St Benedict
Content
Origin and Explanation
St. Benedict (born at Nursia, Italy, in 480) had a profound veneration for the holy Cross and for
our Savior Crucified. In virtue of the Sign of the Cross, he wrought many miracles and exercised
great power over the spirits of darkness. In consequence of the great veneration in which St.
Benedict was held from the early Middle Ages, it followed that a Medal was struck, one side of
which represents St. Benedict holding the Cross in one hand and the Holy Rule in the other.
Around the image of St. Benedict are these words in Latin: "May his presence protect us in the
hour of death."
St. Benedict has ever been the patron of the dying, because of the circumstances attending his
own most glorious death, for he breathed forth his soul while standing in prayer before the Most
Blessed Sacrament.
The reverse of the Medal shows the image of the Cross. Around the margin are the initials of
Latin words which form verses supposed to have the originated with the holy Father Benedict
himself. The English translation is: "Begone Satan! Suggest not to me thy vain things. The cup
thou profferest me is evil; drink thou thy poison." In the angles formed by the arms of the Cross
are the letters C.S.P.B., signifying "Cross of the holy Father Benedict." The letters on the Cross
itself have this meaning: "May the holy Cross be my light; let not the dragon be my guide."
Use
No special way of carrying or applying the Medal is prescribed. It may be worn around the neck,
attached to the scapular or the Rosary, or otherwise carried about one's person.
Often it is placed in the fields, the foundations of buildings or attached to automobiles to call
down God's blessing and the protection of St. Benedict. No particular prayer is prescribed as the
devout wearing itself is a continual silent prayer.
Purposes of the Medal
The medal of St. Benedict is the most highly indulgenced medal in the Catholic Church. When
the exorcism blessings are applied by a Benedictine Priest, the medal has power over evil:
storms, poisons, pestilence, the devil's legions, etc. You must use the medal by calling down the
intercession of St. Benedict. (Use by dipping in liquids, placing on/in important machinery,
structures, etc.)
On many feast days of Our Lord, the Blessed Mother, the Apostles, and many saints, it is
possible to gain a plenary or partial indulgence by carrying or wearing the medal; invoking the
intercession of St. Benedict; and, praying for the abolishment of heresy.
The following is a partial list of the many pious purposes of the Medal of St. Benedict:
1. It wards off from both the soul and body all dangers arising from the devil.
2. The Medal is powerful in obtaining for sinners the grace of conversion.
3. It obtains protection and aid for persons tormented by the evil spirit, and in temptations
against holy purity.
4. It procures assistance in the hour of death.
5. It has often proved an efficacious remedy for bodily sufferings, and a means of protection
against contagious diseases.
6. Expectant mothers have obtained special assistance for a safe delivery.
7. In time of storms, tempests and other dangers on land and sea it has been found to be a
protection.
8. Even domestic animals have been visibly aided by it when infected with disease.
"Jesus, Mary, I love You, Save Souls"
MEDAL OF ST. BENEDICT
The medal of St. Benedict, propagated anywhere in the world for more than 300 years, especially by the
Benedictine monks, has been famous by its extraordinary effectiveness against the demon and his manifestations; in
the defense against curses of all sort, against diseases, specially the contagious ones, against snake bites and other
animals; in the protection of domestic animals, vehicles, etc.
Repeated times approved and praised by the Popes, the medal of St. Benedict, that unites the exorcizing
strength of the Holy Cross of the Redeemer - the sign of our salvation - the memory of the merits reached about the
great sanctity of the great Patriarch St. Benedict, without a doubt is very indicative for the catholic devotees.
The IMAGE OF THE CROSS IN THE MEDAL
It is sufficient for the Christian to briefly consider the sovereign virtue of the Cross of Jesus Christ, to
understand the dignity of a medal wherein it is represented.
The Cross awakes in us feelings of gratitude towards God, for the benefit of our salvation.
The Cross causes terror to the malignant spirits, who always back down before her, and as soon as they see
it they abandon its prey and flee. Thus, our medal, that represents in the first place the image of the Cross, is in
perfect harmony with the Christian mercy, and if only for this reason, it is already worthy of greater respect.
THE IMAGE OF ST. BENEDICT REPRESENTED IN THE MEDAL
The honor to appear in the same medal along with the image of the Holy Cross was granted to St. Benedict
with the purpose of indicating the effectiveness that it had in his hands this sacred signal. St. Gregory the Great,
who wrote the life of the Saint Patriarch, represents it dissipating his own temptations with the sign of the Cross, and
breaking with it the chalice containing a poisoned drink, thus leaving perverse evidence of those that had dared to
attempt against his life. When the malignant spirit, to terrify the monks, makes them see their Montecasino
Monastery in flames, St. Benedict vanishes the diabolic vision, making the sign of the Cross of our Savior on the
fantastic flames. When his disciples are inwardly tempted by the suggestions of the tempter, he indicates as the best
solution to make the sign of the Cross on their hearts. From it all, it can be concluded that it was very advisable to
join in a single medal the image of the St. Patriarch and that of the Cross of the Savior.
This is still more evident when considering that both great disciples of the servant of God, St. Placid and St.
Maurus, when they made their frequent miracles were in the habit of invoking the assistance of the Holy Cross, the
name of its saintly Founder, and thus they consecrated, from the beginning, the pious custom expressed later in the
medal.
THE CHARACTERS THAT APPEAR IN THE MEDAL
In addition to the images of the Holy Cross and St. Benedict, the medal also has certain letters, each one
representing a word in Latin. The diverse reunited words have a sense that indicate the intention of the medal: to
express the relationship that exists between St. Patriarch Benedict and the Holy Cross; and at the same time, to avail
the faithful an effective means to use the virtue of the Holy Cross against the malignant spirits.
Those mysterious letters are on the side of the medal where the Holy Cross is represented. Let us examine,
in the first place, the four placed between the arms of this Cross:
C
S
P
B
They mean: Cross Sancti Patris Benedicto; in Castilian, Cross of Holy Father Benedict. Those words
explain what the medal represents.
In the vertical line de la Cruz it reads:
C
S
S
M
L
Which stands for: Sacred cross sit mihi lux; in Castilian, Let the Holy Cross be my Guide.
In the horizontal line of the same Cross, it reads:
N. D. S. M. D.
Which stands for: Non Draco sit mihi dux; in Castilian, Do not allow the dragon be my guide.
Joining those two lines a pentameter verse is formed, by means of which the Christian expresses his
confidence in the Holy Cross, and his resistance to the yoke that the demon would want to impose on him.
Around the medal there is one more extensive inscription, that in the first place shows the most holy name of
Jesus, expressed by the well known monogram: I. H. S. (In the better known monogram of the Medal of St.
Benedict, I. H. S. was replaced by the Benedictine motto PAX; in Castilian, Peace). Thereafter, from right to left,
the following letters:
V. R. S. N. S. M. V. S. M. Q. L. I. V. B.
These initials represent the following two verses:
Vade retro satana; nuncuam suave mihi vana
Sunt mala quae libas; ipse venena bibas.
Which in Castilian mean: Step aside, Satan; never advise me of your vanities, the drink that you offer is evil:
you yourself drink you own poisons.
Such words were assume to have been said by St. Benedict: those of the first verse, during the temptation that
he felt and over which he prevailed by making the sign of the Cross; those of the second verse, at the moment when
his enemies presented him with a deadly drink, which was discovered when he blessed with the sign of life the
chalice that contained it.
The Christian can use these words at all times when assaulted by temptations and insults of the invisible
enemy of our salvation. The same Jesus Christ Our Lord sanctified the words Vade retro, satana – Move aside,
Satan - and its value is certain, once the Gospel assures us of it. The vanities that the demon advises us are the
disobediences to the law of God, the pomp and false principles of the world. The drink that the angel of darkness
presents to us is sin that brings death to the soul. Instead of accepting it, we give it back so unfortunate present to
him, since he himself chose it as his patrimony.
It is enough that somebody pronounces with faith such words, to feel immediately with forces to face all the
attacks of hell. Even though we would not know the facts that show to what extent Satan fears that medal, the
simple consideration of what it represents and what it express, it would be enough so that we considered it one of the
most powerful arms than the kindness of God put in our reach against the diabolical malice.
USE OF THE MEDAL OF ST. BENEDICT
We do not ignore that in this century many people consider that the demon is rather an imaginary and non
real being; and thus, it can seem strange that a medal is coined and blessed, used as protection against the attacks of
the malignant spirit. Nevertheless, the sacred Scriptures offer innumerable passages that give us an idea of the
power and the activity of the demons, as well as to the dangers of the soul and body that we are continuously
exposed due to their tireless efforts. In order to annihilate their power it is not only enough to ignore the demons
and to smile when we hear about their operations. The air will not stop from being contaminated with legions of
evil spirits, as taught by St. Paul; and if God did not protect us, even when we are not aware of it, by the ministry of
the Holy Angels, it would be for us impossible to avoid the innumerable pitfalls of these enemies of all creatures of
God.
However, the power of the Holy Cross against Satan and its legions is such, that we can consider it an
impenetrable shield that makes us invulnerable to its attacks.
We thus conclude how advantageous it is to use with faith the medal of St. Benedict whenever we most fear
the attacks of the enemy. Its protection, we should not doubt it, will be effective against all type of temptations.
Numerous and undeniable facts indicate its powerful aid in thousands of circumstances in which, or by spontaneous
action of Satan, or by the effect of some curse, the faithful were on the verge of succumbing before an imminent
danger. We will also be able to use it in favor of others, like means of preservation or liberation, to confront
oncoming perils.
Often unexpected accidents threaten us, on land or sea; if full of faith we carry with us the medal, we will
be protected. There are no human life circumstances, no matter its nature, whereby through the intervention of the
Holy Cross and the power of St. Benedict. Thus evil spirits, in their hatred against mankind, attack domestic
animals in their service; attack the foods we eat; their evil interventions are the result of many maladies that affect
us; now then it has been proven that the use of the medal accompanied by prayer directly stops the evil attacks, and
bring a noticeable relief to maladies, and at times, even a complete cure.
PRAYER TO REQUEST THE PROTECTION OF ST. BENEDICT
Most Holy Confessor of the Lord; Father and head of the monks, intercede with your sanctity for our
health of soul, body and mind.
Liberate from our life, our house, the malfeasances of the malignant spirit. Free us from unfortunate
heresies, foul gossip and witchcraft.
Ask the Lord to remedy our spiritual and corporal necessities. Also ask for the progress of the holy
Catholic church; and because my soul does not die in mortal sin, so that thus trusted in Your powerful intercession,
can someday in heaven, sing eternal praises. Amen.
Jesus, Maria and Jose I love you, save lives, nations and souls.
Pray three Our Fathers, Hail Maries, and Glory be.
BRIEF NOVENA TO REQUEST A GRACE
Pray during nine days consecutive the following prayer:
Oh St. Benedict, my kind protector and of those that go to you during their hardships. Intercede on my behalf to
God so that my sorrows and pains that now burden me are alleviated.
(request desired grace here)
I request it with full confidence.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be.
Go up
The following two prayers to St. Benedict are recited by the monks of Most
Holy Family Monastery every day. We recommend them to others as well. St.
Benedict is an extremely powerful intercessor for us in Heaven. St. Benedict,
born in 480 A.D., was the founder of western monasticism and is renowned
for his power against the Devil. St. Benedict was also a great miracle worker,
as many books document. In particular, we recommend The Life of St.
Benedict by Pope St. Gregory the Great. He is a powerful patron that we need
today when impurity, apostasy and infidelity inundate the earth. St. Benedict
died March 21, 543, as he stood before the altar of Monte Cassino
immediately after receiving Holy Communion. St. Benedict is easily one of the greatest saints of
all time.
Prayer to St. Benedict for a Happy Death
"O holy Father, St. Benedict, blessed by God both in grace and in name, who, while standing in
prayer, with hands raised to heaven, didst most happily yield thy angelic spirit into the hands of
thy Creator, and hast promised zealously to defend against all the snares of the enemy in the last
struggle of death, those who shall daily remind thee of thy glorious departure and heavenly joys;
protect me, I beseech thee, O glorious Father, this day and every day, by thy holy blessings, that I
may never be separated from our dear Lord, from the society of thyself, and of all the blessed.
Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen."
St. Benedict himself revealed to St. Gertrude - also one of the greatest saints in the history of the
Catholic Church, and herself a Benedictine nun - that "whoever reminds me of the extraordinary
privilege with which God deigned to glorify my last moments, shall experience my particular
assistance in his final combat. I will be a faithful protector against the assaults of the enemy.
Fortified by my presence, he will escape the snares of the evil one and safely attain eternal
happiness."
Novena to St. Benedict
"O Glorious St. Benedict, sublime model of all virtues, pure vessel of God's
grace! Behold me, humbly kneeling at thy feet. I implore thy loving heart to pray
for me before the throne of God. To thee I have recourse in all the dangers which
daily surround me. Shield me against my enemies, inspire me to imitate thee in
all things. May thy blessings be with me always, so that I may shun whatever
God forbids and avoid the occasions of sin."
"Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces of which I stand so much in need, in
the trials, miseries and afflictions of life. Thy heart was always so full of love, compassion, and
mercy towards those who were afflicted or troubled in any way. Thou didst never dismiss
without consolation and assistance anyone who had recourse to thee. I therefore invoke thy
powerful intercession in the confident hope that thou will hear my prayers and obtain for me the
special grace and favor I so earnestly implore (mention it), if it be for the greater glory of God
and the welfare of my soul."
"Help me, O great St. Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to be
ever submissive to His holy will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven.
Amen."
Prayers to St. Benedict, Patron Against Poisoning, Patron of Religious to
Filled With the Spirit's Power
Admirable Saint and Doctor of Humility, you practiced what you taught,
assiduously praying for God's glory and lovingly fulfilling all work for God
St. Benedict
Cross
This beautiful
cross is designed
especially for
those devoted to
St. Benedict.
and the benefit of all human beings. You know the many physical dangers that surround us today
often caused or occasioned by human inventions. Guard us against poisoning of the body as well
as of mind and soul, and thus be truly a "Blessed" one for us. Amen.
Dear St. Benedict, you are a "blessing" indeed, as your name indicates.
Practicing what you preached, you founded the monastic tradition of the West by joining prayer
to labor for God---both liturgical and private prayer. Help all religious to follow their Rule and be
true to their vocation.
May they labor and pray for the world to the greater glory of God. Amen.
Glorious St. Benedict, sublime model of virtue, pure vessel of God's grace! Behold me humbly
kneeling at your feet. I implore you in your loving kindness to pray for me before the throne of
God. To you I have recourse in the dangers that daily surround me. Shield me against my
selfishness and my indifference to God and to my neighbor. Inspire me to imitate you in all
things. May your blessing be with me always, so that I may see and serve Christ in others and
work for His kingdom.
Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces which I need so much in the trials,
miseries, and afflictions of life. Your heart was always full of love, compassion, and mercy
toward those who were afflicted or troubled in any way. You never dismissed without
consolation and assistance anyone who had recourse to you. I therefore invoke your powerful
intercession, confident in the hope that you will hear my prayers and obtain for me the special
grace and favor I earnestly implore (mention your favor).
Help me, great St. Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to run in the sweetness of
His loving will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven. Amen.
Novena to St. Benedict
Glorious St. Benedict who taught us the way to religious perfection by the
practice of self-conquest, mortification, humility, obedience, prayer, silence,
retirement and detachment from the world, I kneel at your feet and humbly beg
you to take my present need under your special protection (mention here).
Vouchsafe to recommend it to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the
throne of Jesus. Cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted. Above
all, obtain for me the grace to one day meet God face to face, and with you and
Mary and all the angels and saints to praise Him through all eternity. O most powerful Saint
Benedict, do not let me lose my soul, but obtain for me the grace of winning my way to heaven,
there to worship and enjoy the most holy and adorable Trinity forever and ever. Amen.
Pray 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary, and 1 Glory Be.
The Litany of St. Benedict
Lord, have mercy on us, Christ, have mercy on us.
God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Spirit, Have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, Pray for us.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, Pray for us.
Holy Father, Saint Benedict, Pray for us.
Father most reverend, Pray for us.
Father most renowned, Pray for us.
Father most compassionate, Pray for us.
Man of great fortitude, Pray for us.
Man of venerable life, Pray for us.
Man of the most holy conversation, Pray for us.
True servant of God, Pray for us.
Light of devotion, Pray for us.
Light of prayer, Pray for us.
Light of contemplation, Pray for us.
Star of the world, Pray for us.
Best master of an austere life, Pray for us.
Leader of the holy warfare, Pray for us.
Leader and chief of monks, Pray for us.
Master of those who die to the world, Pray for us.
Protector of those who cry to thee, Pray for us.
Wonderful worker of miracles, Pray for us.
Revealer of the secrets of the human heart, Pray for us.
Master of spiritual discipline, Pray for us.
Companion of the patriarchs, Pray for us.
Equal of the prophets, Pray for us.
Follower of the Apostles, Pray for us.
Teacher of Martyrs, Pray for us.
Father of many pontiffs, Pray for us.
Gem of abbots, Pray for us.
Glory of Confessors, Pray for us.
Imitator of anchorites, Pray for us.
Associate of virgins, Pray for us.
Colleague of all the Saints, Pray for us.
St. Benedict
Jubilee Medal
Saint Benedict
stands on a pedestal,
a shepherd’s crook
in his arm, holding
the cross of Jesus in
his right hand and
his famous Rule in
his left. On his right
side we see the
poisoned cup that
could not kill him,
and on his left an
image of the raven
that fed him.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.
V. Intercede for us, O holy father Saint Benedict,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let Us Pray: O God, Who hast called us from the vanity of the world, and Who dost incite us to
the reward of a heavenly vocation under the guidance of our holy patriarch and founder, Saint
Benedict, inspire and purify our hearts and pour forth on us Thy grace, whereby we may
persevere in Thee. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Prayer To St. Benedict
O glorious St. Benedict, sublime model of all virtues, pure vessel of God's
grace! Behold me, humbly kneeling at thy feet. I implore thy loving heart to pray
for me before the throne of God. To thee I have recourse in all the dangers which
daily surround me. Shield me against my enemies, inspire me to imitate thee in
all things. May thy blessing be with me always, so that I may shun whatever
God forbids and avoid the occasions of sin.
Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces of which I stand so
much in need, in the trials, miseries and afflictions of life. Thy heart was always
so full of love, compassion, and mercy towards those who were afflicted or
troubled in any way. Thou didst never dismiss without consolation and assistance any one who
had re-course to thee. I therefore invoke thy powerful intercession, in the confident hope that
thou wilt hear my prayers and obtain for me the special grace and favor I so earnestly implore
(mention it), if it be for the greater glory of God and the welfare of my soul.
Help me, O great St. Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to be ever submissive to
His holy will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven. Amen.
Benedictine Mission House
P. O. Box 528
Schuyler, Nebraska 68661
Saint Benedict Cross
HE SAINT BENEDICT CROSS / CRUCIFIX
Saint Benedict had a deep love for the cross as the encompassing symbol of faith
in God Jesus and the Spirit and his devotion to Christianity and his Zealous call
to bring the light and spirit of God to everyone in his path.
For St Benedict the Cross of Jesus is the symbol of Jesus way that he lived when
he walked with us in the flesh on earth, death to the self-ego and
rebirth/resurrection in the spirit of God.
Saint Benedict was a believer in humble obedience to God's holy will. With the cross at his side
St Benedict dedicated his life to bring the light of Jesus to nations and bring them out of the
darkness of paganism.
There are numerous accounts of miracles Saint Benedict worked with the sign of the cross. The
Cross saved benedicts life when a group of monks tried to poison him. Saint Benedict made the
sign of the cross over the cup, the cup shattered, made the poison useless as it spilled on the
floor.
Saint Benedict used the Cross to dispel evil and exorcise demons. The cross of St Benedict is still
the most used instrument used by exorcists to set the victims of demons free.
The saint Benedict cross is a constant reminder for Christians to reject evil temptations, strive to
perform good works, exorcise true charity and justice toward all. It is a reminder of Jesus calling
to take up our Cross and follow him on the path of love, compassion and unity. To follow the
"true King, Christ our Lord" and not the lord of culture and convention. To be on the side of
justice and bring forth the Kingdom of God.
The Saint Benedict Cross symbolizes this by the inscriptions on
the medal.
Crux S. Patris Benedict
(The Cross of our Holy father Benedict.)
Crux in Obitu Nostro Praesentra Muriamur
(May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of death!)
St Benedict died a happy death at Montecassino while standing with his arms
raised up to heaven, supported by the brothers of the monastery, shortly after he
received Communion. Saint Benedict is the patron of Happy Death.
Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux! Nun Quam Draco Sit Mihi Dux! (May the Holy Cross be my light!
May the dragon never be my guide!) Light is a symbol of wisdom and the Cross is a symbol of
Wisdom of God shining the way on the path of Jesus and God. The dragon is a symbol of ego
culture and convention. This means never to let the lord of conventional views rule our beliefs
and dim the wisdom of God.
Pax (peace)
Peace is wholeness and unity. This means that like Jesus, we should strive to always have love
and compassion for others and always to be on the side of justice for all.
The Saint
Benedict Cross
fratures the very
special St.
Benedicts
Crucifix Medal
on the front and
back side of the
cross.
rayer to Saint Benedict
Admirable Saint and Doctor of Humility, you practiced what you taught, assiduously praying for
God's glory and lovingly fulfilling all work for God and the benefit of all human beings. You
know the many physical dangers that surround us today, often caused or occasioned by human
inventions. Guard us against poisoning of the body as well as of mind and soul, and thus be truly
a "Blessed" one for us. Amen.
Prayer to Saint Benedict
Glorious Saint Benedict, sublime model of virtue, pure vessel of God's grace! Behold me humbly
kneeling at your feet. I implore you in your loving kindness to pray for me before the throne of
God. To you I have recourse in the dangers that daily surround me. Shield me against my
selfishness and my indifference to God and to my neighbor. Inspire me to imitate you in all
things. May your blessing be with me always, so that I may see and serve Christ in others and
owrk for His kingdom.
Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces which I need so much in the trials,
miseries and afflictions of life. Your heart was always full of love, compassion and mercy toward
those who were afflicted or troubled in any way. You never dismissed without consolation and
assistance anyone who had recourse to you. I therefore invoke your powerful intercession,
confident in the hope that you will hear my prayers and obtain for me the special grace and favor
I earnestly implore. {mention your petition}
Help me, great Saint Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to run in the sweetness
of His loving will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven. Amen.
Prayer for the Gifts to Seek God and Live in Him
Father, in your goodness grant me the intellect to comprehend you, the perception to discern you,
and the reason to appreciate you. In your kindness endow me with the diligence to look for you,
the wisdom to discover you, and the spirit to apprehend you. In your graciousness bestow on me
a heart to contemplate you, ears to hear you, eyes to see you, and a tongue to speak of you. In
your mercy confer on me a conversation pleasing to you, the patience to wait for you, and the
perseverance to long for you. Grant me a perfect end - your holy presence. Amen.
St. Benedict (born at Nursia, Italy, in 480) had a profound veneration for the holy Cross and for
our Savior Crucified. In virtue of the Sign of the Cross, he wrought many miracles and exercised
great power over the spirits of darkness. In consequence of the great veneration in which St.
Benedict was held from the early Middle Ages, it followed that a Medal was struck, one side of
which represents St. Benedict holding the Cross in one hand and the Holy Rule in the other.
Around the image of St. Benedict are these words in Latin: "May his presence protect us in the
hour of death."
St. Benedict has ever been the patron of the dying, because of the circumstances attending his
own most glorious death, for he breathed forth his soul while standing in prayer before the Most
Blessed Sacrament.
The reverse of the Medal shows the image of the Cross. Around the margin are the initials of
Latin words which form verses supposed to have the originated with the holy Father Benedict
himself. The English translation is: "Begone Satan! Suggest not to me thy vain things. The cup
thou profferest me is evil; drink thou thy poison." In the angles formed by the arms of the Cross
are the letters C.S.P.B., signifying "Cross of the holy Father Benedict." The letters on the Cross
itself have this meaning: "May the holy Cross be my light; let not the dragon be my guide."
Use
No special way of carrying or applying the Medal is prescribed. It may be worn around the neck,
attached to the scapular or the Rosary, or otherwise carried about one's person.
Often it is placed in the fields, the foundations of buildings or attached to automobiles to call
down God's blessing and the protection of St. Benedict. No particular prayer is prescribed as the
devout wearing itself is a continual silent prayer.
Purposes of the Medal
The medal of St. Benedict is the most highly indulgenced medal in the Catholic Church. When
the exorcism blessings are applied by a Benedictine Priest, the medal has power over evil:
storms, poisons, pestilence, the devil's legions, etc. You must use the medal by calling down the
intercession of St. Benedict. (Use by dipping in liquids, placing on/in important machinery,
structures, etc.)
On many feast days of Our Lord, the Blessed Mother, the Apostles, and many saints, it is
possible to gain a plenary or partial indulgence by carrying or wearing the medal; invoking the
intercession of St. Benedict; and, praying for the abolishment of heresy.
The following is a partial list of the many pious purposes of the Medal of St. Benedict:
1. It wards off from both the soul and body all dangers arising from the devil.
2. The Medal is powerful in obtaining for sinners the grace of conversion.
3. It obtains protection and aid for persons tormented by the evil spirit, and in temptations
against holy purity.
4. It procures assistance in the hour of death.
5. It has often proved an efficacious remedy for bodily sufferings, and a means of protection
against contagious diseases.
6. Expectant mothers have obtained special assistance for a safe delivery.
7. In time of storms, tempests and other dangers on land and sea it has been found to be a
protection.
8. Even domestic animals have been visibly aided by it when infected with disease.
"Jesus, Mary, I love You, Save Souls"
MEDAL OF ST. BENEDICT
The medal of St. Benedict, propagated anywhere in the world for more than 300 years, especially by the
Benedictine monks, has been famous by its extraordinary effectiveness against the demon and his manifestations; in
the defense against curses of all sort, against diseases, specially the contagious ones, against snake bites and other
animals; in the protection of domestic animals, vehicles, etc.
Repeated times approved and praised by the Popes, the medal of St. Benedict, that unites the exorcizing
strength of the Holy Cross of the Redeemer - the sign of our salvation - the memory of the merits reached about the
great sanctity of the great Patriarch St. Benedict, without a doubt is very indicative for the catholic devotees.
The IMAGE OF THE CROSS IN THE MEDAL
It is sufficient for the Christian to briefly consider the sovereign virtue of the Cross of Jesus Christ, to
understand the dignity of a medal wherein it is represented.
The Cross awakes in us feelings of gratitude towards God, for the benefit of our salvation.
The Cross causes terror to the malignant spirits, who always back down before her, and as soon as they see
it they abandon its prey and flee. Thus, our medal, that represents in the first place the image of the Cross, is in
perfect harmony with the Christian mercy, and if only for this reason, it is already worthy of greater respect.
THE IMAGE OF ST. BENEDICT REPRESENTED IN THE MEDAL
The honor to appear in the same medal along with the image of the Holy Cross was granted to St. Benedict
with the purpose of indicating the effectiveness that it had in his hands this sacred signal. St. Gregory the Great,
who wrote the life of the Saint Patriarch, represents it dissipating his own temptations with the sign of the Cross, and
breaking with it the chalice containing a poisoned drink, thus leaving perverse evidence of those that had dared to
attempt against his life. When the malignant spirit, to terrify the monks, makes them see their Montecasino
Monastery in flames, St. Benedict vanishes the diabolic vision, making the sign of the Cross of our Savior on the
fantastic flames. When his disciples are inwardly tempted by the suggestions of the tempter, he indicates as the best
solution to make the sign of the Cross on their hearts. From it all, it can be concluded that it was very advisable to
join in a single medal the image of the St. Patriarch and that of the Cross of the Savior.
This is still more evident when considering that both great disciples of the servant of God, St. Placid and St.
Maurus, when they made their frequent miracles were in the habit of invoking the assistance of the Holy Cross, the
name of its saintly Founder, and thus they consecrated, from the beginning, the pious custom expressed later in the
medal.
THE CHARACTERS THAT APPEAR IN THE MEDAL
In addition to the images of the Holy Cross and St. Benedict, the medal also has certain letters, each one
representing a word in Latin. The diverse reunited words have a sense that indicate the intention of the medal: to
express the relationship that exists between St. Patriarch Benedict and the Holy Cross; and at the same time, to avail
the faithful an effective means to use the virtue of the Holy Cross against the malignant spirits.
Those mysterious letters are on the side of the medal where the Holy Cross is represented. Let us examine,
in the first place, the four placed between the arms of this Cross:
C
S
P
B
They mean: Cross Sancti Patris Benedicto; in Castilian, Cross of Holy Father Benedict. Those words
explain what the medal represents.
In the vertical line de la Cruz it reads:
C
S
S
M
L
Which stands for: Sacred cross sit mihi lux; in Castilian, Let the Holy Cross be my Guide.
In the horizontal line of the same Cross, it reads:
N. D. S. M. D.
Which stands for: Non Draco sit mihi dux; in Castilian, Do not allow the dragon be my guide.
Joining those two lines a pentameter verse is formed, by means of which the Christian expresses his
confidence in the Holy Cross, and his resistance to the yoke that the demon would want to impose on him.
Around the medal there is one more extensive inscription, that in the first place shows the most holy name of
Jesus, expressed by the well known monogram: I. H. S. (In the better known monogram of the Medal of St.
Benedict, I. H. S. was replaced by the Benedictine motto PAX; in Castilian, Peace). Thereafter, from right to left,
the following letters:
V. R. S. N. S. M. V. S. M. Q. L. I. V. B.
These initials represent the following two verses:
Vade retro satana; nuncuam suave mihi vana
Sunt mala quae libas; ipse venena bibas.
Which in Castilian mean: Step aside, Satan; never advise me of your vanities, the drink that you offer is evil:
you yourself drink you own poisons.
Such words were assume to have been said by St. Benedict: those of the first verse, during the temptation that
he felt and over which he prevailed by making the sign of the Cross; those of the second verse, at the moment when
his enemies presented him with a deadly drink, which was discovered when he blessed with the sign of life the
chalice that contained it.
The Christian can use these words at all times when assaulted by temptations and insults of the invisible
enemy of our salvation. The same Jesus Christ Our Lord sanctified the words Vade retro, satana – Move aside,
Satan - and its value is certain, once the Gospel assures us of it. The vanities that the demon advises us are the
disobediences to the law of God, the pomp and false principles of the world. The drink that the angel of darkness
presents to us is sin that brings death to the soul. Instead of accepting it, we give it back so unfortunate present to
him, since he himself chose it as his patrimony.
It is enough that somebody pronounces with faith such words, to feel immediately with forces to face all the
attacks of hell. Even though we would not know the facts that show to what extent Satan fears that medal, the
simple consideration of what it represents and what it express, it would be enough so that we considered it one of the
most powerful arms than the kindness of God put in our reach against the diabolical malice.
USE OF THE MEDAL OF ST. BENEDICT
We do not ignore that in this century many people consider that the demon is rather an imaginary and non
real being; and thus, it can seem strange that a medal is coined and blessed, used as protection against the attacks of
the malignant spirit. Nevertheless, the sacred Scriptures offer innumerable passages that give us an idea of the
power and the activity of the demons, as well as to the dangers of the soul and body that we are continuously
exposed due to their tireless efforts. In order to annihilate their power it is not only enough to ignore the demons
and to smile when we hear about their operations. The air will not stop from being contaminated with legions of
evil spirits, as taught by St. Paul; and if God did not protect us, even when we are not aware of it, by the ministry of
the Holy Angels, it would be for us impossible to avoid the innumerable pitfalls of these enemies of all creatures of
God.
However, the power of the Holy Cross against Satan and its legions is such, that we can consider it an
impenetrable shield that makes us invulnerable to its attacks.
We thus conclude how advantageous it is to use with faith the medal of St. Benedict whenever we most fear
the attacks of the enemy. Its protection, we should not doubt it, will be effective against all type of temptations.
Numerous and undeniable facts indicate its powerful aid in thousands of circumstances in which, or by spontaneous
action of Satan, or by the effect of some curse, the faithful were on the verge of succumbing before an imminent
danger. We will also be able to use it in favor of others, like means of preservation or liberation, to confront
oncoming perils.
Often unexpected accidents threaten us, on land or sea; if full of faith we carry with us the medal, we will
be protected. There are no human life circumstances, no matter its nature, whereby through the intervention of the
Holy Cross and the power of St. Benedict. Thus evil spirits, in their hatred against mankind, attack domestic
animals in their service; attack the foods we eat; their evil interventions are the result of many maladies that affect
us; now then it has been proven that the use of the medal accompanied by prayer directly stops the evil attacks, and
bring a noticeable relief to maladies, and at times, even a complete cure.
PRAYER TO REQUEST THE PROTECTION OF ST. BENEDICT
Most Holy Confessor of the Lord; Father and head of the monks, intercede with your sanctity for our
health of soul, body and mind.
Liberate from our life, our house, the malfeasances of the malignant spirit. Free us from unfortunate
heresies, foul gossip and witchcraft.
Ask the Lord to remedy our spiritual and corporal necessities. Also ask for the progress of the holy
Catholic church; and because my soul does not die in mortal sin, so that thus trusted in Your powerful intercession,
can someday in heaven, sing eternal praises. Amen.
Jesus, Maria and Jose I love you, save lives, nations and souls.
Pray three Our Fathers, Hail Maries, and Glory be.
BRIEF NOVENA TO REQUEST A GRACE
Pray during nine days consecutive the following prayer:
Oh St. Benedict, my kind protector and of those that go to you during their hardships. Intercede on my behalf to
God so that my sorrows and pains that now burden me are alleviated.
(request desired grace here)
I request it with full confidence.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be.
Go up
The following two prayers to St. Benedict are recited by the monks of Most
Holy Family Monastery every day. We recommend them to others as well. St.
Benedict is an extremely powerful intercessor for us in Heaven. St. Benedict,
born in 480 A.D., was the founder of western monasticism and is renowned
for his power against the Devil. St. Benedict was also a great miracle worker,
as many books document. In particular, we recommend The Life of St.
Benedict by Pope St. Gregory the Great. He is a powerful patron that we need
today when impurity, apostasy and infidelity inundate the earth. St. Benedict
died March 21, 543, as he stood before the altar of Monte Cassino
immediately after receiving Holy Communion. St. Benedict is easily one of the greatest saints of
all time.
Prayer to St. Benedict for a Happy Death
"O holy Father, St. Benedict, blessed by God both in grace and in name, who, while standing in
prayer, with hands raised to heaven, didst most happily yield thy angelic spirit into the hands of
thy Creator, and hast promised zealously to defend against all the snares of the enemy in the last
struggle of death, those who shall daily remind thee of thy glorious departure and heavenly joys;
protect me, I beseech thee, O glorious Father, this day and every day, by thy holy blessings, that I
may never be separated from our dear Lord, from the society of thyself, and of all the blessed.
Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen."
St. Benedict himself revealed to St. Gertrude - also one of the greatest saints in the history of the
Catholic Church, and herself a Benedictine nun - that "whoever reminds me of the extraordinary
privilege with which God deigned to glorify my last moments, shall experience my particular
assistance in his final combat. I will be a faithful protector against the assaults of the enemy.
Fortified by my presence, he will escape the snares of the evil one and safely attain eternal
happiness."
Novena to St. Benedict
"O Glorious St. Benedict, sublime model of all virtues, pure vessel of God's
grace! Behold me, humbly kneeling at thy feet. I implore thy loving heart to pray
for me before the throne of God. To thee I have recourse in all the dangers which
daily surround me. Shield me against my enemies, inspire me to imitate thee in
all things. May thy blessings be with me always, so that I may shun whatever
God forbids and avoid the occasions of sin."
"Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces of which I stand so much in need, in
the trials, miseries and afflictions of life. Thy heart was always so full of love, compassion, and
mercy towards those who were afflicted or troubled in any way. Thou didst never dismiss
without consolation and assistance anyone who had recourse to thee. I therefore invoke thy
powerful intercession in the confident hope that thou will hear my prayers and obtain for me the
special grace and favor I so earnestly implore (mention it), if it be for the greater glory of God
and the welfare of my soul."
"Help me, O great St. Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to be
ever submissive to His holy will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven.
Amen."
Prayers to St. Benedict, Patron Against Poisoning, Patron of Religious to
Filled With the Spirit's Power
Admirable Saint and Doctor of Humility, you practiced what you taught,
assiduously praying for God's glory and lovingly fulfilling all work for God
St. Benedict
Cross
This beautiful
cross is designed
especially for
those devoted to
St. Benedict.
and the benefit of all human beings. You know the many physical dangers that surround us today
often caused or occasioned by human inventions. Guard us against poisoning of the body as well
as of mind and soul, and thus be truly a "Blessed" one for us. Amen.
Dear St. Benedict, you are a "blessing" indeed, as your name indicates.
Practicing what you preached, you founded the monastic tradition of the West by joining prayer
to labor for God---both liturgical and private prayer. Help all religious to follow their Rule and be
true to their vocation.
May they labor and pray for the world to the greater glory of God. Amen.
Glorious St. Benedict, sublime model of virtue, pure vessel of God's grace! Behold me humbly
kneeling at your feet. I implore you in your loving kindness to pray for me before the throne of
God. To you I have recourse in the dangers that daily surround me. Shield me against my
selfishness and my indifference to God and to my neighbor. Inspire me to imitate you in all
things. May your blessing be with me always, so that I may see and serve Christ in others and
work for His kingdom.
Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces which I need so much in the trials,
miseries, and afflictions of life. Your heart was always full of love, compassion, and mercy
toward those who were afflicted or troubled in any way. You never dismissed without
consolation and assistance anyone who had recourse to you. I therefore invoke your powerful
intercession, confident in the hope that you will hear my prayers and obtain for me the special
grace and favor I earnestly implore (mention your favor).
Help me, great St. Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to run in the sweetness of
His loving will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven. Amen.
Novena to St. Benedict
Glorious St. Benedict who taught us the way to religious perfection by the
practice of self-conquest, mortification, humility, obedience, prayer, silence,
retirement and detachment from the world, I kneel at your feet and humbly beg
you to take my present need under your special protection (mention here).
Vouchsafe to recommend it to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the
throne of Jesus. Cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted. Above
all, obtain for me the grace to one day meet God face to face, and with you and
Mary and all the angels and saints to praise Him through all eternity. O most powerful Saint
Benedict, do not let me lose my soul, but obtain for me the grace of winning my way to heaven,
there to worship and enjoy the most holy and adorable Trinity forever and ever. Amen.
Pray 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary, and 1 Glory Be.
The Litany of St. Benedict
Lord, have mercy on us, Christ, have mercy on us.
God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Spirit, Have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, Pray for us.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, Pray for us.
Holy Father, Saint Benedict, Pray for us.
Father most reverend, Pray for us.
Father most renowned, Pray for us.
Father most compassionate, Pray for us.
Man of great fortitude, Pray for us.
Man of venerable life, Pray for us.
Man of the most holy conversation, Pray for us.
True servant of God, Pray for us.
Light of devotion, Pray for us.
Light of prayer, Pray for us.
Light of contemplation, Pray for us.
Star of the world, Pray for us.
Best master of an austere life, Pray for us.
Leader of the holy warfare, Pray for us.
Leader and chief of monks, Pray for us.
Master of those who die to the world, Pray for us.
Protector of those who cry to thee, Pray for us.
Wonderful worker of miracles, Pray for us.
Revealer of the secrets of the human heart, Pray for us.
Master of spiritual discipline, Pray for us.
Companion of the patriarchs, Pray for us.
Equal of the prophets, Pray for us.
Follower of the Apostles, Pray for us.
Teacher of Martyrs, Pray for us.
Father of many pontiffs, Pray for us.
Gem of abbots, Pray for us.
Glory of Confessors, Pray for us.
Imitator of anchorites, Pray for us.
Associate of virgins, Pray for us.
Colleague of all the Saints, Pray for us.
St. Benedict
Jubilee Medal
Saint Benedict
stands on a pedestal,
a shepherd’s crook
in his arm, holding
the cross of Jesus in
his right hand and
his famous Rule in
his left. On his right
side we see the
poisoned cup that
could not kill him,
and on his left an
image of the raven
that fed him.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.
V. Intercede for us, O holy father Saint Benedict,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let Us Pray: O God, Who hast called us from the vanity of the world, and Who dost incite us to
the reward of a heavenly vocation under the guidance of our holy patriarch and founder, Saint
Benedict, inspire and purify our hearts and pour forth on us Thy grace, whereby we may
persevere in Thee. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Prayer To St. Benedict
O glorious St. Benedict, sublime model of all virtues, pure vessel of God's
grace! Behold me, humbly kneeling at thy feet. I implore thy loving heart to pray
for me before the throne of God. To thee I have recourse in all the dangers which
daily surround me. Shield me against my enemies, inspire me to imitate thee in
all things. May thy blessing be with me always, so that I may shun whatever
God forbids and avoid the occasions of sin.
Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces of which I stand so
much in need, in the trials, miseries and afflictions of life. Thy heart was always
so full of love, compassion, and mercy towards those who were afflicted or
troubled in any way. Thou didst never dismiss without consolation and assistance any one who
had re-course to thee. I therefore invoke thy powerful intercession, in the confident hope that
thou wilt hear my prayers and obtain for me the special grace and favor I so earnestly implore
(mention it), if it be for the greater glory of God and the welfare of my soul.
Help me, O great St. Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to be ever submissive to
His holy will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven. Amen.
Benedictine Mission House
P. O. Box 528
Schuyler, Nebraska 68661
Saint Benedict Cross
HE SAINT BENEDICT CROSS / CRUCIFIX
Saint Benedict had a deep love for the cross as the encompassing symbol of faith
in God Jesus and the Spirit and his devotion to Christianity and his Zealous call
to bring the light and spirit of God to everyone in his path.
For St Benedict the Cross of Jesus is the symbol of Jesus way that he lived when
he walked with us in the flesh on earth, death to the self-ego and
rebirth/resurrection in the spirit of God.
Saint Benedict was a believer in humble obedience to God's holy will. With the cross at his side
St Benedict dedicated his life to bring the light of Jesus to nations and bring them out of the
darkness of paganism.
There are numerous accounts of miracles Saint Benedict worked with the sign of the cross. The
Cross saved benedicts life when a group of monks tried to poison him. Saint Benedict made the
sign of the cross over the cup, the cup shattered, made the poison useless as it spilled on the
floor.
Saint Benedict used the Cross to dispel evil and exorcise demons. The cross of St Benedict is still
the most used instrument used by exorcists to set the victims of demons free.
The saint Benedict cross is a constant reminder for Christians to reject evil temptations, strive to
perform good works, exorcise true charity and justice toward all. It is a reminder of Jesus calling
to take up our Cross and follow him on the path of love, compassion and unity. To follow the
"true King, Christ our Lord" and not the lord of culture and convention. To be on the side of
justice and bring forth the Kingdom of God.
The Saint Benedict Cross symbolizes this by the inscriptions on
the medal.
Crux S. Patris Benedict
(The Cross of our Holy father Benedict.)
Crux in Obitu Nostro Praesentra Muriamur
(May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of death!)
St Benedict died a happy death at Montecassino while standing with his arms
raised up to heaven, supported by the brothers of the monastery, shortly after he
received Communion. Saint Benedict is the patron of Happy Death.
Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux! Nun Quam Draco Sit Mihi Dux! (May the Holy Cross be my light!
May the dragon never be my guide!) Light is a symbol of wisdom and the Cross is a symbol of
Wisdom of God shining the way on the path of Jesus and God. The dragon is a symbol of ego
culture and convention. This means never to let the lord of conventional views rule our beliefs
and dim the wisdom of God.
Pax (peace)
Peace is wholeness and unity. This means that like Jesus, we should strive to always have love
and compassion for others and always to be on the side of justice for all.
The Saint
Benedict Cross
fratures the very
special St.
Benedicts
Crucifix Medal
on the front and
back side of the
cross.
rayer to Saint Benedict
Admirable Saint and Doctor of Humility, you practiced what you taught, assiduously praying for
God's glory and lovingly fulfilling all work for God and the benefit of all human beings. You
know the many physical dangers that surround us today, often caused or occasioned by human
inventions. Guard us against poisoning of the body as well as of mind and soul, and thus be truly
a "Blessed" one for us. Amen.
Prayer to Saint Benedict
Glorious Saint Benedict, sublime model of virtue, pure vessel of God's grace! Behold me humbly
kneeling at your feet. I implore you in your loving kindness to pray for me before the throne of
God. To you I have recourse in the dangers that daily surround me. Shield me against my
selfishness and my indifference to God and to my neighbor. Inspire me to imitate you in all
things. May your blessing be with me always, so that I may see and serve Christ in others and
owrk for His kingdom.
Graciously obtain for me from God those favors and graces which I need so much in the trials,
miseries and afflictions of life. Your heart was always full of love, compassion and mercy toward
those who were afflicted or troubled in any way. You never dismissed without consolation and
assistance anyone who had recourse to you. I therefore invoke your powerful intercession,
confident in the hope that you will hear my prayers and obtain for me the special grace and favor
I earnestly implore. {mention your petition}
Help me, great Saint Benedict, to live and die as a faithful child of God, to run in the sweetness
of His loving will, and to attain the eternal happiness of heaven. Amen.
Prayer for the Gifts to Seek God and Live in Him
Father, in your goodness grant me the intellect to comprehend you, the perception to discern you,
and the reason to appreciate you. In your kindness endow me with the diligence to look for you,
the wisdom to discover you, and the spirit to apprehend you. In your graciousness bestow on me
a heart to contemplate you, ears to hear you, eyes to see you, and a tongue to speak of you. In
your mercy confer on me a conversation pleasing to you, the patience to wait for you, and the
perseverance to long for you. Grant me a perfect end - your holy presence. Amen.
