recovery from a snake bite to that cross.After becoming a pope, Leo IX enriched the St. Benedict cross to the form of a medal, and gave it blessings and indulgences.
Saint Vincent de Paul, who died in 1660, appears to have been acquainted with the Medal and the Sisters of Charity founded by him have worn it attached to their rosary beads.
The medal was formally approved by Pope Benedict XIV in 1741. The Jubilee medal was struck in 1880, in remembrance of the 1400th anniversary of St. Benedict’s birth. The initials of the Vade retro satana formula have been found on Saint Benedict Medals at least since 1780.
The letters found on the back of the medal, had remained a mystery until they were related to a manuscript dating back to 1415 was found at Metten Abbey in Bavaria in 1647. The manuscript contains the first recorded use of the exorcism formula Vade retro satana ("Step back, Satan"), and the letters were found to correspond to this phrase.
Lay Catholics are not permitted to perform exorcisms but they can use the Saint Benedict Medal, holy water, the crucifix, and other sacramentals to ward off evil. The Saint Benedict Medal in the middle of a Celtic Cross is believed to be a powerful tool against evil influences.
This medal is used in numerous ways:
- on a chain around the neck;
- attached to one's rosary;
- kept in one's pocket or purse;
- placed in one's car or home;
- placed in the foundation of a building;
- placed in the center of a cross.
The use of any religious article is intended as a means of reminding one of God and of inspiring a willingness and desire to serve God and neighbor. It is not regarded as a good luck charm or magical device. According to H. C. Lea (1896), "As a rule...it suffices to wear [the medal] devoutly, but, if some special favor is desired, it is advisable on a Tuesday to say five Glorias, three Aves and then three more Glorias to secure the protection of St. Benedict."
It is supposed to be effective in many ways:
- to destroy witchcraft and all other diabolical and haunting influences;
- to impart protection to persons tempted, deluded, or tormented by evil spirits;
- to obtain the conversion of sinners into the Catholic Church, especially when they are in danger of death;
- to serve as an armor against temptation;
- to destroy the effects of poison;
- to secure a timely and healthy birth for children;
- to afford protection against storms and lightning;
- to serve as an efficacious remedy for bodily afflictions and a means of protection against contagious diseases.
