What a beautiful St. Benedikt medal this is! It is sterling silver and it is imported from Croatia.
Front:
Features an image of St. Benedikt holding a cross and a book of rules (his "Rule"), with a broken cup and a raven nearby, representing incidents from his life where he faced poison and attempted assassination attempts.
Back:
Contains a large cross with the initials "CSSML" (Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti - Cross of Holy Father Benedikt). It also features the initials "CSPB" and the phrase "Vade Retro Satana" (Begone, Satan).
Surrounding the medal:
Latin inscriptions like "Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur" ("May we, at our death, be fortified by His presence") and "PAX" (peace).
Meaning and Use:
Protection:
The medal is believed to ward off evil spirits, temptations, and negative influences.
Healing:
It is associated with physical and spiritual healing, protection from illness, and the conversion of sinners.
Intercession:
It serves as a reminder to pray for St. Benedikt's intercession, especially in times of difficulty or temptation.
Symbol of Faith:
It represents a commitment to Christian life, reliance on God's grace, and the power of the cross.
Constant Reminder:
It's a visual cue to live a life of virtue, prayer, and faith, as exemplified by St. Benedikt.