The St. Benedict medal places an image of Saint Benedict on one side and a cross with abbreviated Latin prayers on the other. Understanding those letters helps distinguish the medal's Catholic devotional use from the idea of a lucky charm.
The image of Saint Benedict
The Jubilee Medal design shows Saint Benedict holding a cross and his Rule. The official Benedictine Confederation's history and explanation of the medal describes the cup and raven beside him and explains how devotion to the Cross shaped the design.
What the principal letters mean
- C.S.P.B.: Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti, the Cross of the 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.” Some versions translate the image as the devil or demon.
- V.R.S.N.S.M.V. and S.M.Q.L.I.V.B.: initials of a longer Latin prayer rejecting Satan and evil.
- PAX: peace.
The wording and placement can vary with the medal design. Compare both sides of the actual item; a tiny or decorative pendant may not reproduce every letter legibly.
How Catholics use the medal
The Benedictine explanation says there is no single prescribed way to carry it. It may be worn on a chain, attached to a rosary, kept in a pocket or placed in a home or car. Its purpose is devotional: a reminder of prayer and Christian discipleship.
It should not be presented as an object with automatic or magical power. USCCB catechetical material explains that religious medals are sacramentals; their use depends on faith and disposition rather than a mechanical result.
Does a St. Benedict medal need to be blessed?
A St. Benedict medal can be blessed by a priest or deacon; it does not have to be blessed by a Benedictine. A buyer should not assume a retail item has already been blessed. If a blessing matters to you, ask your parish how to arrange one after receiving the medal.
How to compare a medal before buying
- Check that the front and reverse shown match the design described.
- Confirm the diameter and whether the chain is included.
- Read the exact finish and base-metal disclosure for that item.
- Do not infer solid gold, silver or stainless steel from color alone.
- Follow the care instructions supplied for the specific construction.
Explore the San Benito collection by comparing the image, size and verified material of each available piece.
Choose a San Benito necklace
Compare St. Benedict medals, crosses, bracelets and necklaces. Each listing states the material, measurements, finish and whether a chain is included.