The St. Benedict medal is a Catholic sacramental associated with protection against evil, resistance to temptation, and a holy death. Its central message is trust in Christ’s Cross, with St. Benedict’s intercession.
When blessed, it serves as a sacred sign that draws us toward God through the Church’s prayer. Its power comes from God; wearing it does not automatically guarantee protection. That distinction follows the Catechism’s teaching on sacramentals and superstition (CCC 1670, 2111).
The letters are initials of Latin prayers:
| Letters | Latin | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| C S P B | Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti | The Cross of our 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 | May the dragon never be my guide |
The dragon represents Satan.
Around the edge is a further prayer:
Vade retro Satana! Nunquam suade mihi vana! Sunt mala quae libas. Ipse venena bibas!
Its meaning is: Begone, Satan; do not tempt me with empty things. What you offer is evil; drink your own poison.At the top, PAX means peace. The firm rejection of evil serves the goal of living in Christ’s peace.
You can have the medal blessed by a priest or deacon, then wear it, attach it to your rosary, or keep it in your home. A fitting way to use it is to pray its words consciously when tempted: “May the holy Cross be my light.” The medal makes that commitment tangible in daily life.
Combed and ring-spun cotton is used in the solid colors; heather colors also contain polyester. This is a crew-neck tee, not a sweatshirt. Compare the length and width measurements below with a tee you already own to help choose your size.
- 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (heather colors contain polyester)
- Fabric weight: 4.2 oz (142 g/m2)
- Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
- Side-seamed
Size guide
| XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | |
| Length (inches) | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 |
| Width (inches) | 16 ½ | 18 | 20 | 22 | 24 | 26 |