July 11 is the Feast of St. Benedict, Father of Western Monasticism. Across the Catholic world, countless faithful wear the Medal of St. Benedict. But few know the rich theology contained in this remarkable sacramental. The medal is not a charm or talisman. Like every sacramental of the Church, its power comes from Christ, who works through the prayers of the Church and the faith of those who use it with devotion. The front depicts St. Benedict holding the Cross and his Rule. Beside him are the shattered cup, recalling the poison that broke when he blessed it, and the raven carrying away a poisoned loaf, preserving him from a second attempt on his life. Around the edge is the prayer: “May his presence strengthen us in the hour of our death.” The reverse bears a large Cross surrounded by the initials of ancient Latin prayers: CSPB - The Cross of our Holy Father Benedict CSSML - May the Holy Cross be my light NDSMD - Let not the dragon be my guide Around the border is the prayer: “Begone, Satan. Never tempt me with your vanities. What you offer is evil. Drink the poison yourself.” At the bottom is one word: PAX - Peace. The present form of the medal was approved by Pope Benedict XIV in 1742, though its use goes back much earlier in the Benedictine tradition. According to a longstanding tradition, the medal became widely known after a nobleman named Brunone was miraculously healed through the intercession of St. Benedict. He later became a Benedictine monk and was eventually elected Pope Leo IX. The Medal of St. Benedict reminds us that the Christian life is lived beneath the sign of the Holy Cross, in steadfast resistance to evil, and in the peace of Christ. St. Benedict, pray for us. - @cruxstationalis